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Natural attraction · Ise, Mie
Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks)
Two rocks in the sea at Futami, one large and one small, joined by a sacred rice-straw rope in front of Futami Okitama Shrine. Between May and July the sun often rises between them.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
A look at the place
Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks) in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Discover
About Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks)
Meoto Iwa, the “married rocks,” are two rocks rising from the sea a few meters off Futami’s coast in the city of Ise. The larger one, about 9 meters high, is seen as the husband; the smaller as the wife. A sacred rice-straw rope, the shimenawa, over 30 meters long links the two and marks the boundary between the human world and the realm of the gods.
The rocks belong to Futami Okitama Shrine, on the beach. According to tradition they act as a gateway to a sacred submerged rock about 700 meters away associated with the deity Sarutahiko, and as a torii for those who pray to the rising sun. Before visiting the Ise shrines, pilgrims purified themselves in Futami’s waters.
The rope is replaced several times a year in ceremonies where men climb the rocks to pass the new shimenawa, the best-known event taking place in May. The shrine also has many frog statues, considered messengers of the deity because the Japanese word for frog sounds like “return”; visitors associate them with a safe return.
Between May and July the sun often rises between the two rocks, and on very clear days Mount Fuji can be seen far away on the horizon. In winter the full moon sometimes appears in the same direction. A seaside path links the shrine to Futami’s traditional inns.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
At sunrise, especially between May and July when the sun often emerges between the rocks. On clear days the view is broader; when the sea is rough, waves crash strongly against the stones. Check the schedule for the rope-changing ceremonies.
How to get there
Located in Futami, about 8 km from Ise-shi station. By train, take the JR Sangū Line to Futaminoura and walk about 15 minutes; buses also connect Ise-shi and Toba to Futami.
Tip
Stay at an inn in Futami to see the sunrise between the rocks in season. Walk the seaside path to the shrine and notice the frog statues.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks)
When does the sun rise between the rocks of Meoto Iwa?
It usually rises between them from May to July, with higher chances near the June solstice. It depends on the day’s sky.
How often is the rope at Meoto Iwa replaced?
Several times a year, in ceremonies at Futami Okitama Shrine. The most well-known usually takes place in May; check the schedule.
Why are there frogs at Meoto Iwa?
They are considered messengers of the shrine’s deity, and the Japanese word for frog sounds like “to return.” Visitors associate them with returning home safely.
Is there an admission fee to see Meoto Iwa?
There is no charge at Futami Okitama Shrine or on the seaside path.
Beyond the guide
