Takachiho is located in Miyazaki Prefecture
and
is known for the Takachiho Gorge, which has sheer cliffs
that resemble dragon scales.
Within Miyazaki Prefecture is the
town of Takachiho,
one of the most famous and religious towns in Japan.
Located in the city is the Takachiho Shrine, which is
one of the most popular destinations for guests
visiting the town. The town is known for the legend
involving the sun goddess hiding herself in a cave.
Takachiho Gorge is a beautiful ravine in which the
Gokase River flows through. This place is known for
its natural beauty and religious importance. The
Takachiho Gorge features the scenic Manai-No-Taki
Falls and is a popular tourist destination. Guests can
view the gorge from renting a boat and rowing down
the gorge itself. Another popular way to see the gorge
is by walking along the trail above the cliffs to get a
good view of the entire gorge.
The Amano Iwato Shrine, and is one of the most
popular destinations for guests visiting the town. The
town is known for the legend of the sun goddess
hiding herself in a cave and thus taking the world’s
sunlight with her. The Amano Iwato Shrine is near the
cave where the sun goddess hid herself in the
legend. It is said that the sunlight returned when one
of the other gods performed a ridiculous dance which
caused all the other gods to laugh. Out of curiosity,
the sun goddess came out to see what all the
commotion was about and thus brought back the light
into the world. The Yokagura dance is a reenactment
of the legend and is one of the most popular events
to see to see at the Takachiho Shrine. The shortened
version is performed every night at the Yokagura
performance hall located near the main building. A
short distance away from the Amano Iwato Shrine is
the Amano Yasukawara Cave. There is a shrine
located inside the cave where it is said that the gods
and goddesses met to strategize on luring Amaterasu
outside. The area can be identified by the numerous
stack of stones lined up by the river.
Please see below for tours that include
Takachiho:
