Things to see and do Takachiho

This magical place is famous throughout Japan and beyond for the beauty of its waterfalls, its natural depth, the color of its water, the lush nature, all enhanced by the position of the overhanging rocks and the smoothness of the steep walls. The view of the Manai waterfall, which rises 17 meters high, from the gorge is breathtaking. Hiring a boat is an almost unavoidable step to make the most of the gorge. It is impossible to book one in advance, so you know what you have to do!

From the sanctuary, a 15-minute walk is necessary to reach the cave. This little walk is an enchantment. In an environment of streams and trees, you will be able to reach the cave located at the east of the sanctuary.

Bathed by the Iwato River, the pretty shrine comprises a number of buildings, the main one, the Nishi hongū, being on the western bank. The Higashi hongū, as its name suggests, is on the east. It is exactly there, a fifteen-minute walk away, that the goddess Amaterasu Ōmikami, a mythical deity of the Shintō, took refuge. The environment of the shrine is truly wild, which gives the place a very appreciable mystical touch.

Located 1 km from the center, this shrine stands in the middle of an environment where cryptomerias, the Japanese cedars, reign supreme. Established over 12 centuries ago, the shrine is highly respected and revered as it is located on the land where the sun goddess descended to earth. The Iwato kagura is danced there every night at 8pm. If you are staying at a hotel in the village, you can usually book a shuttle bus and the session to participate in the dance.