When comparing Miyajima Island vs Ishigaki Island, the Slant community recommends Miyajima Island for most people. In the question“What are the best cities to visit in Japan besides Tokyo and Kyoto?” Miyajima Island is ranked 4th while Ishigaki Island is ranked 9th. The most important reason people chose Miyajima Island is:
MIyajima is famous for freshly made maple leaf-shaped cake.
Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking
Pros
Pro Maple leaf cakes
MIyajima is famous for freshly made maple leaf-shaped cake.
Pro Wild deer
There are several locations in Japan populated by wild deer. Although Nara is most famous for them, Miyajima is a lesser-known deer city.
Pro Only floating shrine in all of Japan
Seeing the waves splash against the shrine is considered one of the Three Views of Japan. The location is also considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Pro Unique culture and history
Since Okinawa was originally a separate country from Japan, Ishigaki is one of the best ways to explore Okinawan culture. There are unique food, phrases, and styles of dress visible all over the island.
Pro 'Hawaii' of Japan
The second-largest island in Okinawa, there are long strips of beaches all around the island.
Cons
Con Crowded during the daytime
Miyajima is a popular day-trip location from tourists in Hiroshima, so there's quite a few people walking around town during the day. However, the last boat back to Hiroshima leaves prior to sunset, so watching the famous tori gate during the sunset will be far less crowded.
Con Requires a boat ride to get to
Since Miyajima is an island, you have to take a boat from Hiroshima to get to it.
Con Need a car to get around
While there is a bus and some taxis, the more efficient way to get around is by car. Renting a car will mean added costs, but it offers the most freedom to fully explore the island.
