By／MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Department Compilation Report
 
Japan’s seas are lively indeed！Not only does it have an underwater mailbox and an underwater Christmas tree, but there’s also a uniquely charming underwater shrine — “Suouzaki Shrine.” To pay your respects, you must first dive into the water, accompanied by giant manta rays, whale sharks, and a variety of colorful tropical fish — a truly fascinating experience.

The underwater shrine “Suouzaki Shrine” is situated in Hasama Underwater Park, Chiba Prefecture, Japan. It was established underwater on1996year7month20day as a branch of the “Suouzaki Shrine” in Tateyama City, Chiba. Due to the area’s proximity to the sea, many ships and divers frequent the location. This shrine was built to ensure maritime safety and to pray for peace in Tokyo Bay. However, this shrine, located18meters deep underwater, is generally inaccessible without diving skills.

The most unique feature here is an inflatable tent set up for divers to rest. When divers get tired, they can put their heads inside to breathe air and even enjoy a drink！Additionally, the most popular time to visit for worship is during every9month and12month31New Year’s Eve.9The month is the season for whale shark sightings, so visiting during this time offers the novel experience of swimming alongside these majestic creatures. Furthermore, from12month31day at11PM until50AM on1month1day of the following year at1AM, the site also holds an underwater “Hatsumode” (first shrine visit of the New Year) event to welcome the new year.15points, and here they also hold a "hatsumode" (first shrine visit) event at sea to welcome the New Year.

【Info】
Suo Jinja Shrine in Hazama Kaihin Koen
Location: 1012 Hazama, Tateyama City, Chiba Prefecture
Best time to visit: August–September each year, and the evening of December 31
 

Want to send a letter? First go diving — the world’s most romantic underwater postbox