Miyajima History and Folklore Museum

The Miyajima History and Folklore Museum, on Miyajima Island, known as Itsukushima, is housed in a building from the Edo period, originally the home of a soy sauce merchant. Opened in 1974, the museum is dedicated to the history, traditions, and folklore of the island.

With a collection of over 2,000 items, including artifacts, documents, artworks, and religious items, the museum paints a picture of Miyajima’s past. Visitors can explore the merchant family’s living quarters and a Japanese courtyard garden to understand the Edo Period’s lifestyle. Each room in the museum reveals different aspects of local life, from boats used in ceremonies to everyday tools.

A highlight of the museum is its artifacts related to the Itsukushima Shrine and the island’s festivals, emphasizing Miyajima’s spiritual and cultural significance. The museum explores folk customs, beliefs, and legends native to the island.

Displays also include woodblock prints, maps, and artifacts from historical dramas about Taira no Kiyomori, who built the Itsukushima Shrine. A video presentation in Japanese provides context about the island’s landmarks.

The Miyajima History and Folklore Museum is a valuable resource for those interested in the island’s history and culture, serving as a foundation for visitors to experience Miyajima’s temples, shrines, and natural beauty.