What is Udo Shrine?
Located in Nichinan City, Miyazaki Prefecture, **Udo Shrine (Udo Jingu)** is a mystical shrine built on steep cliffs.
With its main hall inside a cave and a breathtaking view of the sea, it is renowned as a power spot attracting numerous visitors.
The only shrine located inside a cave
Beautiful ocean views of the Hyuga-nada Sea
Try your luck with "Undama Throwing"!
Let's explore the charm of Udo Shrine where mythology and the mysteries of nature blend.
Highlights of Udo Shrine
1. A rare "shrine inside a cave" in Japan
Udo Shrine is a unique shrine with its main hall located inside a cave surrounded by rocky formations.
The vermilion-painted shrine stands out among the rocks, inviting visitors into a mystical world.
Features of the cave shrine
- One of the few "cave shrines facing the sea" in Japan
- A majestic atmosphere surrounded by rocks
- Historical vermilion main hall built in the Edo period
This distinctive location is one of the reasons it captivates many tourists.
2. Spectacular! Ocean view approach
The approach to Udo Shrine offers a stunning location with expansive blue sea and sky.
Especially on sunny days, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Hyuga-nada Sea while visiting the shrine.
Highlights of the approach
- A pleasant path where you can feel the sea breeze
- "Meoto Iwa" along the way is a power spot for matchmaking
- Popular as a photo spot
Enjoy the walk to the shrine while taking in the sights!
3. Test your luck! "Undama Throwing"
The specialty of Udo Shrine is "Undama Throwing".
Visitors throw small unglazed balls filled with wishes into a hollow in the turtle-shaped rock facing the sea.
Rules of Undama Throwing
- Men throw with their left hand, women with their right
- Purchase 5 undama balls for 100 yen
- If the ball lands in the turtle-shaped rock hollow, your wish will come true!
Though it looks easy, this test of luck can be quite challenging.
Give it a try!
4. Famous deity for fertility and safe childbirth
Udo Shrine is renowned for its blessings for safe childbirth and fertility.
This is based on the legend that **Ugaya Fukiaezu no Mikoto**, the father of Emperor Jimmu, who is enshrined here, was raised by his mother's breasts.
Points for safe childbirth prayers
- The main hall features a rock called "Ochi-iwa", and the water dripping from it is used for safe childbirth prayers
- **"Ochichi Ame"** candy is given as an amulet, popular among pregnant women
It is a special place for those wishing for a child or a safe childbirth.
5. Udo Shrine's Goshuin and Amulets
At Udo Shrine, beautiful Goshuin and various amulets are available.
Features of the Goshuin
- Beautiful calligraphy of "Udo Shrine" along with a vermilion stamp
- Popular as a memento of the visit
Popular amulets
- Fertility and Safe Childbirth Amulet (recommended for pregnant women)
- Protection Amulet (perfect for life's milestones)
- Undama Amulet (motif of the luck-testing undama)
If you enjoy visiting shrines, be sure to collect the Goshuin!
Useful Information for Travelers
1. Access to Udo Shrine
Access by Car
- About 50 minutes from Miyazaki City
- About 60 minutes from Miyazaki Airport
- Free parking available (over 100 cars)
Access by Bus
- From Miyazaki Station, take the Nichinan Line to "Ibii Station" → About 15 minutes by taxi
- From Miyazaki Station, take the bus and get off at "Udo Shrine-mae" (about 90 minutes)
2. Opening Hours and Admission
Opening Hours
- 6:00-19:00 (April to September)
- 7:00-18:00 (October to March)
Admission
- Free (Amulets and Undama are charged)
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Summary
✅ A rare cave shrine in Japan!
✅ Beautiful ocean views and a mystical approach
✅ Make your wish come true with Undama Throwing!
✅ A power spot for fertility and safe childbirth prayers
✅ Convenient access from Miyazaki City!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can anyone participate in Undama Throwing at Udo Shrine?
A: Yes! Anyone from children to adults can participate. It's a perfect activity for testing your luck.
Q: How long does it take to visit?
A: Visiting the main hall takes about 30-40 minutes, but if you enjoy taking photos and Undama Throwing, it takes about 1 hour.
Q: Can you enjoy it even on a rainy day?
A: Yes! However, the approach can become slippery, so it's recommended to wear nonslip shoes.
Q: Are there any tourist spots nearby?
A: Nearby Udo Shrine, there are popular spots like **"Sun Messe Nichinan" (a tourist spot with Moai statues)** and the **"spectacular Nichinan Coast drive course"**.
Enjoy the breathtaking views and blessings at the mystical power spot, Udo Shrine!
