Fukuoka | Sakurai Futamigaura Meoto Iwa: The Romantic Connection Between Summer Solstice and Ise Futamigaura

Having visited the Meoto Iwa at Ise's Futamigaura, known as the Sunrise Futamigaura, I then went to Sakurai Futamigaura in Fukuoka, known as the Sunset Futamigaura. On the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, the sun rises between the Meoto Iwa at Ise and sets between the Meoto Iwa at Itoshima. This romantic connection made me decide to visit Itoshima. The white torii gate aligns with the Meoto Iwa, separated by 150 meters. Urban legend says this is the entrance to the Dragon Palace. The male rock is on the right, the female rock on the left, connected by a 30-meter-long, one-ton shimenawa rope. Legend has it that they are the incarnations of the male deity Izanagi and his wife Izanami. The waves crashing against the rocks symbolize facing life's challenges together in marriage. Visitors line up to take photos of the torii gate and Meoto Iwa together. Unlike Ise Futamigaura, Sakurai Futamigaura's Sakurai Shrine is 2.5 kilometers away, forming a straight line with the Meoto Iwa and the torii gate. Besides the Meoto Iwa, Itoshima is also known for its Palm Beach, beach swings, and cafes with beautiful sea views. However, be aware that bus intervals are long, so check the schedule in advance. 📍Address: 〒819-1304 Fukuoka Prefecture, Itoshima City, Shima Sakurai 🚗 From Hakata Bus Terminal, take the West Coast Line and get off at Futamigaura Meoto Iwa, or take the JR to Kyudai Gakken Toshi Station and transfer to the Nishinoura Line bus.