Meoto Iwa (Wedded Rocks) — Local services in Ise

After living in Japan for five years I finally made the trip over to see Meoto Iwa.

Surprisingly it wasn’t crowded at all! There were small groups of people walking around but no line to take photos. If you’re going here by car try to use the free parking to the left of the rocks and nearby shrine. The other parking we saw was ¥800-¥1000. It was a very relaxing experience until…this European dude and his girlfriend showed up.

I can’t believe this has to be said, but please don’t climb over the fence and then proceed to climb onto the rock and “meditate” on it for twenty minutes while your girlfriend takes pictures of you. It’s a sacred site for Japanese people and you are supposed to enjoy it from afar. Many Japanese people wanting to take pictures either had to wait or just have a random dude in their photos. I know more foreigners are visiting Japan lately. Please respect the rules. You don’t need a sign to tell you this isn’t ok. Anyone with common sense knows you shouldn’t do this. This is the kind of thing that makes sacred sites like this one shut off from visitors. Please don’t ruin everyone else’s experience. Most Japanese people aren’t super confrontational, but the twenty or so people who walked by when this was going on were verbally commenting on how inappropriate it was.

Incidents like this can really ruin the way locals see foreigners. For us who live here, and for those who are traveling respectfully, don’t do stuff like this. Thanks.

Still giving five stars because it’s not the rocks fault a random dude climbed on...

In the winter, it's very cold and windy, but worthy. Not crowded on Friday afternoon. We took CAN bus from Naiku-mae to Ise Sea Paradise -mae, approx. 26 minutes, then passed through a carpark, and Futamiura Jinja Shrine. The Wedded Rocks were in the sea off Futami Okitama Jinja Shrine. The 9-meter husband rock and the 4-meter wife rock are joined by a Shimenawa (thick rice straw) rope. It the past, Japanese thought theres rocks were a gate separating the divine world from the human world. Now, they represent happy marriage. The rope will be renewed every May, September, and December. From May to July: The sun rises exactly between 2 rocks. From November to January: The full moon appears between 2 rocks

Transport: 1) Mie Kotsu Bus CAN bus (or Bus 41 from Iseshi station To Toba), get off at Ise Sea Paradise-mae, 2)15 minutes walks from JR Futaminoura station, 3) by car, free...

Meoto Iwa, also known as the Married Couple Rocks, is an iconic symbol of love between husband and wife that is revered in Japan. This beautiful landmark is not only easily accessible but also located in close proximity to a shopping center, amusement park, and several restaurants, making it an ideal destination for couples and families alike.

The stunning sight of the Meoto Iwa rocks rising majestically out of the sea is a sight to behold, and the romantic significance of this place only adds to its allure. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the nearby beach or simply sit and admire the stunning views while basking in the peaceful atmosphere.

Moreover, the convenience of having a shopping center, amusement park, and numerous restaurants nearby makes this place an excellent choice for those looking to combine a visit to the Married Couple Rocks with a day of fun and...