#Japan #Cultural Heritage #Sea Salt #Miyajima

Miyajima Island Begins Salt Production: Introducing "Miyajima no Shio"

Miyajima Island, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Japan's three scenic views, is set to start its salt production business in July 2024. Fureimu Co., led by President Osamu Kawamoto, is embracing the rich heritage of this beautiful locale.

According to Kawamoto, the salt derived from the island's pristine seawater represents more than just a seasoning; it embodies significant cultural value. The commitment to using only Miyajima's seawater reflects a dedication to both its natural environment and traditional practices. Kawamoto has meticulously overseen every aspect of this project, from mastering salt production techniques to establishing manufacturing processes.

Honoring Tradition

For generations, the people of Miyajima have practiced “Shio-kumi”, a tradition of purifying their homes with seawater. Salt, born from this marine environment, is a symbol of connection to the island's way of life and culture. The "Miyajima no Shio" brand aims to reinterpret this cultural essence, blending it with contemporary lifestyles through two primary focuses: food and lifestyle products. Their mission is to create a unique souvenir that allows visitors to experience the island's nature and culture through all five senses.

Rebranding and Two Product Lines

From October 2025, the edible “Miyajima no Shio” will undergo a rebranding, introducing two types of salt: powdered salt and flake salt. By November 2025, Fureimu will launch the “Itsukushi Miso” series focusing on lifestyle themes.

Product Highlights

• - Miyajima Sea Salt: These two types of salt are designed to enhance various dishes, offering a gourmet touch to the dining experience. The powdered type boasts a smooth finish with highlighted umami and sweetness, while the flake salt offers a crunchy texture with a gentle, mellow melt in the mouth. It’s perfect as a culinary protective charm or a special gift for loved ones.

- Powdered Salt: ¥626 (tax included)
- Flake Salt: ¥734 (tax included)
- Release Date: Early October

• - Miyajima Goddess Cleansing Spray: Modeled after the three goddesses enshrined at Itsukushima Shrine—Tagori-hime, Tagitsu-hime, and Ichikishima-hime—this scented cleansing spray features fragrances of lemon, lily of the valley, and cherry blossom. Users can restore a positive mindset with every use.

- Fragrance Types: Tagitsu-hime (Lily of the Valley), Ichikishima-hime (Cherry Blossom), Tagori-hime (Lemon)
- Price: ¥1,265 (tax included)
- Release Date: November 28

• - Premium Moon Cycle Cleansing Salt: Central to the Itsukushi Miso series, special cleansing salts are created using seawater harvested on the full and new moon. Themed around integrating the moon’s rhythms into everyday life, these products celebrate the ancient symbols of purification and rebirth. The new moon salt promotes detoxification and new beginnings, while the full moon salt supports gratitude and fruition.

- Cleansing Salt (Powder and Flake) for purification and resetting surroundings
- Price: ¥2,200 (tax included)
- Expected Release: Early December

• - Limited Year-End Set: Collaborating with local artisans from the Miyajima Onisaki Kiln and Kobayashi Kazumitsu workshop, this exclusive set combines traditional crafts with Miyajima no Shio for a sacred embodiment of prayer and culture. Only five sets will be available for lottery sales this year, continuing with 25 sets each December thereafter.

- Price: ¥38,500 (tax included)

Looking Ahead

Fureimu has plans to open a flagship store in Miyajima in Spring 2026, located just a short walk from the ferry terminal and Itsukushima Shrine. This store will offer an expanded line of Itsukushi Miso products and exclusive items.

Additionally, Fureimu will be featured in travel magazines, including the January 2026 issue of Travel Yomiuri and a JTB Publishing guide on Miyajima and Onomichi set to release in March 2027.

Through these initiatives, Fureimu Co. aims to ensure that visitors to Miyajima can cherish the island’s prayers and nature through unique local products. For more information, visit Official Website.