Futamigaura Torii & Couple Stones
| Futamigaura Shrine is a serene coastal landmark in Itoshima, celebrated for its white torii gate and the sacred Meotoiwa rocks set against the Genkai Sea. |
| Located within the tranquil expanse of Genkai Quasi-National Park, Futamigaura Shrine represents a profound intersection of Shinto tradition and coastal geology. Historically integrated into the estate of Sakurai Shrine, the site enjoyed the dedicated patronage of the Kuroda clan lords throughout the Edo period. This long-standing cultural stewardship has preserved its atmosphere of dignified permanence. Approximately 150 meters from the shoreline, the Meotoiwa, or “Couple Rocks”, rise from the water. These pillars are connected by a heavy shimenawa cord, a traditional woven rope that signifies their status as a singular, sacred entity within the natural world. While the Futamigaura in Mie Prefecture is associated with the rising sun, this Kyushu counterpart is defined by the evening light. The site is particularly striking during the summer solstice in June. At this time, the sun sets directly between the two stones, casting a precise glow through the white torii gate on the beach. This alignment creates a visual clarity that has earned the location a place among the premier scenic landscapes in Japan. The surrounding area has evolved to include refined local establishments that complement the view without infringing upon the site’s inherent stillness. It remains an essential destination for those seeking a quiet, authentic connection to the maritime heritage of the Fukuoka region. |
