Ahala Utaki
Ahara Utaki, located in Ahara village on Izena Island, is a Utaki that has been cherished by the islanders as a sacred place of prayer since ancient times. It is the highest sanctuary on Izena Island, and is said to be the place where King Sho En, the future king of Ryukyu Kingdom, left the island at the age of 24, and his sister prayed for his safety every day at this place.
There is also a myth. Legend has it that "Amaterasu Omikami (Sun Goddess) descended on the Utaki and illuminated the island, making the world a brighter place. It is believed that Amaterasu Omikami, known as the sun god, descended to this land, filling it with light and bringing divine blessings to the island. This myth tells us that the people of Izena Island have lived with nature and nurtured a lifestyle deeply connected to the gods.
The path up to the peak is rather steep, but there is a place of worship along the way, so even those who are not confident about their physical strength can visit the temple without anxiety. This place is located in the middle of the "Samuree Road" that once led to the Tamamotoden, and is the best place to view Ahala Utaki from the front. You can quietly put your hands together and pray with respect to the Utaki even from a distance.
Surrounded by mossy stone piles and quiet forests, the natural environment surrounding the Utaki itself creates a sacred atmosphere. When you visit, touch the air with a quiet mind and feel the deep religious culture of Izena Island.
Basic Information
| Spot Name | Ahala Utaki |
| Location | Nakada, Izena Village, Shimajiri-gun, Okinawa 905-0603, Japan |
| Access | 10 minutes by car from Nakada Port |
| Charge | free |
| parking lot | Simple parking space available in the vicinity (*Caution for large vehicles) |
| equipment | There is a trail and a far-off place of worship (no observation deck, etc.) |
| remarks | Because of the steep slopes, we recommend that you bring comfortable walking shoes and water. Please visit Utaki with good manners as it is a sacred place. |
| Map | View in Google Maps |
Q&A
What kind of place is it?
Ahala Utaki is one of the most sacred Utaki on Izena Island, and nature itself is considered to be the sacred body of the island. It has been carefully protected as a place of prayer for the islanders.
Where is the far shrine (ochotsukuba) located?
The Harumyojyo, where you can see the front of the Utaki, is located on the "Samuree Road" leading to the Tamamotoden. Those who are not confident in their physical strength can worship from here.
Are there any myths or folklore?
A myth remains that "Amaterasu descended to this place to illuminate the island and brighten the world. It is also said to be the place where King Shoen's sister prayed for his safe journey.
Can I bring my child?
Because of the uphill climb, be cautious if you are with small children. It is also recommended to use the far shrine.
What is the best time to visit?
Morning to mid-day is recommended. If you visit during quiet and cool hours, you can feel the sacred atmosphere of the Utaki more.
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