The huge red torii emerging from the waves against the background of a sandy beach is one of the emblems of Japan, prompting many tourists to come to this sacred Shinto island, as does its World Heritage Site status. Nobody can be born here or die here (hence no maternity hospital or cemetery on the island) and its main gem, Itsukushima shrine, is partially built in the sea. Miyajima is also renowned for its woodland and secluded beaches.