Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks)
Iconic 'Wedded Rocks' bound by a sacred rope, symbolizing eternal union and offering stunning coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunrise between the rocks
Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks)
Best Time
Sunrise between the rocks
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 'Wedded Rocks' bound by a sacred rope, symbolizing eternal union and offering stunning coastal views. 
"A very scenic spot away from lots of tourist. Came here on a cloudy morning so it was really nice to walk around."
🌅 Catch the Sunrise
Aim for May-July mornings for the iconic sunrise view between the rocks.
🐸 Lucky Frog Statues
Rub the frog statues at Futami Okitama Shrine for good luck and a happy marriage.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Wedded Rocks (Meoto Iwa)
Futami Okitama Shrine
Two sacred rocks, husband and wife, bound by a sacred rope, symbolizing eternal union.
+1
Futami Okitama Shrine
Adjacent to Meoto Iwa
A spiritual hub with numerous frog statues, believed to bring good fortune and happy marriages.
Sunrise Spectacle
Between the Meoto Iwa
Witness the sun perfectly align between the rocks during specific months, a truly spiritual sight.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Sunrise Views
+1Transportation: Plan Ahead
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunrise
Aim for May-July mornings for the iconic sunrise view between the rocks.
🐸 Lucky Frog Statues
Rub the frog statues at Futami Okitama Shrine for good luck and a happy marriage.
🚗 Drive for Convenience
Public transport can be limited; driving offers more freedom to explore the area.
🌊 Beware of Waves
Strong waves can splash the walkway, especially during rough weather.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunrise
Aim for May-July mornings for the iconic sunrise view between the rocks.
🐸 Lucky Frog Statues
Rub the frog statues at Futami Okitama Shrine for good luck and a happy marriage.
🚗 Drive for Convenience
Public transport can be limited; driving offers more freedom to explore the area.
🌊 Beware of Waves
Strong waves can splash the walkway, especially during rough weather.
☕ Coffee with a View
BonTin cafe offers great coffee and stunning views of Ise Bay near Meoto Iwa.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Meoto Iwa is praised for its scenic beauty and spiritual significance, particularly the iconic 'Wedded Rocks' symbolizing happy marriages. Visitors appreciate the unique natural formation and the nearby Futami Okitama Shrine with its lucky frog statues. While some find public transport challenging, the picturesque coastal views and the opportunity to witness sunrise make it a worthwhile destination.
"Wedded rock is really a place for couple to make a wish together. Near shrine provides amulet options. The rare one is cleansing sand and sacred herb. These amulets purified your house and your mind. With inner peace, you can accomplish many things and live happily together.
The glass loop here is for purify your body and cleanse out illness. You can let it touch your ill body part and pray. Then, leave it at the shrine or in front of the rock area.
Frog here seems to be money related wish."
Wirat Paranpoonnagan (K.)
"A very scenic spot away from lots of tourist. Came here on a cloudy morning so it was really nice to walk around. Besides the wedded rocks, there are also other attractions such as temples, shrines and also shops to buy some local products. The only downside here is there is not many taxis around. To go around this area, you will need to rely on busses or train."
Walter Aaron
"Meoto Iwa is located 15 min walk from Futamiura Station
It is two rock outcrop linked with a rope (Shimenawa).
The larger rock is husband and the smaller rock represent the wife.
The rock behind the husband and wife is the frog.
The two rock symbolize happy marriage and fertility.
This is a popular location for sunrise.
There are many frog status around the temple. It will bring good fortune.
Not many public transport around this area. It will be better to drive.
The waves might be strong and may splash onto the walkway.
This is a good location for sunrise."
Kam Hoe Chaw (Super Good)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Meoto Iwa by taking the Mie Kotsu Bus CAN bus or Bus 41 from Iseshi station to Ise Sea Paradise-mae, followed by a short walk. Alternatively, it's a 15-minute walk from JR Futamiura Station. Driving is also an option with free parking available. +1
Yes, public transport is available via buses like the Mie Kotsu CAN bus or Bus 41. However, some travelers find it less convenient than driving.
Meoto Iwa is located about 15 minutes by bus from the Ise-Jingu area, making it a feasible addition to a visit to the shrine.
Yes, Meoto Iwa is approximately a 15-minute walk from Futamiura Station, offering a pleasant stroll along the coast.
While buses serve the area, many visitors find driving to be the most convenient option for exploring Meoto Iwa and its surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to view the Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks) or visit the Futami Okitama Shrine. It's a free public attraction.
Meoto Iwa is accessible at all times, as it is an outdoor natural landmark. The Futami Okitama Shrine has its own operating hours, typically from morning to late afternoon.
The Futami Okitama Shrine itself is free to enter, allowing visitors to explore the grounds and see the Meoto Iwa.
Yes, you can obtain a Goshuin (temple or shrine seal) at Futami Okitama Shrine, a popular souvenir for visitors.
There are no specific entry restrictions, but visitors should be mindful of the sacred nature of the site and the potential for strong waves.
📸 📸 Photography
The best time for photography is during sunrise, especially from May to July when the sun rises perfectly between the rocks. Sunset can also offer beautiful light. +1
The main viewing area in front of the rocks offers excellent perspectives. For unique shots, consider the nearby BonTin cafe for views of Ise Bay.
Absolutely! Sunrise is a prime time for photographers, offering a dramatic and spiritual backdrop.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expanse of the sea and rocks. A tripod can help with low-light sunrise shots.
Drone usage is generally restricted at sacred sites and coastal areas in Japan. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
🎫 💖 Love & Relationships
Meoto Iwa, meaning 'Wedded Rocks,' symbolizes the union of husband and wife, making it a popular spot for couples seeking blessings for their relationship.
Yes, the symbolism of the two rocks tied together represents eternal love and commitment, making it a very romantic destination.
While not a direct wedding venue, the spiritual significance of Meoto Iwa makes it a place where couples often visit to pray for marital happiness.
The numerous frog statues are believed to bring good fortune and are often associated with happy marriages and fertility.
The romantic symbolism and beautiful coastal setting make Meoto Iwa a picturesque and meaningful location for a proposal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💖 Couples and Romantic Getaways
+2 Consider a visit to the nearby BonTin cafe for a coffee date with stunning sea views to enhance the romantic experience. 📸 Photographers
+1 The dramatic coastal scenery, the sacred shimenawa rope, and the spiritual atmosphere provide ample opportunities for captivating shots. A wide-angle lens and a tripod are recommended for capturing the grandeur of the scene, particularly in low light conditions. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Symbolism of the Wedded Rocks
+2The rocks are not just a symbol of marital bliss but also hold significance in Shinto beliefs as a gateway between the divine and human worlds. The Futami Okitama Shrine, situated nearby, is dedicated to the sea god and is often visited in conjunction with the rocks. Visitors often seek good fortune by interacting with the numerous frog statues scattered around the shrine, as frogs are considered messengers of the sea god and symbols of fertility and prosperity.
Beyond their symbolic meaning, the Meoto Iwa offer a stunning natural spectacle. The way the sun rises perfectly between the two rocks during certain months (May to July) is a breathtaking sight, drawing photographers and spiritual seekers alike. Similarly, during winter months (November to January), the full moon can be seen framed between the rocks, adding another layer of natural beauty to this sacred location.
+1Experiencing Meoto Iwa: Beyond the Rocks
For those looking for a relaxing break, the BonTin cafe is a highly recommended spot. Located just around the corner from the Wedded Rocks, it boasts incredible views of Ise Bay and serves delicious coffee. It's the perfect place to unwind and soak in the coastal scenery after visiting the rocks.
Travelers should be prepared for the coastal environment. The waves can be strong and occasionally splash onto the walkway, so wearing appropriate footwear is advisable. Despite potential windy conditions, especially in winter, many find the experience well worth the visit, appreciating the unique scenery and spiritual ambiance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit