Ama-no-Iwato Shrine (Water Hole in Erihara) [Mie]

【Summary】

Ama-no-Iwato is a mythical place in the Chronicles of Japan where Amaterasu Omikami, the Sun God, became so angry at the violent actions of his younger brother, Susano-no-mikoto, that he hid behind a rock door and turned to darkness. There are several places in Japan that claim to be or are related to Ama-no-Iwato, and this is one of the candidate sites.

2023年7月2日 Ama-no-Iwato Shrine (Motoise Ama-no-Iwato Shrine) [Kyoto]

Amano-Iwato (Erihara no Mizuana) in Mie Prefecture springs from a cave in the middle of Mount Osaka in the Ise-Shima National Park and is the source of water for the Shima water supply, and has been selected as one of the 100 best waters by the Ministry of the Environment. Since it is located about 30 minutes by car from Ise City, few people visit Amano-Iwato even after visiting the Outer and Inner Shrines of Ise Jingu Shrine.

Jingu (Inner Shrine of Ise Jingu) [Mie] 2023年12月24日

【scenery】

From the free parking lot to Amano-Iwato, there is a paved road about 2 to 3 meters wide with a gentle slope, making it easy to walk. The atmosphere of the entire mountain is one of pure air and quiet mountain forests, giving a sense of the world of sacred mythology.

A very clear and pure stream runs beside the approach, and the sound of the flowing water is very soothing.

A short walk from the San-no-torii gate leads to Amano-Iwato (water hole in Erihara).

【precincts】

The three deities of the Kamimiya shrine next to the water hole are Mitsunami Goddess, Uwasawa Goddess, and Sarutahiko Great Goddess.

There is no shrine office, but it is well maintained and has a sacred atmosphere.

A very cold, cool breeze was blowing from the windhole, and it was a mysterious spot with a spiritual atmosphere.

【Access】