Takachiho Shrine (Takachiho Jinja), founded some 1,900 years ago, is the spiritual heart of the mythologically rich town of Takachiho in northern Miyazaki. Set in a serene, atmospheric grove of towering ancient cedar trees, the weathered wooden shrine radiates a deep sense of age and sanctity. Among its treasures is a magnificent pair of 800-year-old ‘meoto sugi’ (husband-and-wife cedar trees), joined at the roots, around which couples walk hand in hand for blessings of love, marriage and harmony. The shrine is also famous as the setting for nightly performances of Takachiho kagura, a UNESCO-recognised sacred dance retelling the region’s creation myths, held here every evening for visitors. Deeply connected to Japan’s foundational legends and beautifully atmospheric, especially when lit at dusk, Takachiho Shrine is a must-visit alongside the famous gorge.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Takachiho, Miyazaki |
| Hours | Grounds ~daylight; kagura nightly ~20:00 |
| Admission | Free; kagura small fee |
| Time needed | 45–60 minutes |
| Best time | Year-round; atmospheric at dusk |
What to See
- An ancient shrine among towering cedar trees.
- The 800-year-old joined ‘meoto sugi’ couple cedars.
- Nightly Takachiho kagura sacred dance performances.
- A deeply atmospheric, mythologically rich setting.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with the Takachiho Gorge nearby.
- Pair with the Takachiho night kagura in full.
- Read our Miyazaki overview .
Getting There
- By car: in central Takachiho near the gorge.
- By bus: to Takachiho, then a short walk/taxi.
Tips
Stay for the nightly kagura performance held at the shrine (usually around 8pm), a wonderful way to experience the sacred dance and local mythology, and look for the joined ‘meoto sugi’ couple cedars for a blessing. Visit at dusk when the cedar grove is most atmospheric, and combine it with the gorge for the full Takachiho experience.
