Takachiho Mythological Sites

A gorge in Nishi-Usuki, Miyazaki. Features 7 kilometers of striking canyon landscape with distinctive columnar jointing V-shaped valley. Boat tours are popular. Known as the birthplace of mythology, the setting of the Ama-no-Iwato legend. Approximately 500,000 visitors annually, offering experience of Japan's mythological and natural fusion.

One of Japan's oldest shrines, visited by worshippers from across the country as the deity of matchmaking. Distinctive for its massive shimenawa rope and unique two-bow, four-clap, one-bow prayer etiquette, it is believed that all the gods of Japan gather here in the tenth lunar month.

A castle with a National Treasure keep, nicknamed 'Crow Castle' for its striking black lacquered exterior. It houses Japan's oldest existing five-story, six-floor castle tower, and its beautiful setting against the Northern Alps backdrop attracts visitors year-round.

Japan's tallest single-drop waterfall in Wakayama, known for its sacred landscape unified with Kumano Nachi Taisha shrine. As a destination on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, it embodies the fusion of nature worship and faith in Japanese spiritual culture.

One of Japan's Three Scenic Views in Miyazu, Kyoto. A 3.6km sandbar crossing Miyazu Bay lined with pine trees creates a unique landscape. Its name — 'Bridge to Heaven' — comes from the illusion of a heavenly bridge when viewed upside-down between one's legs.

A renowned temple in Shinano where it is said every Japanese should visit at least once. Open to all Buddhist denominations, it enshrines what is believed to be the oldest Buddhist image in Japan. Millions flock to the once-every-seven-years Gokaicho unveiling ceremony.

The head temple of Soto Zen Buddhism, founded by Zen Master Dogen in 1244. An active training monastery where roughly 150 monks follow a rigorous monastic life, visitors can also experience zazen meditation and shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine).