When can you walk under the Great Torii?
When the tide falls below about 100 cm, the seabed in front of Itsukushima Shrine is exposed and you can walk out to the gate. That happens for a few hours around low tide — check today's window or the calendar for your dates.
Can I walk to the torii gate today?
Check the front page — it answers exactly that, and updates every day. If the tide is currently under 100 cm the seabed is open; if not, it shows the next window and when it closes.
What are the best dates to visit in the next year?
See the best days, which ranks every date in the next twelve months by how much walkable time falls inside normal visiting hours. Spring tide dates are the strongest: the deepest low tide and the highest evening tide land on the same day.
Where does the tide data come from, and is it in English?
From the Japan Meteorological Agency's official predictions for Hiroshima, which are published in Japanese only. This site reads that data and presents it in English, updated daily. See about for the method and its limitations.
How long does the walkable window last?
Usually 2–4 hours centred on low tide. Spring tides (around new and full moon) give the longest windows; on neap tides the water may never drop low enough, and the gate stays afloat all day.
At what tide height does the torii "float"?
From roughly 250 cm the water surrounds the gate completely — the classic floating view. The very best photos usually come at the day's highest tide, especially under evening illumination.
Is walking on the seabed safe?
Yes, inside the window — the flats are firm sand and hundreds of people cross daily. Watch the incoming tide, follow local signage, and start back well before the window closes. Water returns faster than people expect.
Can you touch the torii?
You can — walking up and touching the pillars is part of the experience, and you'll spot coins pressed into cracks in the barnacled wood. Climbing on the structure is not permitted.
What should I wear?
Shoes you don't mind getting wet or sandy; the flats stay damp even at dead low tide. In summer there's zero shade out there — hat and water recommended.
Is the torii lit at night?
Every night from sunset until around 23:00. When a high tide coincides with the lights, you get the island's signature view — realistically an overnight guest's privilege, since day-trippers are already back in Hiroshima.
How accurate are these predictions?
Our times are based on the Japan Meteorological Agency's official tide predictions for Hiroshima Bay, the same source Japanese tide tables use. Strong wind or low pressure can raise actual levels. Use them for planning; use your eyes for safety.
Do I need to plan around the ferry too?
Barely — boats run every 10–15 minutes through the day. The tide is the schedule that matters. Ferry details, JR Pass coverage and the Peace Park direct boat are on the access page.