Overview
Amanoiwato Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Takachiho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture. Divided by the Iwato River into an East Main Shrine and a West Main Shrine, it is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. Famed as the stage of the Ama-no-Iwato legend in which the goddess hid herself away, it is a leading sacred site of Takachiho, wrapped in an air of myth and faith.
Highlights
- ●Sacred site of the cave legend, dedicated to Amaterasu
- ●East and West Main Shrines across the Iwato River
- ●The Ama-no-Iwato cave viewed on the far bank
- ●A Beppyo shrine of the Association of Shinto Shrines
History
The East and West Main Shrines stand on either side of the Iwato River; the shrine's former rank was village shrine (mura-sha) and it is a Beppyo shrine of the Association of Shinto Shrines. From the West Main Shrine, worshippers have revered the Ama-no-Iwato cave across the river, where Amaterasu is said to have hidden, as an object of ritual.
Access
It lies in Takachiho, Nishiusuki District, Miyazaki Prefecture, with the East and West Main Shrines set apart along the Iwato River gorge. Because of the ravine terrain, it helps to keep the layout of the two shrines in mind when visiting; please confirm exact routes and transport on maps or official information.
Best season
To savor the quiet tied to the legend, the clear-aired morning hours are recommended. In spring and autumn, when fresh greenery or foliage colors the gorge, the scenery along the Iwato River feels all the more beautiful.
Map
32.7344, 131.3506 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Worship at the West Main Shrine and meet the cave legend
- 2Receive the ritual and view Ama-no-Iwato across the river
- 3Cross the Iwato River to the East Main Shrine
- 4Take in the gorge-side air of Takachiho
Did you know?
💡 The sacred Ama-no-Iwato cave lies across the river from the West Main Shrine, and it is said one may view it from afar after receiving a Shinto ritual of purification.
Nearby spots
Traveler reviews0
No reviews yet. Be the first to share!