Izanagi Shrine

Izanagi Shrine is revered as the oldest shrine in Japan, with roots tracing back to the mythological age described in the Kojiki, Japan's oldest historical record. According to the creation myth, the deities Izanagi and Izanami stood on the Floating Bridge of Heaven and stirred the sea with a jeweled spear, creating Onogoro Island — believed to be Awaji Island — as the first land of Japan. After completing the creation of the islands, Izanagi retired to this spot. The shrine grounds feature a massive paired camphor tree (meoto okusu), estimated to be over 900 years old, where two trees have naturally fused into one — a symbol of marital harmony. The tranquil precincts feel appropriately ancient, with towering trees and a serene atmosphere far removed from the bustle of more famous shrines. Designated as the ichinomiya (first-ranked shrine) of Awaji Province, it remains an important pilgrimage site.