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
- 岩窟・神話遺跡
- Legend
- 天照大御神が身を隠した「天岩戸」が御神体。神様たちが集まって踊り、岩戸が開かれた場所が「天安河原」として残る
- Element
- 光・岩・川
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
- 11月〜2月
夜神楽
高千穂地方に伝わる本格的な夜神楽。33番の演目を一夜で奉納
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