It enshrines Amano-Iwato, the cave where the Sun Goddess, Amaterasu Ōmikami, hid herself.
More about Shinto Shrine , Click here.
The Myth Story, Amanoiwato
This story is recorded in Japan’s two oldest chronicles: the Kojiki(“Records of Ancient Matters”) and the Nihon Shoki (“Chronicles of Japan”).
Amaterasu became enraged by the violent behavior of her brother, Susanoo, and hid herself in the cave Amano-Iwato. As a result, the world was plunged into darkness. The other gods, deeply troubled, gathered to devise a plan to lure her out.
First, they placed a rooster outside the cave—believing its morning crow would invite the sun to rise—but this failed.
Next, the gods staged a lively celebration with music and dance. Their boisterous festivities sparked Amaterasu’s curiosity. When she slightly opened the cave door to peek out, the powerful god Tajikarao seized it and pulled it fully open. Amaterasu emerged, and light returned to the world.
Amano-Yasukawara Riverside
A short walk downhill from the shrine leads to a cave by the riverside, said to be where the gods gathered to discuss how to lure Amaterasu from the Amanoiwato. Deeper within lies the small Ama-no-Yasukawara Shrine, surrounded by and at the river’s edge, countless stacks of flat stones—each left by a visitor making a wish.
