Hayao Miyazaki Anime Pilgrimage

Must Do Experiences

• Marvel at the cascading beauty of Shiraito Waterfall, widely believed to be the real-life inspiration for the forest spirits in Princess Mononoke.

• Listen to the hauntingly beautiful natural acoustics at Keya no Oto, a hidden sea cave where the ocean waves create a melodic flute-like sound.

• Witness the romantic sunset over the ocean at Sakurai Futamigaura's Couple Stones, a sacred site reminiscent of the magical gateways in Spirited Away.

Hidden Gems

• Keya no Oto is best experienced when the tide is high and the wind is just right, creating the perfect natural flute sound that most casual visitors miss.

• The mossy rocks surrounding Shiraito Waterfall hide tiny, undisturbed ecosystems that look exactly like the kodama habitats from Studio Ghibli films.

• Sakurai Futamigaura features a stunning torii gate that frames the sunset perfectly between the two rocks during the summer solstice, a secret known mostly to local photographers.

What Makes it Special

• Enjoy a pure sightseeing experience with absolutely no forced shopping stops or hidden fees, letting you fully immerse yourself in the Ghibli magic.

• Travel with peace of mind on a directly operated group tour led by an experienced guide fluent in Chinese, English, and Japanese.

• Venture off the beaten path to carefully selected, mystical locations that perfectly capture the essence of Hayao Miyazaki's animated masterpieces.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Early morning departures offer the most serene atmosphere at Shiraito Waterfall, allowing you to capture the misty, magical forest vibes before the crowds arrive. Late spring to early autumn provides the best weather for exploring the coastal sea caves and witnessing vibrant sunsets at the Couple Stones.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Use a slow shutter speed or a smartphone portrait mode at Shiraito Waterfall to capture the silky, ethereal flow of the water that mimics the animated forest streams.

• Position yourself at the Sakurai Futamigaura shoreline during the golden hour just before sunset to capture the iconic torii gate silhouetted against the glowing sky and the Couple Stones.

• Avoid using flash inside or near the Keya no Oto sea cave to preserve the natural, moody lighting and respect the tranquil environment.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When visiting the sacred Couple Stones and surrounding Shinto shrines, it is customary to bow slightly before passing through the torii gates and to walk along the sides rather than the center of the path. Please maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor at Keya no Oto, as locals consider the natural sounds of the cave to be a spiritual experience.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Visit during the summer solstice in June to witness the spectacular sunset aligning perfectly between the Couple Stones and the ocean horizon.

• Experience the vibrant autumn foliage in November, which transforms the forests around Shiraito Waterfall into a breathtaking canvas of red and gold reminiscent of Totoro's woodland.

• Join the local New Year shrine visits in early January to see the Couple Stones adorned with traditional shimenawa ropes and festive decorations.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Stay strictly on the marked pathways around Shiraito Waterfall, as the moss-covered rocks near the water's edge can be extremely slippery.

• Keep a safe distance from the edge of the cliffs and sea caves at Keya no Oto, especially during high tide or windy days when waves can be unpredictable.

• Follow your guide's instructions regarding equipment usage and tide schedules to ensure a safe exploration of the coastal areas.