Futami Okitama Shrine

Overview

Futami Okitama Shrine, situated in Ise City, Mie Prefecture, is renowned for its striking Meotoiwa (Married Couple Rocks). These two large rocks serve as a natural torii gate, framing the sacred Okitama-no-ishi, and symbolically representing the worship of the Sun Goddess (Amaterasu-omikami) and Okitama-no-ishi. Historically, the rocks were known as Tateishi (standing stone, male rock) and Nejiiri-iwa (root-like rock, female rock), but they eventually became known as Meotoiwa (Married Couple Rocks). Images of the sunrise viewed between the Meotoiwa rocks are often used in calendars and other media as a quintessential representation of the first sunrise of the year. However, due to the sun's trajectory, this view is not possible during the winter months. For approximately four months around the summer solstice, the rising sun can be seen between the rocks. In the two weeks surrounding the solstice, the rising sun appears to rise from near the summit of Mount Fuji, approximately 200km away at an azimuth of about 61 degrees. This spectacle attracts numerous visitors and photographers from nearby Futamiura Ryokan (inn) district, even during the rainy season. Similarly, around the winter solstice, the rising moon can be seen between the rocks, drawing large crowds of photographers and worshippers, especially on full moon nights. The shrine grounds are adorned with countless frog statues. This is because Sarutahiko-o-kami's messenger is a frog, and after receiving divine blessings, worshippers traditionally donated frog sculptures to the shrine. Frogs are associated with the Japanese word "kaeru" (to return), implying the safe return of something borrowed, or the return of money. This auspicious connection continues to inspire many worshippers to offer frog statues as good luck charms. Futami Okitama Shrine has long been considered a symbol of marital bliss and household safety. The breathtaking sunrises and sunsets viewed between the Meotoiwa rocks attract many tourists. The shrine is also famous as a power spot, drawing visitors seeking blessings and wishes. If you visit Futami Okitama Shrine, be sure to witness the sunrise or sunset between the Meotoiwa rocks. And don't forget to take a closer look at the numerous frog statues. It will undoubtedly create an unforgettable memory for you.