Aoshima Shrine: A Mythological Escape to the Heart of Miyazaki

Temples & Shrines

Steeped in an aura of mystery and romance, Aoshima Shrine is no ordinary place of worship. Located on a small tropical island off the coast of Miyazaki, it offers a unique spiritual experience where nature and mythology intertwine to create an atmosphere of serenity and power. Far from the urban bustle, it’s a true escape to the heart of Japanese spirituality.

A Divine History: The Union of Land and Sea

The legend of Aoshima Shrine is deeply rooted in the Kojiki, the oldest collection of Japanese myths. The shrine is dedicated to Hoori-no-mikoto (also known as Yamasachihiko), his wife the goddess Toyotama-hime, and Shiotsuchi-no-kami, the matchmaker who brought them together. According to the myth, it was on this very island that Yamasachihiko, the god of the hunt, and Toyotama-hime, the sea princess, met and fell in love, sealing the union between the land and the ocean.

For centuries, the island itself was considered sacred ground and access was forbidden to the public until 1737. The earliest traces of a shrine date back to the Heian period (794-1185), but it was through the patronage of the lords of the Obi domain during the Edo period (1603-1867) that the site gained its current importance.

The Sacred Journey: From the Torii Gate to the Inner Shrine

The journey to the shrine begins even before you reach the island. The bridge that connects the mainland to Aoshima Island stretches over the astonishing rock formation nicknamed the “Devil’s Washboard” (Oni-no-Sentakuita), designated as a natural monument. These rocks, sculpted by marine erosion, form a wavy path that prepares the pilgrim for the crossing. Once on the island, visitors are greeted by a majestic red torii gate, framed by a dense subtropical forest, creating a striking contrast with the sandy beach.

As you walk along the path, you get the feeling of being transported to another world, far from civilization. The lush flora and fauna, including over 5,000 Livistona palms, give the place a mystical atmosphere. The path then leads to the main shrine, a simple and elegant structure, yet infused with a powerful spiritual energy.

Rituals and Sacred Objects: Prayers for Love and Luck

Aoshima Shrine is a prime destination for those seeking luck in love. The theme of marriage and romance is present everywhere on the site. Visitors can buy omamori (amulets) for love and write their wishes on ema (wooden plaques) that cover the walls of a lush green tunnel on the way to the shrine. Two unique rituals are particularly popular: The Hiraka Throwing: Pilgrims throw small earthenware plates, called hiraka, towards a sacred enclosure. Legend has it that if the hiraka breaks upon hitting the target, bad spirits are warded off, and if the plate lands intact inside the enclosure, the wish will come true. The Votive Koyori: Visitors can also tie colored paper strings, called koyori, to tree branches. Each color has a meaning: pink for love and marital happiness, yellow for business prosperity, or white for the fulfillment of general wishes.

Aoshima Shrine offers more than just a sightseeing tour. It is an invitation to connect with a mythical past, the raw beauty of nature, and the power of spirituality, making every step on this sacred ground a memorable experience.