Power Spots
From shrines and temples to nature and sacred sites โ a curated guide to Japan's most notable power spots.
Shiretoko Misaki (Shiretoko Cape)
The Ainu sacred site of "Shiretoko (the end of the earth)". A hidden wilderness at the innermost reaches of the Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Tamaki Jinja (Tamaki Shrine)
The Okumiya (inner sanctuary) of the Kumano Sanzan (Three<image|>Mountains of Kumano), nestled on a sacred mountain (reizan) at an altitude of 1,076 meters, known as a place that "only those who are called can reach."
Amanoiwato (Amanoiwato Shrine)
A cave where it is said that Amaterasu Omikami (the sun goddess) retreated. This is the central site of the mythology of the hiding in the cave.
Takachiho-kyo (Takachiho Gorge)
The land of the Tenson Korin (Descent of the Heavenly Grandson) myth. A mystical canyon where sheer cliffs of columnar jointing and the Manai Waterfall intertwine.
Udo Jingu (Udo Grand Shrine)
A vermilion-painted main hall (honden) nestled within a sea cave. It is famous for being a 'Shimorimiya' (a shrine where one descends to worship) and for the 'Un-dama Nage' (throwing a lucky ball) ritual.
Inasa-no-Hama (Inasa Beach)
The setting of the Kuniyuzuri (Land Transfer) myth. This is a beach where the myriad deities of Japan descend during the Kamiarizuki (Month of the Gods).
Kozushima Tenjo-san (Mount Tenjo)
A sacred mountain in the Izu Islands where it is said that "the deities gathered to share the waters." It is one of the New Tokyo 100 Views.
Sefa Utaki (Sefa Utaki)
The highest-ranking sacred site of the Ryukyu Kingdom, where the creator deity Amamikiyo descended. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Miyajidake Jinja (Hikari no Michi)
The head shrine of the Miyajidake shrines nationwide, famous for the 'Hikari no Michi' (Path of Light), where the setting sun aligns with the extension of the approach path twice a year.
Oiwa Jinja (Oiwa Shrine)
The oldest sacred mountain (reizan) in Hitachi Province, dating back to the Jomon period, enshrining 188 deities.
Coverage is expanding gradually starting with major power spots. Please check official sources before visiting, as details may change.