⛩️ Amano Iwato Shrine 天岩戸神社

The ancient shrine mentioned in the "Tama no Iwato Myth" recorded in the Nihon Shoki and Kojiki. "Amaterasu Omikami," due to her brother "Susanoo no Mikoto" causing trouble everywhere, became enraged and closed herself in a large cave called "Tama no Iwato." The Tama no Iwato Shrine is dedicated to this large cave as its sacred object. The Nishi Hongu (West Main Shrine) and Higashi Hongu (East Main Shrine) are located on either side of the Iwato River, and both shrines enshrine "Amaterasu Omikami." "Amaterasu Omikami" embodies various divine aspects, including that of the sun goddess and the agricultural deity, and is believed to grant the realization of various wishes. The large cave upstream of the Iwato River, known as "Tama no Anagawa," is said to be the place where the eight million gods gathered to discuss countermeasures while "Amaterasu Omikami" was in seclusion. It is said that if one piles up stones and makes a wish, that wish will come true, which is why the riverbed is filled with stone piles made by people wishing for their desires. Within the Nishi Hongu, there is a "Haraibasho" (worship place) where visitors can view the sacred object "Tama no Iwato" from a distance. Shrine officials lead tours at fixed times. Observing the site of this famous myth up close is believed to allow one to feel its miraculous power.

The "Yōbai-jo" is free to visit, and those who wish can freely donate to the donation box as maintenance funds. The "Tian'an Kawan" can only be reached on foot, and the mountain path is slippery and difficult to navigate, so please be sure to wear shoes that allow for safe walking. It is said that if you stack stones at "Tian'an Kawan" and make a wish, your wish will come true.