The shrine is said to have been founded approximately 1,900 years ago.
The Meoto Sugi cedar trees are over 800 years old and are connected at the base.
Visitors traditionally walk around the Meoto Sugi trees three times while holding hands with a partner to ensure a long and happy relationship.
The nightly Yokagura performances are simplified versions of the traditional all-night ritual dance.
The shrine houses an iron statue of the goddess Ishikori-dome, cast in the 12th century, which is a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan.
It is one of the few shrines in Japan that continues the unbroken tradition of Yokagura performance for the public.
Takachiho Shrine is the head shrine of the 88 shrines within the Takachiho district, serving as a primary site for the worship of the deities Amaterasu Omikami and Susano-o-no-Mikoto. The site is known for its two massive 'married' cedar trees, known as Meoto Sugi, which are joined at the base and symbolize marital harmony. The shrine grounds contain a stage where the traditional Yokagura dance, a ritualistic performance depicting Japanese mythology, is performed nightly. The main hall and the statue of the deity Ishikori-dome are designated as important cultural properties. The shrine is surrounded by ancient, towering cryptomeria trees that provide a dense canopy throughout the complex. The architecture reflects traditional Shinto styles, featuring wood-carved details and stone lanterns. It remains an active site for local festivals, including the Takachiho Yokagura harvest rites held between November and February.
The path between the two ancient, entwined Meoto Sugi cedar trees.
Walk around the Meoto Sugi cedar trees clockwise three times for good luck in relationships.
Purchase a wooden votive tablet (ema) to write your wishes, as they are specifically tied to the shrine's reputation for matrimonial blessings.
Arrive early to secure a good seat for the nightly Yokagura performance as the venue has limited capacity.
Do not take photographs inside the building where the Yokagura performance takes place if signage prohibits it, and avoid stepping on the raised threshold of the shrine buildings.
The Yokagura dance performance occurs every single night of the year, regardless of the season or weather.
Maintain silence, remove hats, bow at the torii gate before entering, and use the purification water basin (temizuya) to rinse hands and mouth before approaching the main hall.
