The Wedded Rocks (Meotoiwa) at Futami

2013/07/31 Wednesday Culture and Leisure., Exploring-Mie

This video will introduce Futami’s Wedded Rocks (also known as Meotoiwa), famous sightseeing destination in Mie Prefecture.

Meotoiwa is made up of two rock formations off the coast of Futami that are connected by a shimenawa, a thick rope used in Shinto shrines and rituals.

A torii gate sits atop the larger of the two rock formations, which represents masculinity. The smaller rock formation symbolizes feminity. Together, they represent the bond between husband and wife.

meotoiwa

It is truely a sight to behold, and many visitors feel moved as they look upon the Wedded Rocks set against the vast ocean

Visitors can also visit Futami Okitama Shrine, which is located adjacent to The Wedded Rocks.

There is no admission fee to see the Wedded Rocks.

There are also restaurants, local goods shops, shops that sell local seafood and snacks, as well as an aquarium nearby.

Getting to the Wedded Rocks

The Wedded Rocks are located in Futami, which is a town in Ise City.

mapa meotoiwa futami

Visitors arriving by car should take the Ise IC Highway to the Ise Futami Toba Line and exit at Futami Junction towards Futami. Those that want to avoid highways should take National Rt. 23 and take a left onto National Rd. 42 towards Futami after passing the on ramp for the Toricho IC. Visitors should see the entrance to the Wedded Rocks on their left after then turning left at the intersection labeled “chaya” (茶屋) and driving a short distance.

Those visiting by Kintetsu Railway should get off at Ujiyamada Station and ride a bus bound for Toba to the “Meotoiwa Higashi Guchi” (夫婦岩東口)bus stop. Alternatively, visitors can also ride JR to Futamiura Station, which is 15 mins walking distance from the Wedded Rocks.