Izawa Shrine

Izawa Shrine, located in Toba City, Mie Prefecture, is a venerable ancient shrine long revered as an ichinomiya (first shrine) of Shima Province. Tucked quietly in the cape forest of Arashima overlooking the sea, it has long been affectionately known to locals as Kaburako-san. Known for blessings of matchmaking, it is a little-known hidden power spot where the very journey to the shrine is mystical.

Highlights

• Seaside Approach: From the bus stop and parking area to the main hall, an approach continues along the coast and through the cape forest. The path, traveled to the sound of waves, is itself a time of purification.
• Blessings of Matchmaking: Prestigious as an ichinomiya of Shima Province, it is quietly visited by worshippers wishing for good matches. The current buildings were arranged in recent years, showing a pure shinmei-zukuri form.
• Stunning View from the Cape: Partway along the approach, a beautiful view opens out over the blue sea of Ise Bay and its islands.

Enjoying the Seasons

With the openness unique to the seaside, the mild weather from spring to autumn is best for worship. In summer the contrast of blue sea and green is beautiful, and in winter you can worship quietly in crisp air. Visiting it along with a trip to enjoy Toba seafood is also recommended.

Access and Basic Information

• Location: 1210 Arashima-cho, Toba City, Mie Prefecture
• Access: From Toba Station (Kintetsu and JR), take the Kamome bus to the Arashima bus stop. From the bus stop to the main hall, about a 40-minute walk along the coast and through the forest approach. Coming by car is also convenient.
• Hours: Daytime (the bright hours are recommended as you walk the approach)
• Admission: Free

Practical Travel Notes

• Recommended Season and Time: A sunny daytime is safest. Since the approach passes through nature, be sure to finish worship while it is light.
• Time Needed: About 40 minutes one way from the bus stop to the main hall; figure around two hours for the round trip and worship for peace of mind.
• Avoiding Crowds: A quiet ancient shrine with few worshippers to begin with. It is a spot where you can often worship at leisure even on weekends.
• Nearby Spots: Pairing it with the Toba Aquarium, Mikimoto Pearl Island, Ishigami-san in Osatsu, and the Ise Grand Shrine area makes for a fuller trip.
• Budget Sense: Worship is free. Even including transport and a meal in Toba, it is easy to enjoy affordably.

A Quick Tip

The approach to the main hall walks through nature and takes about 40 minutes one way. Comfortable shoes and easy-to-move-in clothing are essential, and bring drinks as well. As the condition of the coastal path can change with the tides, visit with time to spare and while it is light. This is perfect for those seeking a slightly special matchmaking visit on a trip to the Toba and Ise area.

📚 Sources

Information handed down about Izawa Shrine and guidance from the Toba City Tourism Association are helpful for its history as the Ichinomiya of Shima Province and the state of the approach. The operator’s public information can also be checked for the Kamome bus timetable.

As the approach runs through nature, worshipping during daylight is reassuring. Fees, hours, and access may change, so please confirm with official sources before you set out.

Visitor Checklist

• Time needed: About 40 minutes one way from the bus stop to the main hall; allow roughly two hours round trip including worship.
• What to bring: The approach runs along the shore and through forest, so comfortable shoes and easy-to-move clothing are essential; bring drinks as well.
• Suggested route: Walk the shoreline and cape-forest approach from the Arashima bus stop to the main hall; touring with Toba Aquarium, Mikimoto Pearl Island, and Ishigami-san in Osatsu makes a full itinerary.