Aoshima Island & Shrine
Tropical Paradise with Mystical Rock Formations
Aoshima Island has been considered sacred for centuries, with the entire island designated as the shrine's sacred territory until the Meiji period. Commoners were forbidden from setting foot on the island except during annual festivals. This prohibition was lifted in 1737, but the island retained its mystical atmosphere.
The island's most distinctive feature is the 'Devil's Washboard' (Oni no Sentakuita), a geological formation of concentrically layered sandstone and mudstone that has been eroded by waves into a striking rippled pattern. These formations extend around the entire island and are visible at low tide, creating one of Japan's most unusual coastal landscapes.
Aoshima Shrine is dedicated to three deities, including those associated with love and matchmaking. The shrine became particularly popular among couples seeking blessings for romance and marriage. The island's subtropical vegetation, including over 200 plant species, creates a lush jungle-like atmosphere unique in Japan.
Key Highlights
- Unique Devil's Washboard rock formations surrounding the island
- Popular power spot for love and matchmaking
- Over 200 species of subtropical plants
- Small island circumference walkable in 15 minutes
- Colorful shrine with distinctive architecture
- Free access via pedestrian bridge from mainland
Access Information
Location
Aoshima, Miyazaki, 889-2162, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Aoshima Station (JR Nichinan Line) - 15 min walk to island
- • Miyazaki Station - 25 min by train
Opening Hours
Island: Open 24 hours | Shrine: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM (sunset varies by season)
Admission Fee
Free admission
How to Get There
From Miyazaki Station
Take JR Nichinan Line to Aoshima Station (25 minutes, ¥370), then walk 15 minutes to the island
25-30 minutes
From Miyazaki Airport
Take airport bus to Miyazaki Station (25 minutes), then JR Nichinan Line to Aoshima Station
35 minutes
From Miyazaki City Center
Take coastal bus route #21 directly to Aoshima (¥470, hourly service)
30 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Devil's Washboard Viewing
The unique rock formations are best visible during low tide. Check tide schedules before visiting for optimal viewing. The formations extend concentrically around the entire island. Walk carefully as rocks can be slippery. Spring through autumn offers the best conditions; winter waves can make viewing difficult.
Matchmaking Power Spot
Aoshima Shrine is famous for love and matchmaking blessings. Write your wish on an 'undama' (fortune stone), toss it into the target area while making a wish. Pink ema (prayer plaques) are popular among couples. The shrine's unique colorful design makes it highly photogenic.
Best Time to Visit
Early morning (7-9 AM) offers peaceful exploration with beautiful light on the rock formations. Sunset creates stunning golden-hour photos. Avoid midday summer heat as shade is limited. The island is beautifully illuminated during evening hours in summer. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
Island Walk Circuit
The complete circuit around the island takes only 15-20 minutes, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll. A well-maintained path circles the island through subtropical forest. The eastern side offers panoramic ocean views, while the western side faces the dramatic rock formations.
Nearby Beach
Aoshima Beach adjacent to the island is popular for swimming in summer and surfing year-round. The white sand beach stretches for several kilometers with palm trees lining the coast. Beach facilities including showers and restaurants are available. Swimming season is July-August.
Subtropical Vegetation
The island hosts over 200 plant species including giant ferns, pandanus trees, and bougainvillea creating a jungle-like atmosphere. This subtropical vegetation is rare in Japan. Spring brings vibrant flowers. The dense canopy provides shade during summer but can be hot and humid.
Photography Opportunities
The torii gate entrance to the island, the colorful shrine buildings, and the Devil's Washboard formations are all highly photogenic. Visit at sunrise for dramatic lighting with fewer crowds. The contrast between the red torii, blue ocean, and unique rocks creates striking compositions.
Local Specialties
Try seafood restaurants near Aoshima Station serving fresh catch from the Pacific. Local specialties include tai meshi (sea bream rice) and flying fish dishes. The area around the beach has casual cafes and ice cream shops. Convenience stores near the station offer lunch options.
FAQ
How long should I spend at Aoshima Island?
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the island, shrine, and beach. Add another hour if you want to relax on the beach or have lunch at nearby restaurants. The island is small and walkable.
Is Aoshima Island accessible at high tide?
Yes, the island is always accessible via a bridge from the mainland. However, the famous Devil's Washboard rock formations are best viewed at low tide when they're fully exposed.
What is the Devil's Washboard?
It's a unique geological formation of wave-cut rock platforms surrounding the island that look like giant washboards. These 8-million-year-old sandstone formations are best visible during low tide.
Can I swim at Aoshima Beach?
Yes, swimming is popular from June to September. The beach has facilities including showers, changing rooms, and lifeguards during summer. Water temperature is warmest in July and August.
Is the shrine worth visiting?
Yes, Aoshima Shrine is beautiful with its tropical setting among subtropical plants. It's known for matchmaking and safe childbirth blessings. The red torii gate against the blue ocean is photogenic.
Are there wild cats on the island?
No, despite the name similarity, this is not a cat island. You might be thinking of other Japanese cat islands like Tashirojima or Aoshima in Ehime Prefecture.
How crowded does Aoshima get?
Weekends and holidays can be busy, especially in summer. Early mornings and weekdays are quieter. The beach area gets crowded in July-August. New Year sees many shrine visitors.
What's the best time to visit for photos?
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting. Low tide times are essential for photographing the Devil's Washboard. Check tide schedules before visiting.
Can I rent beach equipment?
Yes, during summer months (July-August), beach umbrellas, chairs, and flotation devices are available for rent. Some shops also rent snorkeling gear.
Is the island walkable for elderly visitors?
The bridge and main paths are paved and relatively flat. However, exploring the rocky Devil's Washboard requires careful footing. The shrine has some stairs but alternative routes exist.
Are there restaurants on the island?
The island itself has limited dining options. Most restaurants and cafes are on the mainland side near the beach. Try local Miyazaki specialties like chicken nanban.
Can I see the Devil's Washboard from the bridge?
Yes, you can get good views from the bridge, but walking on the beach and rocks at low tide offers the best experience. Wear appropriate footwear for rocky surfaces.
Is there parking available?
Yes, paid parking is available near the beach and bridge entrance. Fees are around ¥500-700 per day. Parking fills up quickly on summer weekends.
What else can I do nearby?
Udo Shrine is 15 minutes south by car, built in a cave overlooking the ocean. Sun Messe Nichinan with Easter Island statue replicas is 30 minutes away. Miyazaki city center is 30 minutes north.
Are there any festivals at the shrine?
The main festival is in late July featuring traditional performances and fireworks. New Year celebrations are also popular with many visitors seeking good fortune.
Can I collect shells or rocks?
While beachcombing is allowed, the Devil's Washboard is a protected natural monument. Don't remove rocks from these formations. Regular beach shells can be collected in moderation.
Is it worth visiting in winter?
Yes, winter offers clear skies and fewer crowds, though swimming isn't possible. The Devil's Washboard and shrine are enjoyable year-round. Wear warm clothes as ocean winds can be cold.
Are there accommodations nearby?
Several hotels and ryokans are available in the Aoshima area and nearby Miyazaki city. Beach resorts offer ocean views. Book early for summer season.
Is the area affected by typhoons?
Typhoon season (June-October) can bring storms. Check weather forecasts before visiting. The area may close during severe weather for safety.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Takachiho Gorge
A stunning V-shaped gorge formed by ancient volcanic activity, featuring dramatic basalt cliffs up to 100 meters high and the beautiful Manai Falls. A sacred site steeped in Japanese mythology.
Takachiho Shrine & Night Kagura
Ancient shrine famous for nightly performances of sacred Kagura dance, depicting Japanese mythology in a mystical mountain setting.