What is Udo Shrine?
Located in Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture, Udo Shrine (Udo Jingu) is a .
The main hall is set inside a cave, and together with its dramatic sea views it is famous as a power spot visited by many worshippers.
A rare shrine in Japan with its main hall inside a cave.
Beautiful ocean view over the Hyūga-nada Sea!
Try your luck with the “undama” toss!
Here’s an introduction to the charms of Udo Shrine, where myth and the mystery of nature meet.
Highlights of Udo Shrine
1. A rare “shrine inside a cave” in Japan
Udo Shrine is an unusual shrine whose main hall is located inside a cave surrounded by bare rock.
The vermilion-painted shrine buildings contrast with the rock and invite visitors into a mysterious world.
Features of this cave shrine
- One of the few “sea-facing cave shrines” in Japan
- A solemn atmosphere surrounded by rock
- Vermilion main hall with history dating back to the Edo period
This unique location is one reason many tourists are drawn here.
2. Spectacular ocean-view approach
The approach path to Udo Shrine offers a wonderful setting with blue sea and sky spread out before you.
On clear days you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Hyūga-nada Sea as you visit.
Highlights along the approach
- A pleasant path where you can feel the sea breeze
- The “Meoto-iwa” (Married Couple Rocks) along the way—a power spot for matchmaking
- Popular as a photo spot
Take your time and enjoy the walk to the shrine!
3. Try your luck: “Undama” toss
One of Udo Shrine’s famous attractions is the “undama” toss.
Visitors throw small unglazed clay balls charged with wishes into a hollow on a turtle-shaped rock facing the sea.
Rules for the undama toss
- Men throw with their left hand; women throw with their right hand
- Buy five undama for 100 yen
- If a ball lands in the hollow of the turtle-shaped rock, your wish will come true!
It looks easy but is actually quite difficult.
Be sure to give it a try!
4. Famous as a deity for fertility and safe childbirth
Udo Shrine is known for its blessings for safe childbirth and fertility.
This comes from a legend in which the deity enshrined here—Ugayafukiaezu no Mikoto, father of Emperor Jimmu—was said to have been nourished from his mother’s breast on this land.
Points for praying for safe childbirth
- At the main hall there is a rock called the “O-chichi-iwa” (Breast Rock); the water that drips from it is used in prayers for safe childbirth
- “Ochichi-ame” candy is given as a charm and is popular among pregnant women
It is a special place for those wishing to conceive or praying for an easy delivery.
5. Udo Shrine’s goshuin and omamori
Udo Shrine offers beautiful goshuin (shrine stamps) and various omamori (charms).
About the goshuin
- The vermilion stamp along with the calligraphy “Udo Jingu” is beautiful
- Popular as a memento of your visit
Popular charms
- Fertility / safe childbirth charm (recommended for those who are pregnant)
- Protection from evil charm (good for life’s milestones)
- Undama charm (modeled after the undama used in the luck toss)
If you enjoy visiting shrines, be sure to collect the goshuin!
Practical information for travelers
1. Access to Udo Shrine
By car
- About 50 minutes from Miyazaki City
- About 60 minutes from Miyazaki Airport
- Free parking available (over 100 spaces)
By bus/train
- Take the Nichinan Line from Miyazaki Station to “Ibei Station” → about 15 minutes by taxi
- Or take a bus from Miyazaki Station to “Udo Jingumae” (about 90 minutes)
2. Hours and admission
Opening hours
- 6:00–18:00 (may change depending on season or events; check the official website for the latest information)
Admission
- Free (charms and undama are sold for a fee)
Summary and FAQ
Summary
✅ A rare cave shrine in Japan!
✅ Beautiful ocean views and a mystical approach
✅ Make a wish by tossing an undama!
✅ A power spot for fertility and safe childbirth
✅ Convenient access from Miyazaki City!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can anyone try the undama toss at Udo Shrine?
A: Yes! People of all ages, from children to adults, can try it. It’s a perfect activity for testing your luck.
Q: How long does a visit take?
A: A visit to the main hall alone takes about 30–40 minutes, but if you take photos and try the undama toss, expect about an hour.
Q: Is it enjoyable on a rainy day?
A: Yes! However, the approach can become slippery, so we recommend wearing non-slip shoes.
Q: Are there other nearby attractions?
A: Nearby attractions include Sun Messe Nichinan (a park with Moai statues) and the scenic Nichinan Coast drive.
Enjoy the spectacular views and blessings at the mystical power spot Udo Shrine!
