Signature Image: 

Ms. Mitsui and Ms. Torii at the world treasure Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, Japan.

The Itsukushima Shrine was designed and built in the 12th Century by Taira no Kiyomori, one of the most powerful warlords of his time.

At high tide, the shrine appears to rise from the ocean, framed by a mountain view behind. It is currently part of Hatsukaichi-city, which is in close proximity to Hiroshima City. Because of this location, Hatsukaichi-city currently holds the second largest population of high radiation exposed survivors.

Itsukushima is known as “Nihon San Kei,” (one of Japan’s three most scenic spots). The shrine is registered as a national treasure due to its natural setting. 

Itsukushima’s magnificent coastal landscape is close in feel and spirit to the famous Mont Saint-Michel in France, which has resulted in friendship city status between Hatsukaichi-city and Mont Saint-Michel.

Today, blessed with an abundance of foods from the mountains and the sea, people who live around Itsukushima enjoy a contented life.

In this beautiful setting of Itsukushima, together with the people who value peace and culture, we plan to bring world leaders together in a musical event to celebrate peace in 2011.