Aoshima Jinja

Map

History & Origins

According to shrine tradition, Amatsuhiko Hohodemi no Mikoto landed on Aoshima on his return from the palace beneath the sea and built a shrine, but the details of the founding are unknown because old documents were lost in a major earthquake in 1662 (the 2nd year of Kanbun). It was restored in 1503 (the 3rd year of Bunki) by Ito Masasuke, lord of the Obi domain, and received the reverence of the Obi domain throughout the Edo period.

Highlights

The 'Devil's Washboard' that surrounds the island is a wave-cut platform formed by crustal movement about 24 million years ago, named because the uneven rock shelf that appears at low tide looks like a washboard. It is very popular as a deity of matchmaking, and on Coming of Age Day a 'Hadaka-mairi' is held, in which worshippers bathe in the sea to offer prayers. The subtropical plant communities on the island are also worth seeing.

Visitor Guide

It is about a 10-minute walk from Aoshima Station on the JR Nichinan Line, and you cross a bridge onto the island (free). It can be visited year-round, and since the whole of the 'Devil's Washboard' can be seen at low tide, checking the tide table is recommended.

Best Season

Summer (July-August) is also busy with swimmers. Viewing the 'Devil's Washboard' at low tide is memorable if you time your visit. The Hadaka-mairi on Coming of Age Day is also well known.

Blessings

Annual Events

• January (Coming of Age Day)

  Hadaka Mairi (Naked Worship)

  A traditional event held on Coming of Age Day. Worshippers purify themselves in seawater and pray before the deity for safety throughout the year and for their wishes.

• October

  Reisai (Annual Festival)

  The annual festival of Aoshima Jinja, held on October 18. Local parishioners gather to give thanks to the deities and pray for good fishing and a good harvest next year.

Travel Plan

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