Motonosumiinari Shrine is located in Nagato City, Yamaguchi Prefecture. It was recently selected as one of "Japan's 31 most beautiful places" by CNN.

It's actually a re l hidden gem: not a lot of Japanese people know about this place either.

Selected by CNN, right alongside world heritage sites!

CNN's "Japan's 31 most beautiful places" features some of the best sceneries in Japan.

The list includes a well-known places like Kinkaku-ji (the golden pavilion temple) in Kyoto and Tottori Sand Dunes, as well as places that have become popular recently such as Kawachifujien.

The good thing about the list is that it gives a perspective from people outside of Japan. That's why a relatively obscure place like Motonosumiinari Shrine is selected.

A long row of Torii - 123 of them!

The highlight of Motonosumiinari Shrine is the row full of Torii. It reminds you of Fushimiinari Taisha in Kyoto - but in a totally different backdrop... Stunning! No wonder the number of visitors have been steadily increasing.

Japan's "most difficult to reach" offertory box!

While it is customary to have offertory boxes in shrines, but this shrine's offertory box is located in a peculiar place.

It's at the top of a 5-meter tall Torii. And the size of the box is smaller than most.

Most shrines forbid coins to be thrown, but, due to the location of the offertory box, Motonosumiinari Shrine allows it. Even then, aiming your coin is not easy.

There's a natural monument right nearby!

This long row of Torii leads to the ocean that is home to "Ryugu no Shiofuki" - a natural monument as specified by the government.

In winter, big waves enters the gaps between rocks, making distinctive sound. The pressurized water shoots up the sky - sometimes over 30 meters tall!

We think it's a must-see. Do make sure you visit this place if you are in Yamaguchi prefecture!