Futami Okitama Shrine

二見興玉神社

/ Futami Okitama Jinja

Admission
Free
Goshuin
300 yen
Access
15 min walk
Hours
Dawn to dusk

Overview

Futami Okitama Shrine is famous for the Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks), a pair of sacred rocks standing in the sea connected by a large shimenawa rope weighing over a ton. The larger rock represents the male (Izanagi), the smaller the female (Izanami), and together they symbolize the union of husband and wife. Traditionally, pilgrims would visit this site first to purify themselves in the sea before proceeding to Ise Grand Shrine. On clear mornings around the summer solstice, the sun rises perfectly between the two rocks.

Enshrined Deities

primary Deity

God of crossroads, guidance, travel safety, and earthly blessings; leader of the earthly deities

Blessings

Shrine Network

Did You Know?

💡

Around the summer solstice, the sun rises perfectly between the two Wedded Rocks, creating one of Japan's most iconic photographic moments.

Source: documented

Practical Information

Location Coordinates

34.5089, 136.7853

Physical Address

575 Futami-cho E, Ise-shi, Mie

三重県伊勢市二見町江575

Historical Province

Ise Province

Access

Futaminoura Station (JR Sangu Line)

15 min walk

Hours

Dawn to dusk

Best Times to Visit

summer solstice (sunrise between Meoto Iwa)New Year

Foreign Language Support

English (sign)

Accessibility

Limited (seaside path)

Visitor information last verified: 2026-04-06. Please check the official website for the latest details.

Why This Shrine

The iconic Wedded Rocks in the sea, traditionally the first stop before visiting Ise Grand Shrine for ritual purification.

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Related Myths

Learn More About Shinto Shrines

Background reading for visitors and pilgrims.

Frequently Asked Questions

Information provided by Jinja DB Editorial Team

What is Futami Okitama Shrine?

Futami Okitama Shrine is famous for the Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks), a pair of sacred rocks standing in the sea connected by a large shimenawa rope weighing over a ton. The larger rock represents the male (Izanagi), the smaller the female (Izanami), and together they symbolize the union of husband and wife. Traditionally, pilgrims would visit this site first to purify themselves in the sea before proceeding to Ise Grand Shrine. On clear mornings around the summer solstice, the sun rises perfectly between the two rocks.

Where is Futami Okitama Shrine located?

Futami Okitama Shrine is located in Ise-shi, Mie. The full address is: 575 Futami-cho E, Ise-shi, Mie.

What deities are enshrined at Futami Okitama Shrine?

The enshrined deities are: Sarutahiko Okami.