Ondake Shrine

In Ashibe on Iki Island in Nagasaki Prefecture, Ondake Shrine is known as one of the leading power spots of Iki. Until the Meiji era the entire mountain was regarded as the body of the deity, and ordinary people were restricted from entering this sacred place. In mythology it is said to be where the first god descended when Iki Island was born.

The enshrined deity, Sarutahiko no Mikoto, is the guiding god. He is revered as a deity who leads matters in a good direction, from prosperity in business and success in study to advancement, fortune, and matchmaking.

Highlights

- More than three hundred stone monkeys offered by worshippers whose wishes came true - A magnetic force at the sacred rock behind the worship hall that disturbs a compass needle - A storied shrine dedicated to Sarutahiko, the guiding god - A sacred atmosphere where the whole mountain was once seen as the body of the deity

Enjoying the Seasons

In spring fresh greenery wraps the stone monkeys, and in summer deep green casts cool shadows. Autumn colors the trees of the precinct, and in winter you can worship quietly in clear air. In every season you can feel the mysterious atmosphere unique to this island of myth.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Hakozaki, Ashibe, Iki City, Nagasaki Prefecture - Access: About fifteen minutes by car from Ashibe Port - Parking: Available - Visiting together with the neighboring Medake Shrine is also recommended

A Quick Tip

Bring a compass or the compass on your phone to experience the strange magnetism of the sacred rock. Looking at the expression of each of the three hundred stone monkeys one by one is part of the fun.