Ama-no-Iwato

This sacred cave shrine marks the legendary site where the sun goddess Amaterasu hid herself in a rock cave, plunging the world into darkness according to Shinto creation mythology. Located in Takachiho, the shrine enshrines Amaterasu Omikami and serves as one of Japan's most spiritually significant sites connected to the origins of the Japanese people and imperial lineage. Visitors come here seeking divine blessings, spiritual purification, and to connect with the foundational myths of Shinto, often participating in kagura sacred dance performances that recreate the ancient ritual used to coax Amaterasu from her cave.