Takachiho Shrine (高千穂神社)

Flow of the course

About this spot

The head shrine of the Takachiho District's eighty-eight shrines, standing within a shrine grounds surrounded by towering cryptomeria trees. It enshrines the Takachiho Imperial Deities and the Ten Great Deities, drawing worshippers seeking blessings for good relationships and purification. The highlight is the married couple cedar tree, where two giant cryptomerias' roots are united as one. Couples and friends who hold hands and circle it three times are said to receive blessings for lasting bonds and family safety. Beside the main prayer hall stands the wishing stone, said to bring peace to one's worries. Each evening, the sacred Takachiho Kagura—a representative selection from the nationally designated intangible folk cultural property, the Takachiho Night Kagura—is performed at the shrine's kagura hall, preserving the land of myth's prayer culture for today.

Tips

The cryptomeria-shaded grounds are shady and easy to walk, though stone steps require careful footing. The Takachiho Kagura (for tourists) is performed nightly, so if staying in Takachiho, a nighttime revisit is highly recommended. A parking lot for visitors is available.

Best time to visit

Approximately 45 minutes. Mid-morning when light filters through the cryptomeria grove is most refreshing.

Access & map

〒882-1101 Miyazaki Prefecture, Nishi-Usuki District, Takachiho Town, Mitai 1037