Guide
Erihara no Mizuana, also known as Ama no Iwato, is a stunning spring located in Shima City, Mie Prefecture. It is officially designated as one of the "100 Best Waters" by the Ministry of the Environment. The site is nestled within a karst topography formed by limestone, where crystal-clear water continuously emerges from the earth, protected by the surrounding ancient forests. Historically, this location served as a vital spiritual hub for pilgrims traveling the routes between Ise and Shima.
Since the early Showa era, pilgrims visiting the Grand Shrine of Ise have revered this site as "Ama no Iwato" (The Heavenly Rock Cave) or "Chiosan." Although the area suffered a landslide around 1935, the subsequent recovery led to the establishment of the Takisai-kuda altar. The area also holds connections to Kokichi Mikimoto, the father of the modern pearl industry, who was a known follower of the local faith and recorded his efforts in local reforestation.
In recent years, the site has gained significant popularity among younger travelers due to its connection to the cultural background of a famous Makoto Shinkai anime film. The presence of banners at Sarume Shrine and the connection to the deity Mizu-no-kami (the goddess of water) make it a must-visit destination for fans of Japanese animation and