Amano-Iwato Shrine Nishi-hongū

Overview

Amano-Iwato Shrine Nishi-hongū is a shrine located in Takachiho-chō, Miyazaki Prefecture. There are Nishi-hongū and Higashi-hongū, separated by the Iwatō River. This shrine, which enshrines Amaterasu-ōmikami (the Sun Goddess), is known as the setting for the Amano-Iwato Hiding legend from Japanese mythology and is famous as a power spot. The highlight of Amano-Iwato Shrine Nishi-hongū is the distant viewing point for Amano-Iwato. Amano-Iwato is hidden behind the worship hall and cannot usually be seen directly. However, if you make a request at the shrine office, you can be guided by a priest to the distant viewing point to see Amano-Iwato directly. From the distant viewing point, enveloped in a sacred atmosphere, you can feel the divine power of Amano-Iwato. Also, at Amano-Iwato Shrine Nishi-hongū, there are seven sacred cedar trees called "Nana-hon-sugi." Planted in the Edo period on the shrine grounds above the Amano-Iwato cliff, their roots are said to be connected. Nana-hon-sugi is a symbolic presence of Amano-Iwato Shrine Nishi-hongū, and its grandeur is overwhelming. Amano-Iwato Shrine Nishi-hongū is a sacred place related to the Amano-Iwato Hiding legend and is famous as a power spot. Many worshippers visit to refresh their minds and bodies. When visiting Takachiho, be sure to visit Amano-Iwato Shrine Nishi-hongū.