Toriike Pond Shimoji
A serene natural wonder featuring twin sinkholes connected to the sea, with a mystical submerged torii gate.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Toriike Pond Shimoji
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene natural wonder featuring twin sinkholes connected to the sea, with a mystical submerged torii gate.
"The geological formations are truly captivating and unique. I have never encountered anything comparable before."
🎯 Visit on Weekdays
Avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere by visiting Toriike Pond during weekdays.
📸 Capture the Magic
Visit during golden hour for the most stunning light to photograph the submerged torii and water colors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Submerged Torii Gate
Main pond
A crimson torii gate gently sinking into the calm waters, creating a surreal and mystical scene.
Twin Sinkholes
The ponds
Two unique sinkholes connected by the seabed, showcasing fascinating limestone erosion and sea connections.
Ocean View
Coastal path
A stunning photo spot offering picturesque views of the ocean, blending nature's beauty with tranquility.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Best Photo Ops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Visit on Weekdays
Avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere by visiting Toriike Pond during weekdays.
📸 Capture the Magic
Visit during golden hour for the most stunning light to photograph the submerged torii and water colors.
🚶♀️ Explore the Paths
Leisurely stroll along the walking paths to immerse yourself in the tranquility and natural beauty.
🌊 Unique Geological Wonder
Marvel at the twin sinkholes connected to the sea, a truly unique natural formation.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Visit on Weekdays
Avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere by visiting Toriike Pond during weekdays.
📸 Capture the Magic
Visit during golden hour for the most stunning light to photograph the submerged torii and water colors.
🚶♀️ Explore the Paths
Leisurely stroll along the walking paths to immerse yourself in the tranquility and natural beauty.
🌊 Unique Geological Wonder
Marvel at the twin sinkholes connected to the sea, a truly unique natural formation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Toriike Pond is widely praised as a peaceful, hidden gem with stunning, almost otherworldly natural beauty. Visitors are captivated by the unique geological formations, the serene atmosphere, and the picturesque submerged torii gate, making it a highly recommended spot for quiet contemplation and photography.
"Toriike Pond is a peaceful hidden gem perfect for a quiet escape. The serene waters and lush surroundings create a calming atmosphere ideal for a stroll or some reflective downtime. Plus, there’s a lovely photo spot facing the ocean that makes for stunning views and great pictures. A perfect blend of nature and tranquility."
Stephanie Wong
"Toriike Pond was absolutely stunning. The place was really well maintained, and the view felt almost unreal, like something out of another planet. I can’t believe we hadn’t been here before. The breeze was super comfortable, and it was completely quiet with no one else around. So a peaceful."
Marthe
"Serene. Two deep sinkholes formed by limestone erosion and connected to the sea below, the colors of the water shift with the sunlight."
Lillian Young
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Toriike Pond is located on Shimoji Island in Miyakojima, Okinawa. It's accessible by car, and many visitors find it a convenient detour, especially if flying out of Irabu Island Airport. Renting a car is recommended for exploring the area.
While it's a bit of a detour, signage generally leads visitors to the pond. Many social media posts highlight it as a must-see spot when in the Miyakojima area.
Renting a car or a scooter is the most popular and convenient way to explore Shimoji Island and reach attractions like Toriike Pond.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Toriike Pond is free of charge, making it an accessible natural attraction for all visitors.
Toriike Pond is a natural site and is generally accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety.
No advance booking is required as there is no entrance fee. You can visit spontaneously.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can enjoy the serene natural beauty, take photos of the unique submerged torii and twin sinkholes, and stroll along the walking paths. It's a perfect spot for quiet contemplation and enjoying nature.
Absolutely! The surreal landscape, especially the submerged torii and the interplay of light on the water, makes it a photographer's paradise. Visiting during golden hour enhances the photographic potential.
Swimming is generally not advised in the sinkholes themselves due to their depth and connection to the sea. The focus is on appreciating the natural scenery from the designated paths.
Yes, families can enjoy the peaceful environment and the unique natural formations. The walking paths are generally easy to navigate, but supervision is advised around the pond edges.
Its uniqueness lies in the twin sinkholes connected by the seabed, with one pond also linking to the sea. This geological marvel, combined with the submerged torii, creates an otherworldly atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Toriike Pond. Visitors are advised to bring their own snacks and drinks or dine in the nearby towns of Miyakojima or Irabu Island.
You'll find various local eateries and restaurants in the towns of Miyakojima and Irabu Island, offering Okinawan cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times are during sunrise and sunset (golden hour) when the light is soft and creates a magical atmosphere. Weekdays also offer fewer distractions for capturing the perfect shot.
The submerged torii gate in the main pond and the view of the ocean from the coastal path are the most iconic and photogenic spots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack some snacks and drinks as there are no facilities on-site. Visiting on a weekday will ensure a more relaxed experience with fewer people. The visual spectacle of the submerged torii and the twin ponds can spark curiosity and wonder in young minds, making it a memorable stop on your family's itinerary.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Weekdays are ideal to avoid crowds and allow for unhurried composition. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the landscape and a polarizing filter to enhance the water's clarity and reduce glare. The coastal views also offer excellent opportunities for seascape photography.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
Visiting on a weekday is highly recommended to fully experience the quietude. The unique geological formations and the mystical submerged torii provide a captivating backdrop for contemplation. It's an ideal spot to unwind, meditate, or simply enjoy a moment of solitude amidst natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Marvel of Toriike Pond
The visual impact of these twin ponds is striking, especially with the addition of a submerged torii gate in one of them. This crimson gate, partially or fully underwater depending on the tide, adds a layer of mystique and cultural depth to the already surreal landscape. It's a sight that has captivated many visitors, offering a unique blend of natural wonder and spiritual symbolism.
Many visitors describe the experience as otherworldly and deeply serene. The geological formations are truly captivating and unlike anything they've encountered before, making the excursion undeniably worthwhile. The colors of the water shift beautifully with the sunlight, further enhancing the ethereal quality of the site.
Capturing Toriike Pond's Ethereal Beauty
To get the best shots, timing is crucial. Visiting during the 'golden hour' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – bathes the ponds in a soft, warm light, enhancing the colors and creating dramatic shadows. Weekdays are also recommended to avoid crowds, allowing for more unobstructed views and creative freedom.
Beyond the main ponds, explore the surrounding coastal paths for stunning ocean vistas that complement the serene pond views. The interplay of the rugged coastline, the clear blue sea, and the tranquil ponds offers a diverse range of photographic opportunities. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the landscape and a polarizing filter to manage reflections on the water.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit