A Matchmaking Journey at Mount Misen’s Lovers’ Sanctuary and the Eternal Flame Hall

Centered around Miyajima’s Mount Misen Lovers’ Sanctuary, this guide highlights the history and experiences of the Eternal Flame Hall (Reikido), the vow monument at Shishiiwa Station (Lion Rock), plus practical access tips and ways to avoid crowds. While keeping the original text and images, we share insider advice that helps couples plan romantic dates and sightseeing on Miyajima.

The “Lovers’ Sanctuary” – A Spot for Finding Happiness

The Lovers’ Sanctuary near the Misen Main Hall takes its name from the “Eternal Flame,” a sacred fire lit in 806 by the Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi (Kukai) during ascetic training. This flame has been kept alive for more than 1,200 years. In the Eternal Flame Hall, a large tea kettle simmers over the fire; the hot water is considered sacred and is said to aid recovery from illness. Paper cups are provided, and the water may look slightly brown due to its natural iron content.

We visited on a rare date last summer, and it felt especially meaningful knowing this flame also kindled the “Flame of Peace” at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park—making it a place where wishes for love and peace meet. You can dedicate ema (votive tablets) for matchmaking and love fulfillment, including heart-shaped ones perfect for couples to seal their vows.

The incense fragrance can linger on clothing, so if you’re sensitive to scent, choose outerwear accordingly. My eldest once told me, “Mom, your clothes smell like incense!”

To fully understand Mount Misen, you can learn in detail about its World Heritage status. The Lovers’ Sanctuary is part of this World Heritage designation.

The Lovers’ Sanctuary stands right beside Misen’s Main Hall, about a 20-minute walk from Shishiiwa Station. The sacred fire that Kobo Daishi tended in 806 still burns today as the “Eternal Flame,” more than 1,200 years later. Because of this, Misen’s Eternal Flame Hall is cherished as a heartwarming place to seek happiness and has been officially designated a Lovers’ Sanctuary.

Many visitors come hoping for its blessings. A friendly local told me you can drink the hot water boiled over the Eternal Flame at the summit for free—there’s even a legend that couples who share it will be bound together.

You can also check detailed information about the Lovers’ Sanctuary here. It’s packed with recommended spots for couples!

Misen’s Seven Mysteries: “Reikido”

The Reikido’s lamp is revered as a “mysterious flame that never goes out,” and a large kettle is always kept boiling inside the hall. The sacred water simmered here is believed to invite happiness and promote health and longevity. Part of its allure is that it’s available along the pilgrimage route, making it easy to experience during a Mount Misen visit. Even after reconstruction, the hall’s beams have been soot-darkened by centuries of smoke—a powerful, visual reminder of its long history.

You can dedicate ema here for love fulfillment or prayers for a good match. Writing your wishes together at the end of your visit makes the memory even more special. During busy seasons, lines form for worship; if you prefer a calmer atmosphere, go early in the morning. On weekdays, crowds tend to thin between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM.

Reikido houses an eternal, sacred flame. This fire is renowned as a source for the “Flame of Peace” at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, and it also lights bonfires used in New Year’s tondoyaki events across the region, where year-end decorations are burned.

Inside the hall, a large kettle rests over the everlasting flame. Water boiled here is regarded as sacred and said to be effective against many illnesses. People also say that visiting Reikido purifies the heart, dispels obstacles in love, and clears away worries—opening the way to a pure, sincere romance. The atmosphere is so serene it makes you instinctively stand a little straighter.

When I visited with my family, my second daughter whispered, “It feels kind of sacred.” Kids sense these things, don’t they?

How to Enjoy the Lovers’ Sanctuary

The nationwide Lovers’ Sanctuary initiative selects romantic spots ideal for proposals. On Mount Misen, in addition to Reikido, the ropeway terminus at Shishiiwa Station is designated a “Lovers’ Sanctuary Satellite,” with interactive vow-themed installations and small scenic nooks perfect for photos.

Following a gentle route—worship at Reikido → sip sacred water → dedicate votive tablets → head to the observation deck—makes for a satisfying experience and helps you find the most photogenic angles. The Seto Inland Sea looks completely different depending on tides, light, and weather. November three-day weekends become extremely crowded with autumn foliage seekers, so for dates, weekdays are best.

The Lovers’ Sanctuary Project officially designates 100 symbolic romantic locations across Japan, primarily at sightseeing sites, through a rigorous selection process. The wider goal is to link tourist regions and contribute to community vitality and solutions for Japan’s declining birthrate.

Launched on April 1, 2006, the project highlights proposal-worthy places nationwide as “Lovers’ Sanctuaries,” promoting each area’s unique charm while fostering regional collaboration. It’s a lovely reason to plan a memorable Miyajima date.

Actually older than Itsukushima Shrine! Daishoin Temple at the foot of Mt. Misen is also popular as a power spot.

Shishiiwa Station Lovers’ Sanctuary Monument

Shishiiwa Station, reached by the ropeway, doubles as a scenic viewpoint. Inside you’ll find the “Vow of Love” monument: red (female) and black (male) buttons face each other, and pressing them at the same time lights a central flame—a sweet little surprise for couples. For the broadest Seto Inland Sea vistas, try to sit on the left-hand side in the direction of travel; it’s a favorite trick for photography lovers on a Miyajima date.

The observation deck can be windy, so bring a hair tie or a light jacket. Ropeway return lines often grow in the afternoon; starting your descent early makes the ride smoother. Locals say, “Go up in the morning and come down before noon.”

This monument is designed as a playful moment for couples. My husband and I gave it a go—and loved it!

Face each other across this “Vow Fire,” gaze into each other’s eyes,
then press the red button together (for the girl) and the black button together (for the boy)!
Then, the “Vow Fire” will light up (quoted from the official website).

The striking white-and-red design gives it an almost wedding-like feel. It’s an irresistibly charming spot. On rainy days, Mount Misen can be nearly empty, making for a peaceful, romantic date even in drizzle.

If you’re looking for a memorable Hiroshima date spot, put this on your list. Enjoy a getaway that deepens your bond in Mount Misen’s lush nature. One note: the August 14 fireworks festival draws huge crowds—so big even locals avoid it!

Access to Miyajima and Travel Time

Access to Miyajima is by ferry only, operated by two companies: JR West Miyajima Ferry and Miyajima Matsudai Kisen. Both charge approximately ¥180 one way for adults. JR also runs the “Great Torii Route” that passes close to the Great Torii Gate. On the island, take the free shuttle bus from the Momijidani area to Momijidani Ropeway Station. From there, transfer from the loop-type ropeway (8-passenger) to the cross-type ropeway (30-passenger) to reach Shishiiwa Station.

Total ropeway travel time is about 14 minutes. From the station, it’s about a 20-minute walk to the Misen Main Hall and another 30 minutes to the summit. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring drinks. Locals all know this, but the JR ferry sails closest to the Great Torii Gate (outbound only). For a romantic date, JR is a great choice!

When you think of Miyajima, Itsukushima Shrine is a must! Many couples visit it together with the Lovers’ Sanctuary.

Crowd Management & Best Times

Autumn foliage season, Golden Week, Obon, and New Year’s (first sunrise) are especially crowded. Ropeway downhill lines tend to grow long in the afternoon, so an early start (around 8:30–10:00 AM) is more comfortable. Ferry terminals and Miyajimaguchi parking lots often fill during peak times—use public transportation or aim to arrive about an hour before your ferry departs.

Around May 5, nearby events can cause traffic jams on surrounding roads. Considering direct ferry services from Hiroshima or Kure can help avoid crowds. Late March to early April (spring break) is the busiest time of year, so couples wanting a relaxed visit may want to avoid that period.

Locals say the parking lot behind Momiji Honpo near Miyajimaguchi Station is often available before 8:00 AM. An early morning date is a lovely change of pace!

Pet & Accessibility Points

Pets are allowed inside Itsukushima Shrine’s main hall if carried or in a carrier (no walking). The ropeway is not barrier-free, so strollers and wheelchairs must be stored at Momijidani Station. Be mindful of safety on the island: wild deer are everywhere, so keep your dog away and watch for droppings.

Keep leashes short in autumn to prevent accidental contact. While many areas are wheelchair-accessible along gentle slopes, the mountain paths are steep. Plan your island route carefully to avoid overexertion.

Windmills from dollar stores work surprisingly well to keep deer away from kids—we use them to protect our little ones. Note that deer crackers were discontinued in 2019 for the animals’ health.

Tips for Enjoying the Misen Hike and Views

Besides the ropeway, Misen offers several hiking routes—Momijidani, Daishoin, Daigen, and Yuhi Kannon—each with different difficulty levels and durations. If you’re unsure about your stamina, a safe plan is to ride the ropeway up, then walk from Shishiiwa Station via the Main Hall and Reikido Hall to the summit. For the return, choose the ropeway or hike down depending on your energy.

The summit rewards you with a 360-degree panorama, and on clear days you can see far across the Seto Inland Sea. History fans will enjoy the viewpoint praised by statesman Ito Hirobumi. A Miyajima local tipped us off to a lesser-known cherry blossom spot around the Tahoto Pagoda, a favorite viewing area in mid-June.

For post-date dining, Omotesando Shopping Street is highly recommended! It’s packed with great street food options.

Q&A

Q. Can anyone drink the sacred water at Reikido Hall?

A. Paper cups are provided, and visitors can drink it for free. It contains iron and may appear brownish. There’s also a legend that couples who drink it together will be united.

Q. How do you light the “Oath Fire” at Shishiiwa Station?

A. Face each other and press the red and black buttons at the same time to light the central flame. The trick is to press them in sync!

Q. Which seats on the ropeway offer the best views?

A. The left-side window seats facing the direction of travel give you the widest view of the Seto Inland Sea. Aim for the left side for a picture-perfect date.

Q. How strenuous is the hike to the summit?

A. From Shishiiwa Station to the summit is a steep climb of about 30 minutes on foot. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water. Couples should plan for frequent breaks.

Q. What are the rules for bringing pets?

A. Pets are allowed at Itsukushima Shrine if carried or in a cage (no walking). Avoid contact with deer, watch for droppings, and keep pets on a short leash at all times.

Q. Which ferry to Miyajima should I choose?

A. Two companies operate ferries: JR and Matsudai. JR offers a route that passes close to the Great Torii Gate, popular for a close-up view. For dates, JR is a romantic pick.

Summary

Mount Misen’s Lovers’ Sanctuary is a special place where you can explore the Eternal Flame Hall, taste sacred water, enjoy the vow monument at Shishiiwa Station, and take in sweeping views of the Seto Inland Sea—all in one romantic route. Visit during off-peak times, and bring comfy shoes, a jacket, and drinks to create a calm, memorable day for two.

Check ferry and ropeway schedules before you go and keep your itinerary relaxed. My husband and I always say, “We should come back together again.” It really does make wonderful memories.

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