Izanagi Shrine

Izanagi Shrine (伊弉諾神宮) stands on Awaji Island as a profound spiritual site rooted in Japan’s earliest creation myths. According to the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, Awaji was the first island formed from the divine union of the gods Izanagi and Izanami, who stirred the ocean with a heavenly spear. The shrine is believed to be built on the land where the god Izanagi spent his final years, making it one of the oldest and most sacred Shinto shrines in the country. At its heart lies the Meoto-no-Okusu—a pair of ancient camphor trees that fused into a single massive trunk over 900 years ago—revered as a powerful symbol of marriage, harmony, and longevity. Wrapped in a sacred rope, the tree is often photographed by couples seeking divine blessings.

The serene atmosphere of the shrine makes it a popular stop for travelers exploring the island’s spiritual heritage. Traditional Meiji-era wooden structures, raked gravel paths, and guardian lion-dog statues contribute to a timeless ambiance, especially in the soft light of early morning. Pilgrims and tourists alike gather during New Year’s (Hatsumode) to pray for good fortune or to touch the sacred tree, where the spirits of Izanagi and Izanami are believed to dwell. The complex also includes smaller auxiliary shrines, purification fountains, and seasonal events that highlight local customs and folklore. Whether drawn by mythology, romantic symbolism, or cultural tradition, visitors find the shrine a deeply reflective window into Japan’s divine origins.