Aoshima Island and Aoshima Shrine

青島神社

Aoshima is a small island about 1.5 km around, joined to the shore by a bridge, with Aoshima Shrine at its center. The shrine sits inside a thick, tropical forest, and more than 200 kinds of plants grow on the island. The island is surrounded by wave-like rocks called the Devil's Washboard, a national natural monument. At low tide, visitors can see these rocks clearly near the shore.

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Visitor information

Getting there

About 10 minutes on foot from JR Aoshima Station.

By car, about 25 minutes from Miyazaki Station.

Hours and fees can change. Please check the official website before you go.

Good to know

Cars cannot enter the island; use the parking lots near the entrance of the Aoshima approach road.
The parking lot in front of JR Aoshima Station is free from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Devil's Washboard rocks are best seen at low tide.

Tips for Muslim visitors

The whole of Aoshima island (about 1.5 km around) is the shrine's grounds.
The 'Devil's Washboard' rocks are best seen at low tide. Wet or mossy spots are slippery, so wear comfortable shoes.
Sunrise is especially recommended for viewing the rocks.
Shinto shrines are open to everyone. Bowing, clapping and washing at the purification basin are optional; you can simply look around.
Shrines are usually busiest at New Year and during festivals. Early morning is often the calmest time to visit.
Charms, fortune slips and votive tablets are religious items. You do not need to buy or use them.
Plan your visit around prayer times. Below are today's prayer times for Miyazaki and the verified places to pray nearby.
Food stalls and shops near popular sights usually do not have halal certification. Check the ingredients, or choose from the verified places on this site.