Amano Iwato Jinja
Map
The mythological setting of the legend of the 'Rock-Cave of Heaven' (Amano Iwato), where the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami hid herself from the world. The shrine venerates the cave itself as its sacred body. Nearby Amano Yasukawara—the vast cavern where eight million gods are said to have assembled—is equally awe-inspiring.
Sacred Site Info
- Type
- Rock cave and mythological site
- Legend
- This shrine's object of worship is the rock cave where, in Japanese mythology, the goddess Amaterasu Omikami is said to have hidden herself. The eight million deities are said to have gathered and held discussions at Amanoyasukawara, and even today many worshippers continue the custom of stacking stones while making a wish.
- Element
- Light, rock, river
History & Origins
The legend of Amano Iwato, recorded in Japan's oldest chronicles (the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki), is set here. The adjacent Amano Yasukawara is a great cave where the millions of assembled gods are said to have plotted to coax Amaterasu back out—today, its walls are covered with countless stacked stone cairns.
Highlights
The Amano Iwato cave (visible from the West Shrine) and the Amano Yasukawara (an immense cavern filled with stone cairns—a truly awe-inspiring sight) are the essential experiences. Combining a visit with nearby Takachiho Gorge is highly recommended.
Visitor Guide
Viewing the Amano Iwato cave requires a group tour organized at the shrine office (free; join-as-you-go). Amano Yasukawara is about a 10-minute walk along a picturesque valley path.
Best Season
Open year-round. The dim, twilight atmosphere at Amano Yasukawara in the late afternoon is particularly mysterious.
Annual Events
- May
Shunki Taisai and Gojinkosai (Spring Grand Festival and Divine Procession Festival)
A spring grand festival held on May 2–3. The Gojinkosai is held on May 3.
- September
Shuki Taisai (Autumn Grand Festival)
An autumn grand festival held on September 22–23.
- November
Takachiho no Yokagura Hono (Takachiho Night Kagura Offering)
On November 3, all 33 pieces of the nationally designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, Takachiho no Yokagura, are offered.
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