Popular Tours & Experiences in Amano Yasukawara Shrine

Ama-no-Iwato Shrine is located in the Takachiho area, which offers many other worthwhile attractions. The most famous, closely tied to its mythology, is the "Ama-no-Iwato Shrine" itself, divided into the West and East Shrines. The path leading to Ama-no-Iwato Shrine is also blessed with charming natural scenery. Don't miss the spectacular "Takachiho Gorge" for a chance to enjoy a boat ride to Manai Falls. If time permits in the evening, you can witness the traditional Yokagura dance performance at "Takachiho Shrine." Further afield, "Kunimi-ga-oka" offers a chance to see a sea of clouds (requires early morning and specific weather conditions). These sites are perfect for a combined itinerary.

When visiting Ama-no-Iwato Shrine, it's essential to approach with reverence. Before entering the shrine grounds, it's customary to purify your hands and mouth at the "Chōzuya" (water pavilion) to cleanse your body and spirit. A unique experience at Ama-no-Iwato Shrine is within the cave itself, where many visitors stack small stones as offerings for prayers. It's believed this act conveys your wishes to the deities. You're welcome to participate, but please refrain from disturbing or moving stones placed by others. The atmosphere here is solemn and peaceful, so speak softly and avoid loud noises, respecting the local beliefs and culture. As this is a mythical origin site, it's advisable to dress modestly and avoid overly revealing attire.

There are distinct differences in the visitor experience between Ama-no-Iwato Shrine and Ise Grand Shrine. Ama-no-Iwato Shrine is renowned for its natural, primitive cave scenery and its strong connection to the Ama-no-Iwato legend, creating a more mysterious and tranquil atmosphere. It's smaller in scale, characterized by worshippers stacking stones for prayers. Ise Grand Shrine, on the other hand, is the highest sacred site of Shintoism in Japan, vast in scale, divided into the Inner and Outer Shrines, enshrining Amaterasu Omikami. The pilgrimage process is solemn and grand, emphasizing purification and order within the sacred precinct. Ama-no-Iwato Shrine is more like a mythical relic integrated with nature, whereas Ise Grand Shrine represents the supreme authority and tradition of the Japanese Imperial family and Shintoism.

To best appreciate Ama-no-Iwato Shrine's beauty while avoiding crowds, it's recommended to visit on weekdays during spring (approximately March-May) or autumn (approximately October-November). Spring brings vibrant new greenery along the Iwato River, and the climate is pleasant. Autumn offers the beauty of colorful foliage, adding a touch of color to the mystical cave. The weather during these seasons is generally stable, suitable for outdoor activities. To avoid crowds, steer clear of Japan's Golden Week (early May), summer holidays (July-August), New Year's, and weekend holidays. Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon can also provide a more serene experience.

The most recommended way to travel from Miyazaki City to Ama-no-Iwato Shrine (located in Takachiho Town) is by car. Driving takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, involving highways and mountain roads, with beautiful scenery along the way and greater flexibility. If using public transportation, you can take a JR train from Miyazaki Station to Nobeoka Station (about 1 hour), then transfer to a bus to Takachiho Bus Center (about 1.5 hours). From there, you'll need to take a local Takachiho town loop bus or a taxi to Ama-no-Iwato Shrine, followed by a walk to Ama-no-Iwato Shrine. Since bus services are less frequent and may require transfers, it's advisable to check schedules in advance and allow ample travel time.

For a first-time visit to Ama-no-Iwato Shrine, it's recommended to start at "Ama-no-Iwato West Shrine." After visiting the West Shrine, follow the signs along the path beside the clear Iwato River for about 10 to 15 minutes to reach the mystical "Ama-no-Iwato Shrine" cave. On your return, you might consider visiting "Ama-no-Iwato East Shrine." For visiting tips, be sure to wear comfortable, non-slip shoes, as the paths can be somewhat damp and slippery. In summer, protect yourself from the sun and insects; in winter, stay warm. Inside the cave, maintain silence and absorb the solemn atmosphere. Lastly, have some small change ready for donations or purchasing amulets.

For a day trip combining Ama-no-Iwato Shrine and Takachiho Gorge, it's recommended to visit Takachiho Gorge in the morning. Here, you can rent a small boat for a closer view of the magnificent Manai Falls and stroll along the scenic path. For lunch, consider enjoying local specialties around Takachiho Gorge. In the afternoon, head to Ama-no-Iwato Shrine and Ama-no-Iwato Shrine, first visiting the West Shrine, then walking to Ama-no-Iwato Shrine to experience its mystical atmosphere. If time and interest permit, you can watch the traditional local Yokagura performance at Takachiho Shrine in the evening. Having a car will make this itinerary much more convenient and help you manage your time effectively.

Ama-no-Iwato Shrine is located in Takachiho Town, with most accommodations concentrated in the town center. You'll find various hot spring inns, traditional Japanese inns (ryokan), and guesthouses offering local hospitality. It's advisable to book a plan that includes dinner and breakfast (ippan ni shoku), as many inns feature special dishes made with local ingredients. For dining, Takachiho Town is famous for its high-quality "Takachiho Beef," so be sure to try its delicious yakiniku (grilled meat) or steak. In the summer near Takachiho Gorge, you can experience the unique "nagashi somen" (flowing noodles). Additionally, Miyazaki Prefecture's specialty "Chicken Nanban" can also be found in Takachiho.

There are many excellent photo opportunities at Ama-no-Iwato Shrine. Recommended spots include the cave entrance, where you can capture the mystical light filtering in; the countless stacked stones inside the cave, symbolizing a gathering of deities and offering a visually striking scene; and the pathway along the Iwato River, perfect for photographing the clear water and lush greenery. When photographing, please remember that this is a sacred place, so avoid using flash to avoid disturbing other visitors, and maintain a quiet demeanor. Also, the ground may be wet and slippery, so be mindful of your safety while taking pictures. Most importantly, respect the culture and do not move or damage any stones.

Ama-no-Iwato Shrine is not dedicated to a specific principal deity but is considered a place where all the gods (Yaoyorozu no Kami) gathered for council. It's central to the "Ama-no-Iwato" legend in Japanese mythology. The story tells of the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami becoming enraged by the misbehavior of her brother Susanoo-no-Mikoto and hiding in the Ama-no-Iwato cave, plunging the world into darkness. The gods then convened at the cave of Ama-no-Iwato Shrine to discuss how to lure Amaterasu Omikami out. Ultimately, through the comical dance of Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto, they succeeded in making Amaterasu Omikami peek out, restoring light to the world. This place is thus considered one of the birthplaces of Japanese mythology.