Miyagashima Ebisu Shrine

Enshrined on a reef called Miyagashima floating off the Kohama coast in Masuda City, Shimane Prefecture, Ebisu Shrine is a scenic shrine called the Mont Saint Michel of Sanin because its appearance changes with the rising and falling tides. It enshrines the deity Ebisu, a god of fishing, and its charm is the unique experience of walking across a sandy approach that appears only at low tide.

Highlights

- The special experience of crossing to the island on a sandy approach that appears only at low tide - The ever changing scenery, which at high tide looks like a small island floating on the sea - A painting like view woven from the blue sea, the reef, and the white torii gate - The beautiful Kohama coast, which a master of Japanese painting used as the model for a palace mural

Enjoying the Seasons

From spring into summer the contrast of blue sea and sky is vivid and photogenic. At dusk the sun setting into the sea and the silhouette of the shrine overlap in a dreamlike way. In autumn the sea view grows even more beautiful in the clear air, and in winter the rough waves of the Sea of Japan show a powerful expression.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Kohamacho, Masuda City, Shimane Prefecture - Easiest to reach by car - Whether you can walk across the approach depends on the tide, so checking a tide table in advance is essential - You cannot cross to the island at high tide, so aim for the low tide hours

A Quick Tip

If you want to walk across the approach, be sure to look up the low tide times for the day you visit. On days with high waves, do not push it and instead enjoy the view from the shore for safety. The scenery at dusk is also exceptional, so visit with time to spare.