Kabushima Shrine

About this Attraction

Kabushima Shrine, perched at the northernmost tip of the scenic Tanesashi Coast in Hachinohe, Aomori Prefecture, is a remarkable fusion of natural wonder and cultural significance. This sacred site is nestled on Kabushima, a unique landform once an isolated island. In 1942, the Japanese army reclaimed the surrounding land, linking it to the mainland and transforming it into the landlocked island we see today. The area is internationally recognised for its ecological importance, having been designated a national natural monument, and has earned high praise from TripAdvisor for its beauty and significance. What makes Kabushima truly special is that it serves as Japan’s only up-close petrel breeding ground, drawing nature lovers, bird watchers, and photographers from across the country. Around April each year, thousands of black-tailed gulls—numbering between 30,000 and 40,000—flock to the island to lay their eggs, filling the air with their calls and creating a striking spectacle of white feathers against the vivid landscape. By June, their chicks emerge, adding to the vibrant energy of this ecological haven. At the top of the island stands Kabushima Shrine, or “Kabura-jima Shrine,” renowned for bringing good fortune in finance and popularity. This belief stems from a Japanese wordplay, where “kabura” can mean both “turnip” and “stock,” making the shrine a symbolic site for those wishing success in the stock market. Beyond its spiritual charm, the island offers seasonal visual splendor—especially in mid-May, when fields of bright yellow rape blossoms bloom. The scene becomes a breathtaking canvas painted in yellow flowers, the red torii gate of the shrine, white-feathered gulls, and the expansive blue sky. For visitors, the surrounding area is just as appealing. The Kabura-jima Rest Area features panoramic windows that are perfect for observing the gulls and shoreline without disturbing the environment. Nearby, Kabura-jima Promenade Park offers picnic and barbecue spots with coastal views, and the Mariento Fisheries Science Museum provides a deeper understanding of the local marine ecosystem. Whether you're seeking spiritual energy, a unique wildlife experience, or simply a peaceful coastal stroll surrounded by nature’s colours and sounds, Kabushima Shrine is an unforgettable destination blending natural beauty, tradition, and biodiversity in perfect harmony.