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Meoto Iwa: The Wedded Rocks

Discover the iconic Wedded Rocks of Ise, a symbol of eternal love and marital bliss in a serene coastal setting with rich Shinto mythology.

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Meoto Iwa, or the Wedded Rocks, are a pair of sacred rock formations in the sea off Futami, near Ise, Japan. Representing the union of the Shinto deities Izanagi and Izanami, they symbolize marital harmony and are visited by couples seeking blessings. The rocks are connected by a sacred shimenawa rope, replaced three times a year in a special ceremony.

A brief summary to Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks)

Local tips

  • Visit during high tide to see the rocks separated by water for the most picturesque view.
  • Arrive early on a clear summer morning for a chance to see the sunrise between the rocks, with Mount Fuji visible in the distance.
  • Explore the nearby Futami Okitama Shrine and look for the numerous frog statues, which are considered auspicious.
  • Attend the shimenawa rope replacement ceremony on May 5th, September 5th, or in mid-December for a unique cultural experience.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Ryugu Shrine or the Hinjitsukan Museum for a broader cultural experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From JR Futaminoura Station, the Meoto Iwa are a scenic 15-20 minute walk. Exit the station and follow the signs towards the coast. The path leads through the town and along the beach, offering views of the sea. The rocks are located near the Futami Okitama Shrine. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From Iseshi Station or Kintetsu Ujiyamada Station, take a CAN bus bound for Toba. Get off at the Meoto Iwa Higashiguchi bus stop. From there, it is a short walk to the rocks. The bus ride takes approximately 20 minutes. The fare is approximately ¥400.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from JR Iseshi Station. The ride to Meoto Iwa takes about 8 minutes. A taxi from Iseshi Station to Meoto Iwa will cost approximately ¥3900-¥4700.

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Discover more about Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks)

Meoto Iwa, meaning 'Wedded Rocks,' are a celebrated natural landmark located in Futami, Ise, Mie Prefecture. These two rocks, standing in the sea, symbolize the sacred union of Izanagi and Izanami, the creator deities in Shinto mythology, who are believed to have given birth to the Japanese islands and many of the kami (spirits). The larger, male rock (Izanagi) stands at nine meters tall and is topped with a small torii gate, while the smaller, female rock (Izanami) is four meters in height. The rocks are joined by a thick shimenawa rope, weighing over a ton and measuring 35 meters in length, which represents the bond of marriage. This rope is replaced three times a year (May 5th, September 5th, and in mid-December) in a traditional ceremony. The Shinto religion embraces the notion of newness, and the frequent replacement of the rope symbolizes the renewal of the marriage bond. Located near the Futami Okitama Shrine, the Meoto Iwa are considered a sacred site. The shrine is dedicated to Sarutahiko Okami, a deity associated with matchmaking, marital bliss, and traffic safety. Numerous frog statues adorn the shrine grounds, as frogs ('kaeru' in Japanese) are believed to bring good fortune in returning lost items or people. Visiting during high tide offers the best view of the rocks separated by water. On clear summer mornings, it's possible to see the sun rising between the rocks, and occasionally, even Mount Fuji in the distance. The surrounding area offers other attractions, including the Ryugu Shrine, dedicated to the dragon god of the seas, and Futami Plaza, a shopping and dining complex.

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