By MOOK Scenic Spots Zhang Yingying, compiled and translated
Japan’s Okinoshima Island gains World Heritage status. (Image source: Munakata Taisha)
Known as the “Island of the Gods” (where gods reside), Okinoshima is located about 60 kilometers off the coast of mainland Kyushu and is considered sacred ground belonging to the Munakata Taisha. For a long time, only Shinto priests from Okitsu Shrine were permitted on the island. It opens to just 200 men once a year—on May 27. Before setting foot on the island, they must strip naked and purify themselves in the sea. The prohibition of women has been a longstanding religious tradition. Even today, male priests residing on the island must still dive into the sea and cleanse themselves before going ashore. Situated between Kyushu and the Korean Peninsula, Okinoshima held significant spiritual importance for maritime safety and cultural exchange from the 4th to the 9th centuries. Due to its reverence for nature, the island remains largely untouched by modern civilization, with around 80,000 ritual offerings unearthed, earning it the nickname “The Shōsōin of the Sea.”
Okitsu Shrine on Okinoshima Island. (Image source: Munakata City, Fukuoka)
In January 2015, the local government of Munakata City in Fukuoka Prefecture applied to UNESCO. The organization recognized the archaeological and historical value of Okinoshima, as well as the Munakata Taisha's preservation of ancient faith traditions and deep humanistic significance, thus approving its recommendation for World Heritage status. Upon learning of the official designation, on July 10, Munakata Taisha saw an influx of worshippers, with local residents expressing great excitement and a strong celebratory atmosphere. Moving forward, the Japanese government will officially rename Okinoshima as “Okinoshima: The Island Where Gods Dwell” (神宿る島 沖ノ島). Since multiple islands in Japan share the name “Okinoshima,” this renaming helps clarify which specific island holds the World Heritage status.
Nakatsu Shrine on the main island. (Image source: Munakata City, Fukuoka)
Japan is continuing to push for the registration of additional World Heritage sites, including the Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region and the Amakusa Region. The Nagasaki churches and the Hara Castle Ruins in Amakusa are both significant cultural assets. The Japanese government aims to have this area registered as a World Cultural Heritage site in 2018.