🗺️ Seki Island City, Sakurai Futamiura糸島市 桜井二見ヶ浦

Located in the northern part of Kishi Island City, Sakurai Futamiura offers a stunning view of the Genkai Sea. It has been selected as one of the "Top 100 Beaches in Japan," making it a representative scenic spot of Fukuoka and a must-visit destination when driving around Kishi Island. The Sakurai Shrine, built by the second lord of the Fukuoka domain, Kuroda Tadayuki, is a sacred site that has been revered since ancient times. The pure white torii gate standing in front of the azure sea leaves a deep impression. About 150 meters off the coast are the Meoto Iwa (夫婦岩), or "Wedded Rocks," consisting of the male rock at 11.8 meters high and the female rock at 11.2 meters high, connected by a large shimenawa (注連縄). Sakurai Futamiura is considered the sacred body of Sakurai Shrine, and it was once said to be "the entrance to the Dragon Palace." The floating Meoto Iwa is a well-known attraction, alongside Futamiura in Ise City, Mie Prefecture. In spring, the sea is calm, while in winter, the waves are tumultuous, showcasing different sceneries with the changing seasons, making Futamiura a popular photography spot. The beauty of the sunset, selected as one of the "Top 100 Sunsets in Japan," is particularly stunning around the summer solstice when the sun sets between the Meoto Iwa, attracting the most tourists during this time of year. Additionally, around the 16th day of the 11th lunar month, the sight of the moon hanging between the Meoto Iwa is also worth seeing.

Compared to Ise Futamiura, known as "Asahi Futamiura" (Morning Sun Futamiura), Fukuoka Futamiura is famous for its "Yūhi Futamiura" (Evening Sun Futamiura). During the spring tide from late April to early May, a shimenawa (sacred rope) about 30 meters long and weighing 1 ton is tied to connect the Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks). The area is also home to stylish cafes and restaurants, making it a popular cruising route.