Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Futami Okitama Shrine is an ancient shrine located in Futami-cho, Ise City, Mie Prefecture, and is a place where beliefs related to the sea and sunrise have been passed down since ancient times. Known as a place for purification rituals before visiting Ise Grand Shrine, its location overlooking the sea and the two Meoto Iwa rocks visible on the opposite shore create an iconic landscape. The Meoto Iwa rocks are made up of two rocks, a male and female, tied together with a shimenawa rope, and the beautiful view that can be seen at sunrise makes it a famous spot for watching the sunrise.
There are also many frog statues and votive plaques on the grounds and approach to the shrine, which are popular as lucky charms based on the pun meaning "return safely" or "your wishes will come true." The attraction is that you can feel the connection between the sea and faith through worship, photography, and strolling around the shrine.
Highlights
- Meotoiwa (Married Couple Rocks): A view of two rocks lined up in the sea, tied together with a shimenawa rope. It is a popular photo spot, especially at sunrise. The shimenawa rope is replaced regularly, and is quite impressive in both length and weight (said to weigh around several tens of kilograms).
- Sunrise viewing: The sunrise between the two rocks is exceptional. The view changes depending on the season and weather, and it is said to be especially beautiful around the summer solstice. We recommend visiting early in the morning.
- Frog statues and amulets: Within the grounds, there are various frog statues of different sizes and amulets for a safe return, which are popular as lucky charms for safe travels and finding love.
- Remnants of the old purification grounds: You can see the coastal scenery where worshippers once performed purification rituals before visiting Ise Shrine, and feel the traditions associated with the Shinto rituals that remain today.
- Omotesando and souvenir shops: There are many shops selling seafood and Ise specialties, so you can enjoy a stroll and a meal. There are many dishes and souvenirs made with shellfish in particular.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Sangu Line's Futamiura Station is the closest. It is about a 15-20 minute walk from the station (depending on the season and walking speed).
- From central Ise City: Take a Mie Kotsu bus bound for Futami from Ise-shi Station (Kintetsu/JR) or Ujiyamada Station, and get off at the Futami Okitama Shrine or Futamiura stop.
- Car/Taxi: Approximately 20-30 minutes from the Ise Expressway (Ise IC) via national and prefectural roads. There is a paid parking lot (limited space) around the shrine. It may fill up during peak seasons, so it is recommended to arrive early.
- Other: It is common to combine this with a sightseeing route to Ise Grand Shrine (Naiku and Geku) or Toba.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short visit (seeing the Meoto Iwa rocks and touring the grounds): about 30 to 45 minutes
- If you include taking photos, strolling, and buying souvenirs: Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes
- If you want to watch the sunrise or spend a relaxing morning: 1.5 to 2 hours or more, including before sunrise
Nearby spots
- Ise Grand Shrine (Naiku and Geku): Futami has a strong traditional connection as a place to visit before visiting Ise Shrine (about 20-30 minutes by car, bus route available).
- Toba (Mikimoto Pearl Island, Toba Aquarium, etc.): Approximately 20-30 minutes by car, this area is easy to combine with sightseeing by the sea.
- Restaurants and souvenir shops at Futami Sea Paradise and Omotesando: Enjoy local seafood and gourmet specialties.
- Ise town walking spots (Oharaimachi and Okage Yokocho): A popular area for sightseeing in Ise, convenient for food tours and souvenir hunting.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: It gets very crowded during New Year's visits to shrines, Golden Week, Obon, and long weekends. If you want to see the sunrise, we recommend arriving early.
- Tide levels and weather：As it is close to the sea, visibility and safety will change depending on the tide and weather. Please be careful not to go near the sea side during spring tides or stormy weather.
- MannersPlease pray quietly within the sacred grounds and take your trash with you when you leave. The Meoto Iwa Rocks are a natural feature, and it is prohibited to enter the rocks or touch the sacred ropes. Please follow the instructions of staff and any signs prohibiting entry.
- photograph: General photography is permitted, but please be mindful not to disturb other worshippers. Commercial photography and the use of drones may require prior permission.
- foot: The beach has some slippery areas. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. In winter, the road surface may freeze over in the early mornings, so be careful.
- Order of worshipFutami has historical significance as a place for purification before visiting Ise Grand Shrine, but nowadays you are free to visit. Please observe the proper shrine etiquette (washing your hands, two bows, two claps, one bow, etc.).
For a more comfortable visit, check the sunrise time, tide table, and traffic information in advance. The scenery of Meoto Iwa changes depending on the season and time of day, so it's recommended to visit with plenty of time to spare.
