Miyajima Ropeway Enjoy Ticket: Price, Tips & How to Buy

If you’re planning to ride the Miyajima Ropeway up to Mount Misen, there’s a combo ticket worth knowing about before you go. The Enjoy Ticket bundles a round-trip on the Miyajima Ropeway with a round-trip on the Miyajima Matsudai Ferry — all in one convenient, discounted pass. My family has used it several times, and it genuinely saves money, especially when you’re traveling with kids. Here’s everything you need to know: prices, where to buy it, how the journey works, and tips for making the most of your visit.

We Used the Enjoy Ticket on the Miyajima Ropeway — Here’s What Happened

I first heard about the Enjoy Ticket from a local friend, and honestly, it changed how we approach our Miyajima trips. It covers the round-trip ferry crossing from Miyajimaguchi to Miyajima — including the island visitor tax — plus round-trip rides on the Miyajima Ropeway, all for a single bundled price. During last year’s spring break trip, the savings were significant enough to treat the kids to lunch in the shopping street on the way back.

Here’s how the pricing breaks down:

Enjoy Ticket — Adult (middle school age and above): ¥2,100
(Saves ¥400 compared to buying separately: ropeway round-trip ¥2,000 + ferry round-trip ¥500 including visitor tax = ¥2,500)

Enjoy Ticket — Child (elementary school age): ¥1,100
(Saves ¥200 compared to buying separately: ropeway round-trip ¥1,000 + ferry round-trip ¥300 including visitor tax = ¥1,300)

Note that children below elementary school age may have different pricing conditions — worth confirming when you purchase. The savings add up quickly for a family, which is why locals tend to reach for this ticket automatically.

One practical tip from a local: if you’re driving to Miyajimaguchi, the parking area behind the “Momiji Honpo” shop tends to have space before 8:00 a.m. It’s not widely publicized, but it can save you a stressful search during busy periods.

The ropeway ride becomes even more meaningful when you know the story behind what you’re flying over. Mount Misen’s primeval forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right — well worth a read before you go.

Where to Buy the Enjoy Ticket

The Enjoy Ticket is sold only at the Miyajima Matsudai Ferry ticket window at Miyajimaguchi — look for the blue sign. It is not available on the island, so make sure to purchase it before you board the ferry.
Sales hours: 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Validity: 2 days, including the day of purchase

The two-day validity is genuinely useful. On one of our trips, it rained on the first day and we simply used the tickets the following morning instead. Having that flexibility takes the pressure off planning around unpredictable weather.

A note on the visitor tax: since October 2023, Miyajima has charged a ¥100 island visitor tax per person. This is already included in the ferry portion of the Enjoy Ticket, so there’s nothing extra to pay at the gate.

If you prefer to hike rather than ride, Mount Misen has three established hiking trails: the Omoto Course, the Daisho-in Course, and the Momijidani Course. That said, for families with young children or anyone who’d rather save energy for exploring the summit, the ropeway is the obvious choice.

Daisho-in Temple, tucked at the foot of Mount Misen, is actually older than Itsukushima Shrine — and it pairs beautifully with a ropeway visit. Here’s our guide to this fascinating spiritual site.

Riding the Miyajima Ropeway: What to Expect

The ropeway experience has two distinct sections, and both are worth enjoying. From Momijidani Station, small 8-person gondola cabins depart continuously on a loop system — similar to a ski lift, but enclosed. This section takes about 10 minutes to reach Kayatani Station, and the views open up gradually as you rise above the forested valley. My younger daughter shouted “It’s like flying!” somewhere around the midpoint, which felt about right.

To reach Momijidani Station, a free shuttle bus runs from the entrance of Momijidani Park — about a 20–30 minute walk from the ferry pier. Taking the shuttle saves time and energy, especially on busy days or with children.

The gondola section is smooth and stable. I tend to get motion sick easily, but I’ve never had any trouble on the ropeway. Small children have consistently been fine too, in my experience.

From Kayatani Station, you transfer to a larger cable car — a reversible tramway style that carries up to 30 passengers. This section runs approximately 4 minutes to the final stop, Shishiiwa Station, and climbs steeply through dramatic scenery. The UNESCO-listed primeval forest of Mount Misen and the islands of the Seto Inland Sea spread out below you.

From Shishiiwa Station, a roughly 30-minute walk leads to the summit of Mount Misen. Along the way, you’ll pass several significant sites: Misen Hondo (the main hall), Reikado (home to a sacred flame that has reportedly burned for over 1,200 years), Sankido, and the Misen Observatory. My older daughter photographed over 100 shots on our last visit — the views at Shishiiwa Station’s observation deck alone are worth the trip.

One unexpected bonus: rainy days on Mount Misen can be genuinely magical. The mist rolls through the ancient forest and the whole mountain feels like you have it to yourself. Pack waterproof footwear and a light rain jacket, and don’t automatically write off a cloudy forecast.

Please note that facility details, operating hours, and conditions are subject to change. Always check the latest information via official sources before your visit.

Enjoy Ticket Details: Pricing, Conditions, and Important Notes

The Enjoy Ticket is the most straightforward way to combine the Miyajima Ropeway and the Miyajima Matsudai Ferry into a single discounted purchase. Buy it at the Matsudai Ferry window at Miyajimaguchi before you board — it’s not sold on the island. The ticket is valid for two days including the purchase date, which gives you flexibility if the weather changes.

One important caveat: if the ropeway is temporarily closed for maintenance, or if high winds or lightning make operations unsafe, the ticket may not be available or usable on that day. Check the operating status before you leave home, especially if traveling during unpredictable seasons.

During peak periods, the ropeway may also operate a web reservation system, requiring advance booking for specific dates. The reservation calendar and last departure times shift with the seasons, so it’s worth checking the official website in the days leading up to your visit. The November autumn foliage three-day weekend in particular tends to be extremely busy — reservations during that window are essential.

Ferry services run frequently during the day, and additional boats are added during high-traffic periods. Note that the JR ferry (a separate operator from Matsudai) typically passes closer to the Great Torii on the outbound journey — a detail worth knowing if capturing that view from the water is a priority for you.

Miyajima is also home to a romantic hilltop sanctuary known as the “Lover’s Sanctuary.” If you’re visiting as a couple, the Enjoy Ticket makes a natural starting point for a memorable day out.

Step-by-Step Journey: From Miyajimaguchi to the Summit

1. Miyajimaguchi → Miyajima Ferry Pier (Ferry, ~10 minutes)

• Ferries run frequently throughout the day. Even if you miss one, the next usually departs within minutes — no need to rush.
• Strollers and wheelchairs are accommodated with staff assistance. If you’re traveling with a pram, the ferry staff are used to helping — just follow their guidance.

2. Ferry Pier → Momijidani Park Entrance (On Foot, 20–30 minutes)

• The walk passes through the Omotesando shopping street, which is a good opportunity to pick up snacks and drinks for the mountain. Stock up here — there’s no convenience store at the top.
• On rainy days, wear slip-resistant shoes. The stone paths can get slick, but walking slowly with children is perfectly fine — they tend to enjoy the deer encounters along the way.

3. Free Shuttle Bus → Momijidani Station

• The free shuttle bus departs from the Momijidani Park entrance and saves you a steeper uphill walk to the ropeway base. During busy periods, plan for one or two buses to pass before you board.
• Late March to early April (spring break season) is among the busiest times of year island-wide — factor in extra time if traveling then.

4. Momijidani Station → Kayatani Station (Gondola, ~10 minutes)

• Small 8-person gondola cabins run continuously. The views expand steadily as you gain altitude — a great stretch for photography.
• Standing on the right side of the cabin on the ascent typically gives you the best views of the Seto Inland Sea.

5. Kayatani Station → Shishiiwa Station (Large Cable Car, ~4 minutes)

• This section uses a larger reversible cable car carrying up to 30 passengers. The ride is smooth, with minimal swaying — generally fine even for those prone to motion sickness.

6. Shishiiwa Station → Mount Misen Summit (On Foot, ~30 minutes)

• Pace yourself and take breaks as needed — especially with young children. Bring water and sun protection; the summit can be exposed on clear days.
• Strollers are not practical on the mountain trail due to stairs and uneven terrain. A baby carrier is strongly recommended for families with infants or toddlers.

Tips for Families, First-Timers, and Seniors

• Traveling with children: Use the restrooms at the ferry pier before heading into the park. At the summit, hats and sun protection are important on bright days. Young children tend to be delighted rather than frightened by the ropeway — the views and the deer make the whole trip feel like an adventure.
• Senior visitors: The ropeway eliminates the most challenging elevation gain. For those who want a lighter itinerary, stopping at the Shishiiwa Station observation deck — rather than continuing to the summit — is a completely satisfying and scenic option.
• First-time hikers: A round-trip on the ropeway plus a short walk to the summit and back is a manageable and rewarding introduction to Mount Misen. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes with grip — dedicated hiking boots are ideal but not strictly necessary for the summit trail.
• Rainy day visits: Low cloud and mist transform Mount Misen’s primeval forest into something genuinely otherworldly. Visibility is reduced, but the atmosphere is extraordinary. Waterproof shoes and a rain jacket are essential; watch your footing on wet stone surfaces.

Sample Itineraries: Half-Day and Full Day

Half-Day Plan (4–5 hours)

• Miyajimaguchi → Ferry → Momijidani Park entrance → Shuttle bus → Ropeway → Shishiiwa Station observation deck
• Brief visit to Misen Hondo and Reikado (the Eternal Flame Hall) → Descend → Lunch and shopping in the Omotesando street → Ferry back

Full-Day Plan (6–7 hours)

• Morning: Ropeway to the summit, take your time at the observatory and sacred sites
• Afternoon: Visit Itsukushima Shrine and the Great Torii area, time your photos around the tide, explore the shopping street at a relaxed pace before the evening ferry

My family almost always does the half-day version. With two young kids in tow, it hits the sweet spot — exciting and memorable without exhausting everyone before lunch.

No Miyajima trip is complete without a visit to Itsukushima Shrine. After the ropeway, the shrine is a natural next stop — and the two make a perfect combination for a full day on the island.

Practical Information: Parking, Crowds, Accessibility, and Pets

• Parking at Miyajimaguchi: Lots fill quickly on holiday weekends. Arriving before 8:00 a.m. significantly improves your chances of finding a space. Using public transport from Hiroshima is often the more stress-free option.
• Crowds: The 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. window tends to bring the longest waits for the ropeway and shuttle bus. Getting an early start dramatically reduces waiting time. Weekdays between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m. are typically the quietest period. The fireworks festival on August 14th is a day even locals avoid — foot traffic on the island reaches extreme levels.
• Strollers and wheelchairs: Ferry staff assist with boarding and disembarkation. However, strollers and wheelchairs cannot remain in use on the gondola section of the ropeway — they must be checked in at the Momijidani Station office before boarding. Keep this in mind when planning how long you’ll need at each stage.
• Pets: Policies for bringing pets on the ferry and ropeway may change. Always confirm current rules directly with each operator before your visit. Also worth knowing: the sale of deer crackers (shika senbei) was discontinued in 2019 to protect the health of Miyajima’s wild deer population.

Photography Tips: Best Spots Along the Ropeway Route

• Inside the gondola: On the ascent, the right side of the cabin tends to offer the widest views of the Seto Inland Sea and its scattered islands. If you’re traveling with a photographer in the group, claim that side early.
• Shishiiwa Station observation deck: The view changes completely depending on weather and tide. On days with low cloud or morning mist, the scene becomes genuinely dramatic — worth the trip even if you go no further.
• Misen summit observatory: The light is warmest in the late afternoon, but wind can be strong — brace yourself against the railing if you’re shooting with a longer lens.

One local secret worth sharing: the 7-Eleven convenience store at Miyajima’s ferry pier is nicknamed “the most scenic convenience store in Japan” by locals. It’s a surprisingly good spot for a casual photo with the Seto Inland Sea as your backdrop.

After coming down from Mount Misen, the Omotesando shopping street is ideal for food and souvenirs. Soft-serve ice cream lines are noticeably shorter after 5:00 p.m. — a useful detail for those doing a longer day.

FAQ

Where can I buy the Miyajima Enjoy Ticket?

The Enjoy Ticket is sold exclusively at the Miyajima Matsudai Ferry ticket window at Miyajimaguchi — look for the blue signage at the counter. It is not available for purchase anywhere on Miyajima Island, so buy it before you board the ferry. Sales run from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

How long is the Enjoy Ticket valid?

The ticket is valid for two days, including the date of purchase. This makes it especially practical in uncertain weather — if conditions aren’t ideal on day one, you can simply use it the following day instead.

How long does the full Miyajima Ropeway experience take?

Allow roughly 10 minutes for the ferry, 20–30 minutes on foot (or a short shuttle bus ride) from the pier to the ropeway base, about 14 minutes total on the two ropeway sections, and approximately 30 minutes on foot from the upper station to the summit. Budget around 30 minutes at the top for sightseeing. Families with children should add extra time throughout. A half-day plan of 4–5 hours covers the ropeway and a relaxed return comfortably.

Do I need to make a reservation for the ropeway in advance?

During peak seasons, the ropeway may operate a web reservation system on select dates. The schedule for reservation-required days changes seasonally. Check the official Miyajima Ropeway website before your trip, particularly during autumn foliage season (mid-to-late November) and major holiday periods, when demand is highest.

What are the best and worst times to visit to avoid crowds?

Weekday afternoons — especially between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m. — tend to be the quietest window for the ropeway. The 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. slot is typically the busiest. Arriving early in the morning on any day gets you ahead of the crowds. Avoid the August 14th fireworks festival and November’s three-day autumn foliage weekend if crowds are a concern.

Can I bring a stroller or wheelchair on the ropeway?

Strollers and wheelchairs cannot be used on the gondola section of the ropeway. They need to be checked in at the Momijidani Station office before boarding. For infants and toddlers, a baby carrier is a practical alternative for the mountain section. Ferry boarding is stroller- and wheelchair-friendly, with staff available to assist.

Is the Miyajima Ropeway worth visiting on a rainy day?

Absolutely — though it’s a different kind of experience. Mist and low cloud rolling through the primeval forest on Mount Misen can look genuinely spectacular. Visibility from the observation deck will be lower, but the atmosphere more than compensates. Wear waterproof footwear, bring a light rain jacket, and take care on wet stone surfaces. Some visitors feel rainy days are their most memorable.

Summing Up: Is the Enjoy Ticket Worth It?

For anyone planning to ride the Miyajima Ropeway, the Enjoy Ticket is simply the smarter way to buy. You save money compared to purchasing the ferry and ropeway separately, the two-day validity adds weather flexibility, and having a single ticket for both legs of the journey means less time fumbling at windows and more time enjoying the views. Buy it at the Matsudai Ferry counter in Miyajimaguchi before you board, aim for an early start to stay ahead of the midday crowds, and make sure to check ropeway operating status and reservation requirements before you leave home.

Whether you’re heading up for the summit views, the ancient sacred sites, or simply the sensation of floating over one of Japan’s most beautiful landscapes, the Enjoy Ticket is the low-friction, high-value way to get there. My family visits Miyajima three or four times a year, and this ticket is part of every ropeway trip without question.

Please note that prices, operating hours, and service conditions are subject to change. Verify the latest information via the official Miyajima Ropeway and Miyajima Matsudai Ferry websites before your visit.

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