Yurahime Shrine

Overview

Yurahime Shrine is located in Urago, Nishinoshima-cho, Oki-gun, Shimane Prefecture. It's a Jinsha (式内社) (a shrine listed in the Engishiki), the Ichinomiya (一宮) of Oki Province, and formerly held the status of a Gosha (郷社). While its founding is unknown, the national history book Shoku Nihon Kokki (続日本後紀) mentions that in 842 AD, three shrines—Yurahime-no-mikoto Shrine (Yurahime Shrine), Ukeha-no-mikoto Shrine (Ukega Shrine on Nakanoshima Island), and Mizunawasu-no-mikoto Shrine (Mizunawasu Shrine on Dogo Island)—were entrusted with official duties. In the Heian period, it was designated as the Ichinomiya of Oki Province and known as a highly ranked shrine. The enshrined deity of Yurahime Shrine is Suserihime-no-mikoto, known locally as Yurahime-Oogami. An interesting legend surrounds the shrine's founding. According to legend, it was originally located on Choburi Island at Torahaku Beach. However, after being moved to Yura on Nishinoshima Island, the squid stopped coming to the original location and gathered at the new one instead. Another legend tells of Yurahime-no-mikoto traveling across the sea on an Imo-oke (芋桶; a bucket for carrying potatoes). When she dipped her hand in the sea, a squid pulled on it. As an apology, it is said that the squid gather every year on the beach of Yura. Even today, from October to February, squid gather on the beach in front of the shrine, known as "Ika-yose no Hama" (いか寄せの浜; Squid-gathering Beach). Yurahime Shrine is an ancient shrine with a long history, a mystical place rich in history and legend. The tranquil atmosphere of the grounds brings peace and power to those who visit. Nestled in a lush natural environment, the shrine captivates many as a sacred power spot. When visiting Yurahime Shrine, be sure to check out "Ika-yose no Hama".