Amanoiwato Shrine attracts lots of travelers who come here to buy goshuincho (stamp books), shrine stamps, and protective charms. Highly recommended!

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Amanoiwato Shrine
Japanese legend is born here at this renowned power spot in Miyazaki.
Amanoiwato Shrine is an ancient shrine that preserves the legend of the Amanoiwato myth, as recorded in the Nihon Shoki and Kojiki. The shrine venerates the large “Amanoiwato” cave where the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami hid herself in response to the mischief of her brother Susanoo no Mikoto.
The shrine complex consists of the Western and Eastern main shrines, both dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the revered sun goddess believed to be an agricultural deity who can bring blessings for various wishes. Upstream along the Iwato River lies the large cave Amano Yasugawara, where it is said that all the gods gathered to discuss how to lure Amaterasu Omikami out of hiding. Visitors often stack stones here while making wishes, believing that their prayers will be answered.
The Western main shrine features a "yohaijo" (worship hall) from which visitors can view the sacred cave, guided by shrine priests at scheduled times. Standing near this famed site of myth evokes an unshakable sense of mystique.
Highlights
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Guided visits to yohaijo to view the sacred Amanoiwato cave are generally free, but donations to the shrine's building fund or offerings are always welcome.
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Access to Amano Yasugawara is by foot only. The path can be slippery and difficult, so safe footwear is essential.
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Join the local tradition of stacking stones while praying at Amano Yasugawara to make your wish come true.
Photos
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A spiritual power spot believed to be the setting of the Amanoiwato myth.
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The Eastern main shrine sits across the Iwato River from the Western main shrine.
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Amano Yasugawara, where all the gods are said to have held their divine council.
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have pamphlets in other languages? (If so, please also inform us of the supported languages)
English pamphlets available.
Q
Do you have shrine’s red ink stamps?
Yes.
Q
Is parking available?
Yes.
Q
Are coin lockers available?
Not available.
Reviews
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Details
- Name in Japanese
- 天岩戸神社
- Postal Code
- 882-1621
- Address
- 1073-1 Iwato, Takachiho-cho, Nishiusuki-gun, Miyazaki
- Telephone
- 0982-74-8239
- Closed
- Open every day
- Business Hours
- Shrine office 8:30am - 5:00pm
- Admission
- Free
- Access
- About a 10-minute drive from the Takachiho Bus Center (Miyazaki Kotsu Bus Stop).
- Official Website
- Official Website