Mendake Shrine, Iki Travel Guide

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Discover Mendake Shrine in Iki: A serene sanctuary dedicated to the goddess of performing arts and marital bliss. A must-see for spiritual seekers.

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Mendake Shrine

Mendake Shrine, nestled on Mt. Mendake in Iki, Nagasaki, is dedicated to Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto, the goddess of performing arts and marriage. Visiting this shrine, along with its counterpart Ondake Shrine, is said to bring luck in finding a good partner.

A brief summary to Mendake Shrine

101 Ashibecho Hakozakikuginoofure, Iki, Ashibecho Hakozakikuginoofure, Nagasaki, 811-5465, JP
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mendake Shrine.

Combine your visit with Ondake Shrine to maximize your luck in finding a good partner, according to local beliefs.
Explore the Sukuiishi rock near the shrine, known as a 'power spot' with unusual magnetic properties.
Consider visiting during a local festival to experience the vibrant cultural traditions of Iki Island.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Saruiwa (Monkey Rock)

Ikikoku Museum (Nagasaki Prefecture Buried Cultural Property Center)

Iki Island

Yokohama Landmark Tower

Glover Garden

Explore Mendake Shrine on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Mendake Shrine, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Iki's main ports (Gonoura or Ashibe), take a local bus towards Ashibecho Hakozakikuginoofure. Bus services on Iki Island are available, with a one-day pass costing ¥1000 for adults. From the nearest bus stop, it's a short walk to the shrine. Check local bus schedules for accurate timings.
Taxi

Taxis are available at Iki Airport and the main ports. A taxi ride from either port to Mendake Shrine will offer a direct route. Confirm the fare before starting your journey. The cost is approximately ¥2,000-¥3,000.
Car

If driving, navigate to 101 Ashibecho Hakozakikuginoofure, Iki, Nagasaki 811-5465. Limited parking is available near the shrine. Rental cars are available on Iki Island. Be aware that parking may be limited, especially during peak seasons or special events.

Discover more about Mendake Shrine

Mendake Shrine, perched on Mt. Mendake on Iki Island, offers a serene escape into Japanese mythology and natural beauty. Dedicated to Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto, a goddess renowned for her role in Japanese performing arts and her marriage to Sarutahiko-no-Mikoto, the deity of Ondake Shrine, Mendake Shrine is more than just a scenic spot; it's a place of spiritual significance.The shrine's location on Mt. Mendake, across from Mt. Ondake, creates a unique connection between the two sites. Local lore suggests that visiting both shrines can bring good fortune in finding a compatible partner. Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto is a well-known figure in Japanese mythology, with her story recounted in the Kojiki, Japan's oldest chronicle. According to the tale, when the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami hid in a cave, plunging the world into darkness, Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto danced before the cave to entice her out, restoring light to the world.Not far from the main shrine pavilion lies Sukuiishi, a large boulder revered as the shrine's goshintai, or object of worship. This stone has gained popularity as a "power spot," where visitors can experience the earth's energy. The magnetism of the rock is known to disrupt compass needles, adding to its mystique. The name "Sukuiishi" is derived from the word "sukuu," which refers to how birds build nests, as storks were once said to have nested on the rock. Because storks are believed to bring babies, some visit to pray for children.Iki Island itself is steeped in history and spirituality, with over 150 registered Shinto shrines dotting the landscape. The island is mentioned in ancient mythology as one of the first islands created by the gods. This rich spiritual heritage, combined with the island's natural beauty, makes Mendake Shrine a compelling destination for those seeking a deeper connection to Japanese culture and mythology.