Amano Yasukawara Cave

**Stone stacking tradition:** The practice of piling stones (積み石, tsumi-ishi) isn't ancient — it began in recent decades as visitors began leaving offerings. The stones now cover the cave floor and walls, creating a folk-religious aesthetic. Participate or observe; both are acceptable. The stacked stones photograph dramatically, especially with cave's dim natural lighting. **Cave atmosphere:** The cave is large (10m wide, 30m deep) with the river flowing past its entrance. The sound of water echoing in the cave, combined with dim light filtering through the entrance, creates contemplative mood. Visit early morning (8:00–9:00) or evening (16:00–17:00) for solitude — midday sees tour groups. **Combine with Amano Iwato Shrine:** The cave is part of the Amano Iwato Shrine complex (5-min walk back). The shrine honors the cave where Amaterasu hid. Guided tours (Japanese only, free, 20 min) of the shrine and sacred cave run at 10:00, 14:00 daily. The tour shows the actual 'Amaterasu cave' (separate from Yasukawara) — viewing from distance only, photos prohibited.