Travel Diary to the Origin of Japanese Mythology - Amano Iwato

On this day, I decided to depart from the center of Fukuoka and take a high-speed bus to Amano Iwato in Takachiho, Miyazaki Prefecture, to experience this mythologically rich place. The morning sunlight streamed through the curtains, filling me with anticipation. I arrived early at the Fukuoka bus terminal, ready to board the bus to Takachiho. The bus departed at 8 AM, and the scenery along the way gradually changed from the bustling city to the natural beauty of the countryside. The bus traveled along winding mountain roads, and the fresh air made me feel incredibly refreshed. After about two and a half hours, the bus finally arrived in Takachiho. As soon as I got off the bus, I was captivated by the surrounding natural scenery. The verdant hills and clear streams made me feel at peace. I transferred to a local bus to Amano Iwato Shrine, where the golden spires gleamed in the sunlight, giving me a sense of sacredness and solemnity. Upon entering the shrine, I followed local customs by removing my shoes and maintaining silence. The shrine has two main sanctuaries, Nishihongu and Higashihongu, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami. The sacred object of Nishihongu is the cave where Amaterasu Omikami hid, and the tranquility here made me feel a harmonious connection with nature. I made a special trip to Amano Yasukawara, a large cave where it is said that the gods once gathered to discuss how to coax Amaterasu Omikami out of hiding. On the riverbed, I saw many visitors stacking stones and making wishes. According to legend, wishes made here will come true. I joined in this activity, stacking a small pile of stones and silently making my wish. After visiting the shrine, I enjoyed local delicacies at nearby food stalls. Takachiho's cuisine is renowned for its fresh mountain and seafood produce. I tasted the local grilled fish and mountain onions, and each bite was delicious and memorable. After finishing my visit, I took the bus back to Takachiho City, then transferred to a bus back to Fukuoka. Throughout the journey, I felt grateful. This trip not only allowed me to appreciate beautiful natural scenery but also gave me a deeper understanding of Japanese mythology. The day's experience left me feeling peaceful and serene, looking forward to the next adventure. In front of the wish stone pile at Amano Yasukawara, I left not only stones but also my hopes for the future.