Okinoshima

Log in to your account

AroundUs is a community-driven map of interesting places, built by curious explorers like you. It grows with every review, story, and photo you share.
Connect to save your favorite spots, contribute locations, and create personalized routes.
By continuing, you accept our Terms and Conditions and our Privacy Policy
Add to collection
Map
Suggest a change
Share

Okinoshima, Sacred island in Munakata, Japan.

Located 60 kilometers off Fukuoka Prefecture, Okinoshima rises 244 meters above sea level and extends across one square kilometer of the Sea of Japan.

The island served as a maritime navigation point between Japan and Korea from the 4th century, containing 80,000 artifacts including gold rings from ancient trade routes.

The Okitsu-gu Shrine, established in the mid-17th century, stands on this island where Shinto priests perform traditional rituals and maintain sacred practices.

Access to Okinoshima requires special permission and remains limited to male Shinto priests and authorized scientists for preservation and religious purposes.

A solitary monk resides on the island, rotating with two dozen other Shinto priests who stay for ten-day intervals to guard and maintain the sacred grounds.

Location: Munakata

Elevation above the sea: 244 m

Part of: Japanese archipelago, Sacred Island of Okinoshima and Associated Sites in the Munakata Region

GPS coordinates: 34.24428,130.10576

Latest update: May 27, 2025 20:30

Reviews

Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.

« Okinoshima: Sacred island in Munakata, Japan » is provided by Around Us (aroundus.com). Images and texts are derived from Wikimedia project under a Creative Commons license. You are allowed to copy, distribute, and modify copies of this page, under the conditions set by the license, as long as this note is clearly visible.

Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!

From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.

Around Us App Screenshot

A unique approach to discovering new places

Le Figaro

All the places worth exploring

France Info

A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks

20 Minutes