What are the Couple Stones at Sakurai Futamigaura?

Two sacred rocks called Meoto Iwa (Husband and Wife Rocks) connected by a shimenawa (sacred rope), representing the creator deities Izanagi and Izanami. The larger rock is 11.2 meters tall, the smaller 11.8 meters.

When is the best time to visit the Couple Stones?

Sunset is particularly popular when the sun sets between or behind the rocks during certain times of year, creating dramatic photographic and spiritual moments.

Can I walk to the rocks?

During low tide, it's sometimes possible to walk closer across exposed beach and rocky areas, though caution is required for uneven surfaces and changing water conditions.

Are these the same as the famous Meoto Iwa in Mie Prefecture?

No. While sharing the same Meoto Iwa name (Husband and Wife Rocks), Fukuoka's version has its own distinct history and local significance separate from Mie's more famous paired rocks.

What other attractions are near Sakurai Futamigaura?

The Itoshima Peninsula offers area beaches, seafood restaurants, craft shops, and agricultural tourism sites, making it easy to combine multiple attractions in one visit.

Fukuoka

Sakurai Futamigaura's Couple Stones

4.4 (5399)Tourist AttractionScenic SpotPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated May 17, 2026

Sakurai Futamigaura's Couple Stones, known as Meoto Iwa (Husband and Wife Rocks), are two sacred rocks offshore at Futamigaura Beach in Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture. While sharing their name with Mie Prefecture's famous rocks, these have independent local significance. In Shinto tradition, the rocks represent the creator deities Izanagi and Izanami from Japanese mythology. The larger rock stands approximately 11.2 meters high, the smaller about 11.8 meters, joined by a sacred shimenawa (twisted rice straw rope) replaced annually through ritual. The site has been a place of worship associated with marriage, marital harmony, and safe childbirth.

The rocks are one of Kyushu's significant sacred coastal formations in Shinto belief, where natural features possess spiritual presence. The shimenawa rope symbolizes divine connection and marks the rocks as sacred objects. The site links to Sakurai Shrine approximately 150 meters inland, which worships the same creator deities. The rocks form a natural torii gateway visible from the shrine, establishing spiritual alignment between inland shrine and offshore formation. The Itoshima Peninsula coastal setting along the Genkai Sea creates dramatic scenery.

Visitors view the rocks from Futamigaura Beach via short walks from parking areas. Shore-based viewing distance changes with tides. Low tide sometimes permits walking closer across exposed beach and rock areas, requiring caution for uneven surfaces and water conditions. Sunset is popular viewing time. Sakurai Shrine visits complement the rocks through their spiritual connection. A white torii gate on the beach marks sacred ground and provides photographic framing. The relatively undeveloped area maintains natural coastal atmosphere.

Sakurai Futamigaura is approximately 40 to 50 minutes by car from central Fukuoka City via coastal Route 202. Public transport requires the JR Chikuhi Line from Fukuoka to Chikuzen-Maebaru Station, then bus to Futamigaura, involving transfers. Rental cars or tours offer easier Fukuoka access. The Itoshima Peninsula location pairs with area beaches, seafood restaurants, craft shops, and farms. Beach and viewing access is free.

Phone

+81 92-327-0317

Website

sakuraijinja.com

Overview

Address

Shimasakurai, Itoshima, Fukuoka 819-1304, Japan

Frequently Asked Questions

Traveler reviews

Sakurai Futamigaura's Couple Stones was our next stop of the tour after Shiraito waterfall and Ichiran no mori (Not reviewed). It was a definitely stunning location. The area features a white Torii and Wedded Rocks with a movie like ocean backdrop. It is situated in a beach in the wilderness of Itoshima city near Fukuoka. Some of the concerns about this location is that the queue for the photo spot can take more than 20 minutes to complete. Also, there is a stream in the sand that you have to cross before entering the photo area, which can be slippery.

Traveller Patrick

Aug 6, 2026

So cute! We came here around 4pm on the weekend in mid-May and it was hot and pretty packed. So I would recommend coming earlier in the morning (to avoid crowds + heat), before sunset (more crowds but less heat) or in the colder season (avoid crowds and heat). Overall the crowds weren't excessive though, and there was a line to take pictures with waiting times of about 5 mins. The parking was right in front and is approx 300¥, otherwise free to visit Beautiful and worth visiting

Sakurai Futamigaura in Itoshima is famous for its "Couple Stones" (Meoto Iwa) and striking white torii gate. I am going to offer you more useful travel tips based on the sharing from an experienced local guide. 1. Time your visit for low tide by the tide app if you want to walk up to / get closer to the sacred white gate. 2. Arrive 30 minutes before sunset to look for a prime spot on the beach. See the sun dip between the stones. The “blue hour” that follows offers stunningly romantic skies. This beach is ranked as one of the 100 best sunset views in Japan. During the summer solstice, the sun sets directly between the two rocks. 3. Rent a car from Fukuoka since buses are infrequent. 4. Dress warmly / Bring a light jacket since the coastline can get very windy. Enjoy your moments here with your loved ones 🥰

It is a beautiful beach and blue ocean located in Itoshima. Good photo spots for the families visiting here. A few restaurants and cafés on the shore. Walking is part of enjoyment. We stopped by here for an hour to enjoy ocean and its shoreline.

Very nice place to visit. We went on weekdays in middle April. Some cafe and restaurants there are good taste. Parking lots is not quite full in weekdays but waiting in line to take photos might consume time...so we decided to take photos on the other spot. Not bad