Amanoiwato Jinja Shrine

Amanoiwato Jinja Shrine is a historical Shinto shrine in the Takachiho area in Miyazaki Prefecture. Its Western shrine is dedicated to the worship of the Amanoiwato Cave which plays a prominent role in Japan's ancient myths. The sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami is said to have hidden here because she was upset at her brother's pranks which led to the sunlight temporarily disappearing from the world. The other deities eventually succeeded in luring her outside the cave through performing music and dance. The Amanoiwato Cave cannot be accessed directly but can be seen from afar. However, one mythical cave you can access is located at a nearby river. It is called Amano Yasukawara Cave and is the location where the deities met to consult about how to lure Amaterasu outside the cave and restore the light in the world. The path leading to the cave is lined with stone stacks created by pilgrims and there is a small shrine inside. If you are interested in Japanese mythology, Amanoiwato Shrine and its surroundings are not to be missed!