Udo Jingu

Map

History & Origins

According to shrine tradition it was founded in the reign of Emperor Sujin, but the details are not clear. Since ancient times it has served as an important place of worship in Hyuga Province, and in the Edo period it received the reverence of the Shimazu family, lords of the Satsuma domain. The sea cave that holds the main hall measures 38 m east to west, 29 m north to south and 8.5 m high, and the approach has a distinctive structure that descends steep stone steps to the rock cave by the sea.

Highlights

The sea cave housing the main hall is a striking sight, and the whole precinct is filled with the sound of waves from the Hyuga Sea, creating a mysterious atmosphere. The 'Unda' is an unglazed clay ball; men throw it with the left hand and women with the right, aiming for the hollow in the Turtle Rock, and it is said that if it lands in, the wish will come true. The Unda have been handmade by local elementary school students since 1954.

Visitor Guide

It is about a 40-minute walk from Udo Station on the JR Nichinan Line, or about 30 minutes by Miyakou Bus from Obi Station. Since the main hall is a 'kudari-miya' reached by descending steep stone steps, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Unda can be purchased at the offering office.

Best Season

The sea views can be enjoyed throughout the year. The annual festival on February 1 and the Shan-shan Uma procession at the end of March are especially lively. The combination of the rough Hyuga Sea in winter and the cave is also worth seeing.

Blessings

Annual Events

• February

  Reisai (Annual Festival)

  The most important annual festival of the year, held on February 1. Thanks and reverence are offered to the enshrined deity.

• March

  Shanshan Uma Dochu (Shanshan Horse Procession)

  A ritual held on the last Sunday of March. It originates from an old custom in which newlywed couples visit the shrine on horseback.

Travel Plan

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