What is the Stunning “Motonosumi Shrine” in Nagato City Featured by CNN?

123 Torii Gates Standing Along a Dramatic Cliff Overlooking the Sea of Japan

Located in Nagato City, Motonosumi Shrine was built following a divine message from a white fox, creating a sacred place that blends spirituality with stunning natural beauty.

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Breathtaking Scenery Draws Over a Million Visitors

The stunning views of Motonosumi Shrine garnered widespread attention, attracting over 1.08 million visitors in 2017. That same year, Nagato City recorded over 2 million visitors for the first time since surveys began in 1966.

In 2018, the momentum continued, with visitor numbers exceeding the previous year’s pace.

However, the surge in popularity brought challenges, particularly severe traffic congestion. Access to the shrine requires a 20-minute drive through mountainous roads from the nearest station, and the limited parking spaces near the cliffs led to long waits as visitors struggled to find spots.

To address these issues, a new parking area and visitor facilities were constructed just before Golden Week. We went on-site to explore the newly improved amenities!

Accommodating Over 90 Cars and Tourist Buses

Despite it being a weekday with rainy weather on the day of our visit, the new parking area was already hosting several tourist buses and cars.

The well-maintained lot now accommodates 92 passenger vehicles and 6 large tourist buses, significantly improving access for visitors.

※See Nagato City website.

The Moment Motonosumi Shrine Gained International Fame

Motonosumi Shrine shot to fame when it was featured in the “Japan’s 31 Most Beautiful Places” list published by the American news network CNN on its website.

Additionally, the shrine gained further recognition when Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who hails from the Yuya area of Nagato City, introduced it on a popular TV program.

The Unique Feature Atop the Grand Torii Gate

One of the highlights that brought fame to Motonosumi Inari Shrine is the Grand Torii Gate located within the shrine grounds.

Standing at approximately 6 meters tall, it features a highly unusual element: a saisen box (offering box) placed at the very top of the gate.

This unique feature was also showcased on a popular TV program, gaining widespread attention for its rarity and further solidifying the shrine’s reputation.

During our visit, we observed groups of women tourists enthusiastically trying their luck at tossing coins into the saisen box atop the torii gate.

Majestic “Ryugu no Shiohuki”

During the winter months, visitors can marvel at the natural spectacle known as “Ryugu no Shiofuki”, a blowhole phenomenon where seawater is forcefully ejected into the air.

On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of a rainbow forming in the spray. This rare natural event, which depends on just the right conditions, has become one of the shrine’s most captivating attractions.

“Motonosumi Store” – A Place to Find Unique Souvenirs

The “Motonosumi Store” – Established Alongside the New Parking Area.

Inside the shop, you’ll find a wide variety of souvenirs, including Nagato City’s specialty products, all neatly arranged to showcase the region’s charm.

Previously, there were no shops in the area, making the newly opened souvenir store a delightful addition for tourists.

In closing

This year, Motonosumi Shrine is welcoming even more visitors than the previous year, solidifying its place as one of Yamaguchi’s most popular attractions.

Just a short drive away, you’ll find other breathtaking spots, such as Senjojiki, a scenic plateau in Nagato City, and the newly established Michi-no-Eki Senzaki Kitchen, a vibrant hub for local culture and cuisine. Head west, and you’ll reach the famous Tsunoshima Bridge, ranked number one in TripAdvisor’s “Top Bridges in Japan” list based on traveler reviews.

This area is a perfect destination for a scenic road trip. Why not come and experience the grandeur of these views for yourself?