Guide
Ama no Iwato Jinja Higashi Motomiya is a prestigious shrine located in Takachiho Town, Miyazaki Prefecture. It is famously known as a sacred site related to the legend of 'Ama no Iwato' (the Heavenly Rock Cave), where the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami was said to have hidden. The Higashi Motomiya (East Main Shrine) enshrines Amaterasu Omikami and is distinguished by its high-ranking Shinmei-zukuri architectural style. The area is enveloped by lush, abundant nature, creating a deeply tranquil and sacred space for reflection.
The history of the Higashi Motomiya is ancient, with records dating back to the era of myth. It was once referred to as 'Ama no Ikato Okamiya' and has been a cornerstone of local faith for centuries. The shrine's architecture preserves traditional building techniques passed down through generations. Furthermore, this region is the home of 'Ama no Iwato Kagura,' a ritual dance designated as a national intangible cultural property. This tradition reflects a deep-rooted culture of coexistence with nature and devotion to the gods. The presence of historic stone lanterns and the town-designated natural monument, an ancient ginkgo tree, further illustrate the profound historical depth of this site.
The most striking feature of Higashi Motomiya is the seamless harmony between the sacred shrine and the surrounding landscape. The Shinmei-zukuri architecture embodies the essence of traditional Japanese aesthetics. Visitors can also marvel at the 'Ancient Ginkgo Tree,' a natural monument that changes its appearance beautifully with each season. From the Nishimoto-miya (West Shrine) side, there is access to the 'Ama no Iwato Haishaisho' (Remote Worship Site), where you can feel the presence of the legendary cave. The historic stone lanterns scattered throughout the grounds add to the site's immense cultural and visual richness.
Ama no Iwato Jinja offers a different charm in every season. The vibrant fresh greenery of spring and the brilliant autumn foliage are particularly breathtaking, enhancing the sacred atmosphere of the shrine. If you time your visit with specific festivals, you can witness the 'Ama no Iwato Kagura' ritual dance. For instance, visiting during the Spring Grand Festival in May, the Autumn Grand Festival in September, or the Night Kagura in November provides a rare opportunity to experience authentic Japanese religious ceremonies and traditional arts.
This area offers a profound connection to Japanese tradition through 'Kagura'—ritual dance performed to express prayers to the gods. During specific festival periods, visitors can observe these sacred dances performed by priests and local practitioners. Additionally, near the Nishimoto-miya side, you can experience the remote worship of the Ama no Iwato cave under the guidance of a shrine official, providing a visual and spiritual way to understand the mythology. Walking through the natural surroundings while breathing in the sacred air offers a meditative experience away from daily life.
The area surrounding the shrine is dotted with spots that evoke the world of myth. A notable spot is 'Amano Yasu-kawara Shrine,' located across from the Nishimoto-miya, which is said to be the place where the eight million gods gathered. Near the back of the Nishimoto-miya worship hall, there is a remote worship site where you can sense the presence of the legendary cave through the guidance of a shrine official. Exploring these nearby sites will deepen your understanding of the mythical culture of Takachiho.
To ensure a respectful and comfortable visit, please note the following: