How much does it cost to visit Yurahime Shrine?

Shrine admission is free. Ferry fares to Nishinoshima range from ¥2,000-¥4,000 depending on route and vessel type.

Are there accommodations on Nishinoshima?

Yes, but options are limited to small guesthouses and minshuku lodgings. Book in advance due to the island's small size and limited capacity.

When are festivals held at Yurahime Shrine?

Annual festivals maintain traditional rituals passed through generations. Contact local tourism offices or the shrine directly for specific festival dates and schedules.

Is Yurahime Shrine accessible for casual visitors?

Yes. The shrine has modest grounds suitable for visitors. However, reaching Nishinoshima requires multiple ferry connections and advance planning due to limited transport and accommodations.

Yurahime Shrine, Nishinoshima

4.2 (192)Shinto ShrineTourist AttractionPlace Of WorshipAssociation Or OrganizationPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated May 17, 2026

Yurahime Shrine is a Shinto shrine on Nishinoshima, part of the Oki Islands archipelago located 60 kilometers north of Shimane Prefecture in the Sea of Japan. The shrine venerates Yurahime, a deity linked to maritime safety, fishing prosperity, and ocean protection. The shrine's origins trace to ancient periods when the Oki Islands functioned as maritime trade and fishing centers, reflecting island communities' reliance on the sea.

The shrine represents maritime worship traditions in Japan's remote island regions. Yurahime, associated with water deities in Shinto mythology, receives prayers from fishermen and sailors for storm protection and successful catches. Nishinoshima is part of the Oki Islands UNESCO Global Geopark, recognized for geological and cultural heritage. The shrine connects spiritual practice with the archipelago's coastal landscapes and volcanic formations. Annual festivals maintain traditional rituals preserved by island residents.

Visitors to Yurahime Shrine encounter a modest shrine structure reflecting the scale of Nishinoshima's small population of approximately 3,000 residents. The shrine grounds offer views of the surrounding coastline and rugged island terrain typical of the Oki archipelago. The site provides insight into island religious practices and the role of Shinto shrines in sustaining community identity in isolated maritime settings.

Access to Nishinoshima requires ferry or high-speed boat service from Saigo Port on Dogo Island, the largest of the Oki Islands, with crossings taking approximately 60-90 minutes. Dogo Island itself is reached by ferry from Shichirui Port or Sakaiminato Port on the Shimane mainland, with journey times of 2-3 hours depending on vessel type. Alternatively, Oki Airport on Dogo Island receives flights from Izumo Airport and Osaka Itami Airport. Nishinoshima has limited public transportation, making rental cars, bicycles, or taxis necessary for reaching the shrine and other island sites.

Traveler reviews

Worth dropping by, easy walk, peaceful and nice

Terence Lee

Sep 17, 2024

Unique temple, the only one in Japan dedicated to Yurahime deity and one of the most important temple on Oki Islands.

I visited Yurahime Shrine, known as the Ichinomiya (first-ranked shrine) of Oki Province. ■Date of Visit: April 2026 ■Atmosphere & Origin The magnificent gatehouse and the shrine buildings, which have gained character over the years, are incredibly beautiful, and a quiet, solemn atmosphere permeates the place. In front of the shrine is a beautiful cove called "Ikayose no Hama" (Squid Gathering Beach), and the torii gate facing the sea is impressive. Based on a legend that a god was bitten on the hand by a squid, squid motifs (lanterns, carvings, etc.) are hidden throughout the grounds, making it a wonderful shrine that feels both dignified and playful. ■Goshuin (Shrine Seal) The goshuin is not available at the shrine itself, but at the Beppu Port Tourist Association (ferry terminal). Be sure to remember to stop by after your visit. ■Parking There is a parking lot in front of the shrine that can accommodate up to 4 cars.

Ichinomiya Shrine in Oki Province. Visited on a tour of Ichinomiya Shrines. You can park your car in the large space on the road in front. You can get a goshuin (temple seal) at the tourist information center at Beppu Port.

Yurahime Shrine is located in a quiet place along the seashore, and is a shrine with a great atmosphere. When I went to pray, a local volunteer called out to me and gave me a special tour of the inside of the worship hall. He even let me join in a taiko drumming session, and I had an unexpectedly fun time. It is a memorable shrine where you can feel the warmth of the local people. However, I wanted to get around by motorbike, so I felt a bit disappointed.

Yurahime Shrine, Nishinoshima

Overview

Frequently Asked Questions

Traveler reviews

Phone

Website