Amanoiwato-jinja, Shinto shrine in Takachiho, Japan
Amanoiwato-jinja is a religious site along the Iwato River in Miyazaki Prefecture, with structures spread across both riverbanks. A cave in the immediate vicinity forms the spiritual heart of the entire complex.
The complex arose to preserve the mythological cave where the sun goddess was said to have retreated. Over the centuries, the site developed into a major destination for pilgrims in the Kyushu region.
The name refers to the rock cave where the sun goddess hid herself according to legend, plunging the world into darkness. Visitors still place stones at certain spots along the riverbank today to express wishes or show respect.
Buses run hourly from the Takachiho bus stop to the site and take about fifteen minutes for the route. The path to the cave follows a narrow trail along the river, which can become slippery when it rains.
From November to February, 33 consecutive dance performances take place here at night, lasting until the early morning hours. These performances draw visitors who stay throughout the night to experience all the presentations.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
