Miyajima (宮島), translated as "Shrine Island" is considered to be a sacred island because of the Itsukushima Shrine founded in year 593, which is dedicated to the maritime guardian goddess. The view of 'Floating Torii' has been a subject of numerous traditional woodblock reproductions, posters, booklets and postcards and it is considered to be one of the three most beautiful views in Japan (two others are Islands of Matsushima Bay and 'Bridge to Heaven' in Amanohashidate). The ropeway leads nearly to the summit of Mount Misen (the highest point of the island) - unfortunately I could not get to the summit (about 30 minutes hike), as trail was closed due to the very windy weather and a small landslide. Nevertheless, both the island and the views from the ropeway are too spectacular to describe in words...
Hiroshima (広島), known as the "City of Peace", is the largest city in the west of the Japanese mainland. Peace Memorial Park, Museum and Atomic Bomb Dome are only 15 minutes by the tram from the JR Station. Too many things were written and said about Hiroshima and a trip to Japan would be, in my opinion, incomplete without the visit there. Please note, however, that it is possible that the general atmosphere of the place, stories, photographs and items on the display in the Museum are likely to haunt your memories for the rest of your life... When you walk from Atomic Bomb Dome across the Aioi Bridge through the park towards the Museum - please do ring The Bell of Peace...