Floating off the coast of the Chofu castle town in Shimonoseki are two mysterious, uninhabited islands. Covered in primeval forest and strictly off-limits to the public, “Manju” and “Kanju” are not vacation spots—they are living legends. Said to be the physical embodiment of the magical jewels used by Empress Jingu to control the tides, they offer a mystical view against the winter sky.
For the traveler in December 2025, these islands serve as the scenic anchor for a walking tour of Chofu, the “Little Kyoto” of Shimonoseki. While you cannot step foot on them, their silhouette against the clear winter horizon is a sight steeped in 1,800 years of mythology.
🐉 Unveiling the Essence: The Legend of the Tides
Why are two small, wooded islands designated as National Natural Monuments? It comes down to one of Japan’s most famous myths.
The Dragon God’s Gift
Legend holds that before Empress Jingu departed for her expedition to the Korean peninsula, the Dragon God of the Sea (Ryujin) gifted her two magical jewels:
- Kanju (The Ebbing Jewel): To lower the tide and strand enemy ships.
- Manju (The Rising Jewel): To raise the tide and sweep enemies away.
The Birth of the Islands
It is said that upon her victorious return, the Empress cast these jewels into the sea, where they grew into the two islands we see today. They remain the sacred territory (tobichi) of Iminomiya Shrine, preserving a primeval forest that has never been touched by an axe.
⚔️ Your Insider Odyssey: Viewing the Sacred Isles
Since landing is prohibited to preserve the sanctity and nature of the islands, the experience is about finding the perfect vantage point along the Chofu coastline.
1. Toyoura Shrine (Toyokoto Jinja)
- The View: This shrine is located on a hill overlooking the sea. It is widely considered the best photo spot because the Torii gate frames the two islands perfectly, making them look like they are nestling together.
- Winter Bonus: The air in December is crisp, allowing for a sharp, high-contrast view of the islands against the Genkai Sea.
2. Mifunate Coast
- The History: Walk down to the water’s edge. This coastline is where the Heike (Taira) clan once maintained their naval base.
- The Genpei Connection: During the final Battle of Dannoura, the legendary general Minamoto no Yoshitsune is said to have gathered his Genji fleet around Manju and Kanju before launching his attack. Standing here puts you in the footsteps of samurai history.
💎 The Elite Navigator’s Codex: Strategic Insights
- The “Chofu” Stroll: Don’t just visit for the islands. The surrounding area, Chofu, is a preserved samurai town.
- The Route: Start at Iminomiya Shrine (where the islands belong), walk to Kozanji Temple (a National Treasure), stroll through the Chofu Mori Residence garden, and end at Toyoura Shrine for the sunset view of the islands.
- Access Note: Take the bus from JR Shimonoseki Station bound for Chofu/Matsubara.
- For the coast: Get off at “Matsubara” (approx. 20 mins).
- For the castle town: Get off at “Jokamachi-Chofu”.
- Date Check: December 19 (Friday) is a weekday, meaning the Chofu samurai district will be quiet and atmospheric—perfect for photography.
📊 Kyushu Codex: Instant Insights
| Aspect | Details | Expert Reference Tip |
| Spot Name | Manju & Kanju Islands | Manju-Kanju |
| Location | Offshore Chofu, Shimonoseki | Visible from coast |
| Status | Uninhabited / Sacred | No Landing Allowed |
| Legend | Tide-Controlling Jewels | Empress Jingu Myth |
| Best View | Toyoura Shrine | Frames both islands |
| Nearby | Chofu Castle Town | “Little Kyoto” |
| Access | Bus to “Matsubara” | From JR Shimonoseki |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I take a boat to the islands?
A: No. The islands are the sacred property of Iminomiya Shrine and are protected as a National Natural Monument (Primeval Forest). General public landing is strictly prohibited to protect the ecosystem and sanctity.
Q: Which island is which?
A: Manju is the island typically seen on the left (or slightly larger appearance depending on angle), and Kanju is the other. They are often referred to collectively as the “couple” islands or the “jewel” islands.
Q: Is there anything else to do in the area?
A: Absolutely. The viewing spots are located in Chofu, a major tourist district. You can visit the Chofu Mori Residence (famous for autumn leaves and winter gardens) and Kozanji Temple (where Takasugi Shinsaku raised his army) within a 15-minute walk.
🌟 Synthesis
Manju and Kanju are quiet giants of Japanese mythology. While you cannot touch them, standing on the Chofu coast and gazing at these “Jewels of the Dragon God” connects you to a story that predates recorded history.