⛩️ Motonosumi Shrine元乃隅神社

Motonosumi Shrine is located in Yuyakutsu, Nagato City, and is a representative energy spot of Yamaguchi Prefecture. According to legend, in 1955 (Showa 30), a local fisherman named Okamura Sadao dreamed of a white fox who said, "It is under my protection that you have had years of abundant catches; you should quickly build a shrine to honor me." In the dream, the fox clearly described relevant details from the past. This led to the construction of Motonosumi Shrine. Motonosumi Shrine enshrines deities that bless business prosperity, abundant catches, safe navigation, good relationships, child protection, fortune and disaster prevention, traffic safety, academic achievements, and the realization of wishes. Above the 6-meter tall torii gate in the shrine, there is a donation box for offering incense money, and it is said that if you can drop your offering into the box, your wish will come true. The sight of 123 vermilion torii gates standing like dominoes facing the azure sea is breathtaking. It has also been selected by CNN as one of the "31 Most Beautiful Spots in Japan." Passing through the torii gates, you will reach a cliff with a panoramic view of the Sea of Japan, where you can find the designated national natural monument "Ryugu's Spout." This is a natural phenomenon where seawater is spouted upwards due to the impact of waves, resembling a flying dragon soaring into the sky. It is worth visiting while you are at the shrine.

The 123 torii gates standing on the cliffs overlooking the sea are truly breathtaking. Challenge yourself with the "most difficult offering box in Japan," which is said to grant wishes if you manage to throw in a coin. Don't miss the "Ryugu no Shiofuki," designated as a national natural monument and scenic spot.