Udo Shrine, Shinto shrine in Nichinan, Japan
Udo Shrine sits within a natural cave formation carved into a steep cliff that rises above the Pacific Ocean in Miyazaki Prefecture. The cave creates a striking setting for this place of worship.
The shrine was founded during the Heian period and carries connections to Emperor Jimmu, the legendary first emperor of Japan. These links anchor it in Japan's foundational mythology.
The shrine hosts a throwing ritual where visitors toss ceramic balls at a stone target, each person following handed rules that vary by gender. This participatory practice connects visitors to age-old spiritual traditions.
The site is best reached by car from Miyazaki City or by bus from Miyazaki Station. Wear sturdy shoes, as steps and uneven paths lead down to the shrine entrance.
The rock formations inside the cave resemble symbols of motherhood, drawing many visitors seeking blessings for fertility and childbirth. This natural symbolism has made the site a place where people bring their deepest wishes.
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