This shrine stands on Hoogahara facing the Seto Inland Sea. Since the valley was one of the gates to the sea on Yuge Island, the buildings are facing the ocean. The dragon carvings of the main hall is marvelous, and a big round rock, said to be the symbol of man, stands on the premises.
The famous politically-active priest in the 8th century, Dokyo, is said to be enshrined here. Dokyo is from the Yuge Family in Osaka, and he was called Yuge Dokyo. A legend says the island was named after him.
In October, the shrine holds a fall festival. Watch the island residents carry the golden float (a carriage for a god).
A sandy beach in a neat crescent shape stretches along the sea with a promenade of 300-year-old pines. Take a leisurely walk in the breeze along the white sand and green pines which Japanese people have been adoring as an ideal coastal view since ancient times.
In summer, it is opened as Matsubara Swimming Beach to let you swim in the delightful scenery. An outdoor swimming spot and cooking facility are among the pines, serving as family campgrounds.
Highlights
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A shrine facing the sea.
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The dynamic carvings of dragons.
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The beach has white sand and green pines in traditional Japanese beauty.
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A popular swimming beach in summer.
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Family campgrounds available.
