Sacred Land of the Gods in Kyushu: 5 Recommended Power Spots in Takachiho

Takachiho is a place where beautiful scenery and a divine atmosphere come together. It offers numerous must-see spots that one should visit at least once in a lifetime—such as the stunning waterfalls and bridges of Takachiho Gorge, designated as a National Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument, and the famous power spot Amanoyasugawara. If you’re looking to refresh your spirit on a trip, be sure to visit Takachiho. Here are 5 carefully selected recommended power spots in Takachiho.

1. Takachiho Gorge

Takachiho Gorge is a nationally designated scenic spot and natural monument. Its centerpiece, “Manai no Taki,” is chosen as one of Japan’s top 100 waterfalls. The waterfall, which plunges about 17 meters, is simply breathtaking! A popular way to experience the power of the falls is to ride a rowboat right up close. As you gaze upward along the 7 km-long sheer cliff face, you’ll have an unforgettable experience.

The columnar joints, formed over a long period by volcanic eruptions from ancient Aso, stand 50–100 meters tall and are awe-inspiring. In particular, “Sennin no Byōbu Iwa” (the Hermit’s Folding Screen Rock) looms impressively on the opposite side of the walkway, exuding a sense of overwhelming power. Takachiho Gorge offers a different charm every season, making it a spot you can enjoy year‑round.

In summer, there is a light‑up event. The walkway and Manai no Taki are illuminated by LED lights in shades of blue, purple, yellow, and pink, creating a mystical scene. From the walkway, you can also see “Takachiho Sanbashi,” a rare spot where three arched bridges with distinct atmospheres stand side by side. In addition, don’t miss other power spots steeped in myth, such as “Onihachi no Chikaraishi,” “Onokoro Island,” and “Tsukigata.” When you visit Takachiho Gorge, be sure to stop by and experience these wonders.

2. Takachiho Shrine

Takachiho Shrine is one of Kyushu’s most representative shrines. Its main hall and the iron Komainu (guardian lion-dogs) it houses are registered as Important Cultural Properties. It is said to bestow blessings for marriage and harmonious family life, and it is believed that if couples or lovers hold hands and walk three laps around two cedar trees called “Meoto-sugi,” their wishes for good relationships, household safety, and prosperity of descendants will be granted. Given Takachiho’s reputation as a power spot, you can expect ample blessings.

Don’t miss the nightly performance of “Takachiho Kagura,” a form of traditional nighttime dance held between 8:00 and 9:00 PM every day. Recognized as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, the performance is held in the shrine’s Kagura hall (as of September 2018, admission is 700 yen per person). Enjoy the representative dances such as Taji Karao’s and Uzume’s—live and in person.

In recent years, souvenir stamps (goshuin) have also become very popular. You can purchase an original Takachiho Shrine goshuin book featuring a scene from the myth of the descent of the heavenly grandson. Why not get a beautiful goshuin as a memento?

The shrine is easily accessible by car, and trains and buses are available from Miyazaki or Kumamoto Stations. There are also highway buses from Hakata Station.

3. Amano-Iwato Shrine

Amano-Iwato Shrine is the spiritual basis for the famous Takachiho power spot, Amanoyasugawara. The shrine has two main sections, the Nishihongū and the Higashihongū, which are about a 10‑minute walk apart.

Nishihongū is dedicated to the deity of the cave, Amaterasu Ōmikami, who is said to have hidden herself there. If you plan to view the cave (Amano-Iwato), please register at Nishihongū.

Higashihongū enshrines Amaterasu Ōmikami as well. At Amano-Iwato Shrine, you can watch kagura performances in the Kagura hall during May or September. Please note that there is an admission fee and you must reserve at least one week in advance to watch the performance.

Incidentally, Amano-Iwato Shrine exists not only in Miyazaki but also in Kyoto. The deity enshrined at Kyoto’s Amanoyasugawara is Kushimikenu-no-Mikoto, and the Kyoto Amano-Iwato Shrine is also known as “Former Ise Shrine” because it was originally established as Ise Shrine, which is now enshrined at Ise Grand Shrine in Mie Prefecture.

This mystical shrine, nestled in the mountains and surrounded by a gorge, is imbued with a unique natural energy that you can feel as a power spot.

4. Amanoyasugawara

Amanoyasugawara, located about 15 minutes by car from Takachiho Shrine, is a must-visit spot in Takachiho! It is one of Japan’s top power spots. According to legend, when Amaterasu hid in the cave (Amano-Iwato), the myriad gods gathered and held a divine council in this vast cave. It is located about a 10-minute walk from Amano-Iwato Shrine.

Amanoyasugawara is a large cave where a shrine stands at the back, and piles of stones believed to grant wishes when stacked encircle the entire riverbank. The scene is absolutely breathtaking! The entire area exudes a sacred and mysterious atmosphere that attests to its reputation as a power spot.

Additionally, there is a bridge on the way to Amanoyasugawara that is said to be a power spot with especially strong energy. Be sure to stop and feel the energy there.

5. Ara Tate Shrine

Ara Tate Shrine is located about a 5‑minute drive from the Takachiho power spots Amanoyasugawara and Takachiho Shrine. It enshrines Sarutahiko-no-Mikoto and Amenouzume-no-Mikoto. In Japanese mythology, Sarutahiko-no-Mikoto is the guide for the descent of the heavenly grandson, and Amenouzume-no-Mikoto is the goddess of performing arts, who appears in the legend of Amano-Iwato.

According to legend, Ara Tate Shrine is the place where these two deities married and lived. It is said that the shrine was built hastily using only bundles of trees from the surrounding area, hence the name “Aratate Miya.” This shrine is believed to bestow blessings for harmonious relationships and marriage. As Amenouzume-no-Mikoto is the goddess of song and dance, many entertainers visit this shrine.

Additionally, the life-advice sessions given by the shrine’s chief priest are very popular and are usually fully booked in advance. If you’re interested, be sure to inquire directly.

◎ Summary

Did you enjoy discovering the captivating power spots of Takachiho? This region, steeped in nature and rich with Japanese myth, offers an unforgettable experience. Visit these attractions to immerse yourself in the divine energy of Takachiho, from its scenic gorge and sacred shrines to its enchanting legends. Enjoy the blessings and magical atmosphere of Takachiho!