Fukutsu Itoshima Yuraen - Sakurai Shrine + Couple Rocks

Today, we're heading to Itoshima, Fukuoka, to tie the knot:
1. Visit Sakurai Shrine
2. See the white Ujiri and Married Couple Rocks in front of the shrine

It's only a 45-minute drive from Fukuoka Hakata to Itoshima, with parking and a café nearby, making it very convenient.
Sakurai Shrine has a long history, and later became a popular spot for prayers and photo-ops for both locals and tourists thanks to the Japanese band member Sakurai. The story behind Married Couple Rocks is even more unique; for more information, please visit online.

Sakurai Shrine is said to be over 600 years old. The two deities enshrined here symbolize a happy marriage and marital harmony. Parents also pray for their children's academic and career success. The shrine is generally visited by both locals and tourists. Before entering, be sure to cleanse your hands and soul at the wash basin in front of the torii gate!

"Meiwa" (Married Couple Rocks) consists of a pair of rocks, one large (husband) and one small (wife), situated on the seashore, connected by a shime-rope. A white torii gate stands in front, symbolizing a swift marriage and a lifelong marriage. Tourists are the main visitors who take photos and check in.

There are also many other popular check-in spots nearby, such as:
1. Ooto Shinkutu (Holy Sea Cave)
2. Itoshima’s Totoro Forest

My favorite spot is the nearby "London Bus." You can get off the bus to enjoy the sea breeze, take a break, check in, and enjoy ice cream and soda—a real treat on a hot summer day.

Finally, we went to the nearby "Seafood Shirahamaya" for lunch. It was already around 2:00 PM, and the main dish was grilled seafood. The oysters, scallops, and prawns were all very fresh. Reservations are usually required online, but they are often fully booked. Today, we walked in without having to wait for a table, which was incredibly smooth. Thank you! #KyushuTravel #Itoshima

Post by Cavin Chang | Aug 18, 2025