The Deities Who Wait Beyond a Breathtaking View: A Hike to Isawa Shrine

By Christopher Douglas

Local in Toba

If you are looking for a short hike that perfectly captures the relationship between Toba’s forests and the sea, the trail to Isawa Shrine in Arashima is one of my top recommendations. The locals often refer to it as Kaburako-san. This trail takes you through quiet wooded sections and a bamboo area that feels like a small, wild version of Kyoto’s Arashiyama. It eventually opens up to a secluded beach right before the final climb to the actual shrine. Going a little further past the shrine takes you to the end of the cape, where you can get a tree-framed view of the ocean below.

The shrine itself is dedicated to several deities and serves as a spiritual anchor for the local fishing communities. While the hike is relatively accessible, it offers a sense of peace that feels miles away from the busier parts of town. I find that the quiet atmosphere of the hike is the perfect place to pause and appreciate the coastal landscape. The trail is close enough to reach by bicycle, so don’t be afraid to grab a rental cycle from Toba Station. Hopping on a city bus bound for Arashima is also an option.

This hike is just one of many ways to explore the local terrain. For a complete guide on trail markers, difficulty levels, and detailed maps for this route and others, please visit the external Ise Shima Hiking site. A detailed brochure can also be found on the Japan National Parks website.

Things to Keep in Mind

Take care while walking on the trail. After rain, the path can be slippery in places, so please exercise caution.