The oldest shrine in Izu-no-kuni, Shizuoka and the red torii gate shining on the white beach [Ikuna-hime no Mikoto Shrine (Shirahama Shrine)] in Izu-no-kuni, Shizuoka

  • Shizuoka
  • Sightseeing
The first torii gate of Shirahama Shrine, also known as Ikona-hime-no-mikoto-jinja Shrine
Izu Shimoda is about a two-and-a-half-hour trip from Tokyo by limited express train such as the Odoriko. The journey is decorated with the vast expanse of Sagami Bay from the train window, which attracts many people. The Shirahama Coast of Shimoda is the place where the splashing of the waves on the sandy beach that comes closer and closer together, and the beautiful horizon can be admired. The red torii gate, which attracts many visitors, and a shrine with a long history here keep visitors coming back. This may be because of the power that resides in this place and the godly feeling of being blessed with the blessings of marriage and childbirth.

Shirahama Shrine with its divine atmosphere

The Shirahama Shrine, also known as "Shirahama Shrine," is located on the Shirahama Coast, famous for its beautiful white sandy beach and crystal-clear waters. It is the oldest shrine in Izu, with a history of over 2,400 years. A sacred tree over 2,000 years old stands tall in the precincts of the shrine, attracting the hearts of visitors. When you pass through the torii gate to visit the shrine, you will feel refreshed by the atmosphere of the shrine.
Shirahama Shrine, a.k.a. Shirahama Shrine, courtesy of Shimoda City Tourist Association

Shining vermilion-lacquered torii gate

After praying, walk to the far right side of the shrine and you will see a magnificent view of the beautiful and clear Shirahama Coast. The red torii gate on the Omyojin Iwa (Great Myojin Rock) is the most eye-catching feature of the shrine. Now, let's approach the red torii, taking care to watch your step. The sound of the waves lapping against the rocks, the sound of the waves coming and going, and the beauty and divinity of the red gateway will take your breath away. The Izu Islands are located far beyond the Great Myojin Iwa, and the torii of Shirahama Shrine is actually a place of worship for the gods of the Izu Islands. It is truly a sacred place with a spiritual significance, and is recommended as both a power spot and a place with a spectacular view.
Red torii gate standing on the Shirahama Coast Daimyojin Iwa

The red torii gate shining in the setting sun - the Izu Islands in the distance

If you stay in Shimoda, I recommend visiting Shirahama Beach twice, once during the daytime and once just before sunset. The atmosphere there is clean and mystical, with a sense of serenity that is quite different from the glamorous atmosphere during the daytime. Enjoy the serenity and emotion of the setting sun. Depending on the weather, you may be able to see Izu Oshima and Toshijima, two of the seven islands of Izu, in the distance. Even though Izu is a large area, there is probably no other place in the world like Shirahama Beach. Here, you can contemplate the long history of Izu's oldest shrine and enjoy the natural beauty of the sea, Shirahama Beach, and the sky to your heart's content.
Shirahama Coast: Daimyojin Iwa and the red torii gate
Shirahama Beach - Daimyojin Iwa

A red seal as proof of worship

The beautiful red seals of Shirahama Shrine are available in different types depending on the season, and are awarded on paper. One of the pleasures of visiting the shrine is to choose which one you will be purified with after paying a visit to the shrine. The red seal I received depicts the red torii gate, which is the symbol of Shirahama Shrine, and a scene between the waves, a very beautiful and powerful design that reminds me of the time I spent here. It will surely become a wonderful memory of your trip! Please take a look. Please check the hours of operation before you go to the shrine to receive a red seal!
Shirahama Shrine red seal
Shirahama Shrine (Shirahama Shrine) HP is here

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