Udo Shrine
A mystical shrine nestled in a seaside cliff cave, offering breathtaking ocean views and a unique wishing ritual.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Udo Shrine
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A mystical shrine nestled in a seaside cliff cave, offering breathtaking ocean views and a unique wishing ritual.
"Udo Jingu is simply an unbelievable, breathtaking place and it’s by far my favorite spot in Miyazaki."
🚗 Scenic Coastal Drive
The drive along the Nichinan coastline to Udo Shrine is as stunning as the destination itself.
💰 Lucky Stone Cost
Clay pebbles for the wishing ritual cost 200 yen. Hitting the target brings luck!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cave Shrine
Inside the cliff
A breathtaking shrine nestled within a natural sea cave, offering a mystical and awe-inspiring experience.
Ocean Vistas
From the shrine entrance
Panoramic views of the vast blue sea and crashing waves create a dramatic and unforgettable backdrop.
Undama Wishing Ritual
Below the shrine
Toss clay pebbles into a ring for good luck; hitting the target is said to bring fortune.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Coastal Charm
Luck of the Undama
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Scenic Coastal Drive
The drive along the Nichinan coastline to Udo Shrine is as stunning as the destination itself.
💰 Lucky Stone Cost
Clay pebbles for the wishing ritual cost 200 yen. Hitting the target brings luck!
🐒 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for wild monkeys playing in the area; they add a magical touch.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the paths and the shrine grounds.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Scenic Coastal Drive
The drive along the Nichinan coastline to Udo Shrine is as stunning as the destination itself.
💰 Lucky Stone Cost
Clay pebbles for the wishing ritual cost 200 yen. Hitting the target brings luck!
🐒 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for wild monkeys playing in the area; they add a magical touch.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the paths and the shrine grounds.
📸 Capture the Magic
The shrine's unique setting and ocean views make for incredible photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Udo Shrine is overwhelmingly praised for its breathtaking, unique setting within a seaside cliff cave, offering a mystical and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors love the 'undama' wishing ritual and the scenic coastal drive. While generally not too crowded, some may find the wishing stones a bit pricey.
"Udo Jingu is simply an unbelievable, breathtaking place and it’s by far my favorite spot in Miyazaki. The shrine feels like a masterpiece carved by the hands of nature itself, dramatically set inside the cliffs, facing the endless blue sea. It’s a place that instantly captures your heart with its mystical, powerful atmosphere.
Walking along the ridge paths is an adventure in itself. I was lucky to see families of wild monkeys playing and foraging together it added a magical touch to the whole experience, like stepping into a hidden world.
Inside the area, there are cozy cafés, snack stands, and charming souvenir shops, all worth a visit while taking in the view and the serene vibe.
For those taking public transport, I took the local bus from Aoshima hostel to Udo Jingu-mae—it was 1,090 yen one way, and I was pleasantly surprised that I could pay by Apple Pay directly on the bus. Of course, driving is also a great option, with parking available right at the entrance. The journey along the Nichinan coastline is as stunning as the destination itself—every curve offers new sea views. Udo Jingu is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting Miyazaki!"
Bel Zi
"Massively underrated, very beautiful shrine and not too busy. You can try throwing clay pebbles at a ring down the cliff next to the cave entrance/ temple. The pebbles cost 200¥. Hitting the target brings luck.
Don’t forget to explore well, you might find another shrine in a second cave with almost no visitors and a beautiful and adventurous path leading there!"
David Timm
"Visiting Udo Jingu was one of the most memorable parts of our Miyazaki trip—an experience that blended spiritual calm, dramatic scenery, and family-friendly adventure.
🏞️ Breathtaking Setting
Perched right into a seaside cliff, the shrine overlooks the ocean through a naturally formed cave. Walking there feels like entering an enchanted world—waves crashing below, salty sea breeze in the air, and the view through the cave like a secret window to the sea.
🙏 Tranquil & Reverent Atmosphere
Despite its natural grandeur, the shrine grounds remain peaceful and not overly crowded. The quiet murmur of prayers, rustling leaves, and ebbing waves created a soothing ambiance that instantly relaxed us all.
🍀 Love Stones & Wishing Ritual
A highlight was the famous undama (lucky stones)—small pebbles you toss into a narrow hole carved below the cave shrine. If it enters, your wish comes true! Watching each family member give it a try was full of joyful suspense—heads tilted, arms extended, kids cheering, and fingers crossed.
🚶 Scenic Hike & Great for Kids
There’s a gentle walk through wooded paths along the cliffs, giving beautiful views at every turn. Our kids were excited throughout, spotting ocean vistas and stopping for snacks from temple vendors.
✨ A Meaningful Stop
Udo Jingu isn’t just a “see-it-and-go” shrine. It offers a heartfelt, multi-sensory experience—sea echoes in a holy cave, ancient rituals, folklore, and quiet moments of reflection."
Crumpled Nomad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a local bus from Aoshima hostel to Udo Jingu-mae, which costs around 1,090 yen one way and can often be paid with Apple Pay directly on the bus. Driving is also a popular option, with parking available near the entrance. The drive along the Nichinan coastline offers beautiful sea views.
Yes, it is accessible by public transport. Buses run from nearby areas like Aoshima, making it feasible for solo travelers who don't drive.
While driving offers flexibility and stunning coastal views, public buses are a viable and convenient option for reaching Udo Shrine, especially for those without a car.
Yes, parking is available right at the entrance of Udo Shrine, making it convenient for visitors who choose to drive.
The journey along the Nichinan coastline to Udo Shrine is renowned for its scenic beauty, with new sea views around every curve.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Udo Shrine itself is generally free. However, there is a small fee for the lucky stones (undama) used in the wishing ritual.
Udo Shrine is typically open from early morning until sunset. It's advisable to check the exact hours closer to your visit, as they can vary seasonally.
There is no admission fee for Udo Shrine. The cost is primarily for the 'undama' (lucky stones) for the wishing ritual, which are usually around 200 yen.
Yes, there are souvenir shops available within the shrine grounds, offering various items related to the shrine and local crafts.
The main cave area where the shrine is located is generally accessible without a separate entrance fee.
🎫 ⛩️ Onsite Experience
The 'undama' ritual involves tossing small clay pebbles into a ring below the shrine. If the pebble lands in the ring, it's believed to bring good luck and fulfill wishes.
Udo Shrine is uniquely situated inside a natural cave on a cliff face overlooking the Pacific Ocean, offering a dramatic and mystical setting.
Yes, exploring further might lead you to another shrine in a second cave with fewer visitors, offering a more secluded and adventurous experience. Namikiri Shrine is also mentioned as being accessible via a mountain path from Udo Inari Shrine.
Visitors describe the atmosphere as mystical, powerful, tranquil, and reverent, with the sound of crashing waves and the sea breeze contributing to the serene ambiance.
Some visitors have reported seeing families of wild monkeys playing in the area, adding a magical touch to the experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The cave entrance with the ocean view, the approach paths along the cliffs, and the 'undama' ritual area offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! The dramatic cliffside setting, the natural cave, and the vibrant blue sea make Udo Shrine incredibly photogenic.
Early mornings can offer softer light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons might provide beautiful golden hour lighting.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of worshippers and any specific signage indicating restricted areas.
Some visitors have noted a resemblance to the world of Studio Ghibli's 'Spirited Away,' adding to its magical appeal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Drivers
🚶 Solo Travelers & Public Transport Users
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystical Setting of Udo Shrine
+1The architecture itself is integrated with the natural rock formations, enhancing the feeling of harmony between the man-made structure and the powerful forces of nature. The approach to the shrine often involves walking along scenic paths that offer breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline, making the journey as memorable as the destination itself.
This dramatic setting has led some to compare it to fantastical locations, with one visitor noting it feels like stepping into the world of 'Spirited Away.'
The combination of natural beauty and spiritual significance makes Udo Shrine a standout attraction in Miyazaki.The 'Undama' Wishing Ritual
This ritual is particularly popular with families, as it provides a fun and interactive way for everyone to participate. Children often get a kick out of trying to aim and throw the stones, and the collective excitement of the group makes it a memorable family bonding activity.
The 'undama' ritual is more than just a game; it's an ancient practice that connects visitors to the shrine's traditions and the hope for a brighter future. It’s a simple yet profound way to engage with the spiritual essence of Udo Shrine.
Exploring Beyond the Main Shrine
Reaching these less-visited spots might involve navigating adventurous paths. For instance, the path to Namikiri Shrine, accessible via Udo Inari Shrine, leads through a mountain trail and offers a different perspective of the coastal landscape.
These explorations can add an element of discovery and adventure to your visit, revealing more of the shrine's serene and natural beauty. These quieter areas provide a chance for deeper reflection and a more personal connection with the shrine's spiritual ambiance, away from the main crowds. It's a reminder that sometimes the most rewarding experiences are found by venturing a little further off the beaten path.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit