Futami Okitama Shrine & Meoto Iwa
A Shinto shrine on the coast where two sacred rocks — the "Married Couple Rocks" (Meoto Iwa) — are joined by a shimenawa rope renewed three times a year. The large rock enshrines Amaterasu and the small rock her husband — a symbol of marriage, partnership, and renewal. The sunrise between the rocks on the summer solstice is a famous ritual.
30–60 min
Free
Shrine: 5:00–sunset; rocks always visible from the shore
Year-round (summer solstice sunrise is special)
Futaminoura Station on JR Sangu Line (10 min from Iseshi)
Location
Why Visit
- 1
Meoto Iwa — the "Married Couple Rocks" joined by a 35-metre shimenawa rope weighing over a tonne, replaced in ceremony each May, September, and December
- 2
Summer solstice sunrise rises directly between the two rocks — photographed for thousands of years
- 3
The shrine is attended by hundreds of frog statues — frogs (kaeru) signify "returning" and safe travels
Local Tips
The wedded rocks are joined by a hemp rope (shimenawa) renewed three times a year in ceremony. Summer solstice sunrise (around June 21) aligns perfectly between the rocks — a spectacular and popular event. The shrine is a required stop for pilgrims heading to Ise Grand Shrine, 15 minutes away by train.
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