Take an elegant coffee break at Tenshinkaku, a scenic Miyajima cafe above Itsukushima Shrine

Tenshinkaku sits in the primeval forest behind Itsukushima Shrine on a hill where aristocrats once kept their villas. Nicknamed a “sky cafe” for its sweeping views, it is produced by the owner of the Itoji Coffee Group. My family visits at least once a month, and my husband insists “This is the best coffee in Miyajima!” Here you can savor aromatic, house-roasted specialty coffee while gazing out at the islands of the Seto Inland Sea and Miyajima’s historic landmarks from the same eye level. It is a beloved hideaway for travelers who want to step away from the crowds, slow down, and feel time stand still. If you’re wondering what to eat in Miyajima beyond grilled anago rice (local conger eel), this calm spot is perfect for a sweet break or a refreshing drink between sights.

Savor house-roasted coffee amid lush greenery — a truly special experience at “Tenshinkaku”

Tenshinkaku, where you can linger over tea time with breathtaking views of Miyajima including Senjokaku and the five-storied pagoda (Gojuto), is a salon-style branch produced by Itoji Coffee near Miyajima Pier. The cafe is tucked on a hill just behind Itsukushima Shrine. When we first visited last autumn, my younger daughter squealed with delight, “It’s like a cafe in the clouds!”

To reach “Tenshinkaku,” enter Itsukushima Shrine, continue straight, turn into the lane beside the shop at the end of the path, and climb the stairs that appear. A local told me these roughly 70 steps are nicknamed “the stairway to heaven.”

On sunny days, the wooden-deck terrace feels wonderfully open and airy. My husband handles the photos while I wrangle the kids, but this spot is enjoyable for both adults and children. Enjoying specialty coffee while feeling connected to nature is a true luxury. With no background music, the sounds of wind and birds let you fully immerse in Miyajima’s natural beauty.

The five-storied pagoda was under renovation when I visited, but the view was every bit as stunning as people say. My older daughter was so absorbed in taking photos that she snapped over 100 pictures. On a clear day, the terrace is especially refreshing.

Tenshinkaku charges a seat fee of 550 yen per person. I ordered Hiroshima lemon squash (330 yen including tax). I visited in early April when the weather was mild, and the chilled lemon squash — made with Hiroshima’s famous local lemons — was both refreshing and delicious.

The coffee (110 yen including tax) arrives in stylish tableware, with a smooth mouthfeel that highlights the richness of the deep roast. Both hot and iced are available at the same price, which is a nice touch. Among locals, the word is that “Tenshinkaku has better views than the Itoji main shop.”

At “Tenshinkaku,” food is kept simple: lemon cake (660 yen including tax) and cheesecake (660 yen including tax). If you’re after breakfast, light meals, or specialty coffee soft-serve, stop by Itoji Coffee near Miyajima Pier first.

After enjoying a leisurely cafe time at Tenshinkaku, souvenir shopping along Omotesando Shopping Street is recommended. The local favorite is deep-fried momiji manju! Momijido’s version is crispiest first thing in the morning.

As you can see in the photos, drinks are prepared with care, and the views make lingering here effortless. If you’re visiting Miyajima, include Tenshinkaku in your plans.

Information may change. Please check the official website for the latest details before visiting.

Overview and History of Tenshinkaku

Tenshinkaku is a salon-style cafe created by Mr. Sasaki of Itoji Coffee to bring an authentic specialty coffee experience to Miyajima. It opened just last year but has already become a “hidden gem scenic spot” among locals. Set on a Meiji-era villa site, the design thoughtfully incorporates original stone walls and mature trees. The name “Tenshinkaku” reflects the sense of looking up toward the heavens and feeling the soul cleansed; from the wooden deck, you can admire the five-storied pagoda and Senjokaku at nearly the same eye level. Beans are roasted in-house, with at least five profiles on offer, from light to dark roast. Sourcing focuses on Guatemala and Ethiopia with seasonal rotations, and coffee is hand-brewed by pour-over to draw out layered aroma and flavor.

After visiting Itsukushima Shrine, be sure to extend your stroll to Tenshinkaku. The World Heritage shrine has plenty of family-friendly highlights to enjoy.

Access & Directions

From Miyajima Pier, walk through Omotesando Shopping Street to the intersection in front of the former town hall. Slip into the narrow alley between Itoji Coffee Miyajima and the traditional tea house “Mizuha,” then climb the steep stone steps (about 70 in total) to reach the cafe. We once took a wrong turn and ended up on the back-mountain path… Google Maps may route you to the back of the mountain, so use “Itoji Coffee” as your landmark instead of the cafe name to avoid detours. If the incline is tough, take breaks and you will arrive in about 5–7 minutes. Strollers need to be folded and carried; staff can help bring them to the deck if you ask.

Strolling through Omotesando Shopping Street on your way is recommended. After 5:00 PM, the soft-serve stands are less crowded, so stop by on your way back.

Menu and Pricing System

There is an entrance fee of 500 yen upon entry, which is effectively waived when you order a drink or food. Options include drip coffee (660 yen), Hiroshima lemon soda (880 yen), and black tea (770 yen). You can add a cake set with cheesecake or Hiroshima lemon cake for an additional 660 yen plus the price of your drink. Dip-style coffee packs and roasted beans (900 yen per 100 g) are available as souvenirs. Several kinds of craft beer are also on hand, and many guests enjoy a drink while watching the sunset over the Seto Inland Sea.

If you get hungry, Shimauma Pan is also a great choice! All the locals know about it, but it’s still a hidden gem for tourists.

In-store atmosphere and facilities

The cafe offers around 30 seats inside and 20 on the terrace, for roughly 50 seats total. The calm interior features antique display shelves and handmade tableware, with bookstands for reading. All seats are non-smoking, and free Wi-Fi plus USB power outlets are available at some seats. Payment is accepted in cash or via major QR code services (PayPay, d Barai, etc.). Private bookings (15 people or more) and photo-shoot plans can be arranged on request.

Attractive views and location

From the wooden deck, the five-storied pagoda (a national treasure) and Toyokuni Shrine (Senjokaku) fill the view straight ahead, with the Seto Inland Sea, Miyajimaguchi, and the townscape off to the right. In spring, cherry blossoms frame the scenery; in autumn, vivid foliage glows against the pagoda. At dawn and dusk, the gradation of sea and mountains becomes almost dreamlike. The front row of the terrace is a popular social-media photo spot where you can shoot the landmarks from the same perspective. Even on rainy days, the lush greens viewed through the large windows make it worth visiting.

If you want to enjoy the scenery from Mount Misen as well, taking the ropeway to the summit is highly recommended. The round-trip ticket can be used for your return journey (valid for the same day only), making it a good deal.

Visiting Tips

The cafe opens around 1:00 PM, with last orders around 5:00 PM (subject to seasonal changes). Weekdays are relatively calm; 2:00–3:00 PM is a sweet spot for fewer crowds. On weekends and holidays, a small line may form before the 1:00 PM opening, so plan extra time. Late March, during spring break, is the busiest time of the year, so plan accordingly. In spring and autumn, the terrace is most comfortable; in summer, come for the cooler late afternoon breeze; in winter, enjoy the warmth of the stove and the aroma of freshly roasted coffee inside.

Don’t forget to try the classic momiji manju! Fujiya’s factory tour is available without a reservation.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

What are Tenshinkaku’s business hours?

As of 2025, hours are approximately 1:00 PM to 5:30 PM (last order at 5:00 PM). Hours may vary by season or for private events, so please check the official website for the latest information.

Is a seat fee required?

A 500 yen charge is applied upon entry, but this amount will be deducted if you order a drink or food.

Can I bring children?

Both the interior and terrace are accessible to children under school age. However, the stairs are steep, so please fold strollers at the entrance and consult staff for a smoother experience. When our younger daughter was small, we used a baby carrier.

Can I bring pets?

Small dogs are allowed on the terrace only. Please keep them on a leash and be considerate of other guests.

What payment methods are available?

In addition to cash, major QR code payments such as PayPay, d Pay, and Rakuten Pay are accepted. Credit cards and transportation IC cards are not accepted.

How long is the average stay?

Most guests relax and take in the view for 30–45 minutes. If you plan to take photos, we recommend allowing about an hour.

Summary

Tenshinkaku is a scenic cafe on a historic hill in Miyajima. Produced by the Itoji Coffee Group, it serves carefully selected, house-roasted specialty coffee and seasonal desserts with postcard-worthy views. The hidden location—reached via a steep stone staircase—the open sightlines to the five-storied pagoda and the Seto Inland Sea, and the antique-inspired interior all add to the appeal. The seating fee is effectively free with an order, and the cafe is welcoming to families with children and terrace-visiting pets, with handy cashless options. Drop by for a peaceful coffee break during your Miyajima sightseeing near Itsukushima Shrine.

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For those who want to learn more about Miyajima’s history, the Miyajima Treasure Hall is also recommended. You can view national treasures and important cultural properties up close.

For a deeper dive into Miyajima’s culture, the History and Folklore Museum is full of interesting exhibits. You’ll learn many things even locals don’t know.