Mekari Shrine
A serene shrine overlooking the Kanmon Straits, famous for its iconic torii gate and breathtaking sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Mekari Shrine
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene shrine overlooking the Kanmon Straits, famous for its iconic torii gate and breathtaking sunset views.
"A shrine with a spectacular view of the Kanmon Straits and the sunset."
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Aim for late afternoon to witness the magical sunset over the Kanmon Straits.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the shrine grounds and the seaside path.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Torii Gate
Overlooking the Kanmon Straits
A striking white torii gate stands sentinel against the sea, offering a picturesque frame for the strait.
Kanmon Straits Panorama
Shrine grounds
Witness the dynamic flow of ships and the majestic Kanmon Bridge from this serene vantage point.
Sunset Spectacle
Shrine grounds
Experience a breathtaking sunset painting the sky and sea in vibrant hues, a truly unforgettable sight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Best Views
Embrace the Coastal Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Aim for late afternoon to witness the magical sunset over the Kanmon Straits.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the shrine grounds and the seaside path.
🌊 Embrace the Sea Breeze
Enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and the dramatic coastal scenery.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The torii gate against the strait is a must-capture moment.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Aim for late afternoon to witness the magical sunset over the Kanmon Straits.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the shrine grounds and the seaside path.
🌊 Embrace the Sea Breeze
Enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and the dramatic coastal scenery.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The torii gate against the strait is a must-capture moment.
🤫 Seek Serenity
Visit on a weekday for a more peaceful and less crowded experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Mekari Shrine for its breathtaking views of the Kanmon Straits and the iconic torii gate, especially during sunset. Many appreciate its serene and secluded atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape. Some note its historical significance and unique services.
"While searching historical materials of Mekari Shrine and looking into the history of funerals, they found information that in the very old days, corpses were put on small boats and floated out to sea. They decided to apply this to develop a service called "Sea Funeral" (a ceremony to scatter remains into the sea). They posted an announcement about the sea funeral service on their website in July 2014 and received their first request three months later. Since then, their annual income has exceeded 10 million yen for the first time."
Platinum Guide
"A wonderful little shrine located by the sea. It is small by the view it offers makes it one of the best shrines I’ve been to in a Japan. The bridge, the sea, and the white torii combined is not something that you can commonly see. And the fact that it is secluded from the more touristy area makes you feel calm once you are there."
T K
"This shrine is especially popular in the winter and on New Years when they harvest seaweed. There is a long history of this shrine provided nori to the capital. Outside of this time, it can be a nice spot to view the bridge at sunset. I recommend stopping by."
E Griffin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mekari Shrine is accessible via public transport. From Mojiko Station, you can take the 'Kanmon Kaikyo' sightseeing train to the final stop, Mekari Station. From there, it's a short walk along the park or seaside.
Limited parking may be available near the shrine, but it's often recommended to use public transportation due to its popularity and scenic location.
Yes, you can walk along the seaside or through the park from Mojiko, which offers scenic views. The pedestrian tunnel entrance to Shimonoseki is also nearby.
From Kitakyushu City, you can take a train to Mojiko Station and then transfer to the sightseeing train or enjoy a walk.
Absolutely! Mekari Shrine is a perfect addition to a day trip exploring Mojiko Retro and the surrounding Kitakyushu area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Mekari Shrine is generally free to enter, allowing visitors to enjoy its spiritual atmosphere and scenic beauty without charge.
The shrine grounds are typically open from early morning until sunset, allowing ample time to enjoy the views.
No advance booking is required for general entry to Mekari Shrine, as it is a public space.
Historically, the shrine is known for its connection to seaweed harvesting, especially in winter and around New Year's.
Yes, you can visit Mekari Shrine during holidays, but expect larger crowds, especially during popular times like New Year's.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic white torii gate with the Kanmon Straits in the background is a prime photo spot. The panoramic views from the shrine grounds are also stunning. 
Photography is generally allowed at Mekari Shrine, allowing you to capture its beauty and the surrounding scenery.
Late afternoon, especially during sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and guidelines before flying a drone near the shrine.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for ships passing through the strait.
🎫 🌊 Onsite Experience
Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere, admire the views of the Kanmon Straits and bridge, and take photos of the iconic torii gate.
Yes, families can enjoy the scenic beauty and the open spaces around the shrine. It's a peaceful spot for a stroll.
Mekari Shrine is historically known as a guardian deity of the Kanmon Straits and has a long history, even being associated with ancient funeral practices.
There are often small shops or rest areas nearby, and it's close to the Mojiko Retro area which offers more dining and shopping options.
The shrine has developed a 'Sea Funeral' service, a ceremony to scatter remains into the sea, reflecting its historical connection to ancient funeral practices.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The iconic torii gate is also a fun element for kids to see and photograph. It's a great spot for a relaxed stroll and to introduce children to the beauty of Japanese coastal shrines. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as amenities might be limited directly at the shrine. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
The shrine's historical depth also offers a unique opportunity for personal reflection. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The iconic torii gate against the backdrop of the Kanmon Straits and bridge provides endless compositional possibilities. Don't miss the chance to capture the dramatic seascapes, especially on a stormy winter day when the waves crash dramatically. A wide-angle lens is recommended to capture the expansive views, and be prepared for the dynamic maritime traffic that adds life to your shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystique of Mekari Shrine's History
It is revered as a guardian deity of the vital Kanmon Straits, a crucial waterway connecting Honshu and Kyushu. This historical significance is palpable as you stand on its grounds, overlooking the bustling sea traffic. The shrine's unique connection to ancient practices, such as the historical custom of floating corpses out to sea on small boats, has even inspired modern services like the 'Sea Funeral' offered by the shrine. This deep historical root adds a layer of solemnity and intrigue to the shrine's serene coastal setting. Visitors often feel a sense of peace and reflection, enhanced by the dramatic natural backdrop. The shrine's enduring presence as a spiritual anchor for the region makes it a compelling destination for those interested in Japanese history and culture.
Ancient Practices and Modern Services
The shrine's historical association with funeral rites is a unique aspect that sets it apart. The 'Sea Funeral' service, which allows for the scattering of ashes into the sea, is a testament to this enduring connection. This innovative service, launched in 2014, has become a significant part of the shrine's income, demonstrating how ancient traditions can be adapted to contemporary needs.
Capturing the Essence: Photography at Mekari Shrine
+1 The interplay of the vibrant red torii against the blue sea and sky creates a visually stunning composition. For the best results, aim for the late afternoon golden hour, when the sunlight casts a warm glow and enhances the dramatic colors of the sky during sunset. Beyond the torii, the shrine grounds themselves offer numerous vantage points for capturing the dynamic maritime activity. Watching ships navigate the strait can make for compelling shots, especially when combined with the serene atmosphere of the shrine.
Many visitors also appreciate the opportunity to photograph the shrine's unique architecture and the surrounding coastal landscape. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens to encompass the expansive views and a telephoto lens if you wish to capture details of the ships or the distant shores. Tips for Photographers
* Timing is Key: Visit during the late afternoon for sunset and golden hour lighting.
* Composition: Experiment with framing the torii gate with the strait and bridge.
* Weather: Don't shy away from visiting on a stormy day; the dramatic waves can create powerful images.
* Respect: Be mindful of other visitors and the sacred nature of the shrine while taking photos.
Social
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