The shrine features a 'Ryugu no Shiofuki' (Dragon Palace Geyser) phenomenon where sea water is forced through a crevice in the rocks, creating a spray that can reach heights of up to 30 meters.
The donation box located atop the first torii gate is widely cited as one of the most difficult to reach in Japan.
The 123 torii gates were donated over a period of 10 years by devotees seeking divine favor.
The name Motonosumi is derived from the original deity transferred from the Taikodani Inari Shrine.
Motonosumi Shrine is defined by a sequence of 123 vermilion torii gates that stretch 100 meters from the coastline up a hillside. The shrine was established in 1955 following a vision by a local fisherman who claimed a white fox deity appeared to him. It is officially dedicated to a deity split from the Taikodani Inari Shrine in Shimane Prefecture. The path leads from the rugged cliffs of the Sea of Japan to the hillside forest. A large wooden donation box is mounted high above the ground on the main torii gate at the entrance; successfully tossing a coin into it is considered a sign of good luck. The site remains a popular pilgrimage spot for those seeking success in business, academic achievement, and fertility. The path is narrow and requires walking along stone steps that follow the natural topography of the hill.
From the bottom of the torii gate path looking upwards, framing the red gates against the blue sea and green hillside.
Bring a pair of sturdy, comfortable walking shoes as the stone steps are uneven and occasionally steep.
Visit on a weekday to avoid the significant crowds that gather for photos, as the narrow path creates a bottleneck.
Check the weather forecast for strong winds, which can make the coastal cliff path challenging to navigate.
Avoid attempting to visit during major Japanese holidays, when narrow access roads become heavily congested with traffic.
Respect the sanctity of the shrine by remaining quiet; do not touch or lean on the torii gates, as they are considered sacred structures.
