Journey to the Mythical Land: Uncover the Enchanting Tale of Kiki Sakuya-bime in Hyuga!
Imagine a land steeped in ancient myths, where gods and goddesses walked the earth, and nature itself whispered tales of creation. Welcome to Hyuga, a region in Japan that serves as the cradle of many Shinto creation myths, and a place where you can step back in time to explore these captivating stories.
On August 26, 2025, at 8:45 PM, a treasure trove of cultural understanding was unlocked with the publication of “Kojiki Volume 1 Hyuga Myth – ‘Kiki Sakuya-bime'” on the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism’s Multilingual Database. This release offers a deeper dive into the legend of Konohanasakuya-bime, the goddess of Mount Fuji and a pivotal figure in the foundational myths of Japan.
Who is Konohanasakuya-bime? The Fiery Flower of Hyuga
Konohanasakuya-bime, often translated as “Princess Blooming Like a Tree in the Mountains,” is a goddess of striking beauty and immense power. Her story is intrinsically linked to the volcanic landscapes of Japan, particularly the majestic Mount Fuji. She is the daughter of the mountain god Oyamatsumi, and her tale is one of love, betrayal, and the enduring spirit of life.
The Legendary Encounter and a Fiery Proof:
The myth tells of her encounter with the handsome god Ninigi-no-Mikoto, the grandson of the sun goddess Amaterasu, who descended to earth to rule. Ninigi was instantly captivated by Sakuya-bime’s radiant beauty. He asked her father for her hand in marriage, and Oyamatsumi, pleased with the divine suitor, agreed, sending his elder daughter, Iwa-Naga-Hime (Princess of Eternal Rock), along with Sakuya-bime.
However, Ninigi, blinded by Sakuya-bime’s ephemeral beauty, sent Iwa-Naga-Hime back, choosing the fleeting bloom over the eternal stone. This decision led to the tragic consequence that all human lives would be short, like the blossoms of a cherry tree, rather than long-lasting, like the enduring rocks.
Sakuya-bime, after realizing she was pregnant with Ninigi’s child on their wedding night, was met with suspicion by Ninigi, who doubted the paternity. To prove her virtue and the purity of her unborn child, Sakuya-bime bravely entered a burning hut, giving birth to three sons within the flames. She and her sons emerged unscathed, a testament to her divine power and innocence. This dramatic event cemented her status as a powerful and revered goddess.
Why Hyuga is the Perfect Place to Experience This Myth:
The region of Hyuga, in Miyazaki Prefecture, is the very land where many of these foundational events are said to have unfolded. Visiting Hyuga offers a unique opportunity to connect with the origins of Japanese mythology and immerse yourself in the ancient atmosphere that inspired these powerful stories.
Imagine Yourself Here:
- Standing at the foot of sacred mountains: Feel the awe-inspiring presence of the mountains that were once the domain of Sakuya-bime’s father. Hike through lush forests and discover ancient shrines nestled within the landscape.
- Witnessing the vibrant beauty of nature: Hyuga is blessed with stunning natural scenery, from its picturesque coastline to its serene rivers and verdant mountains. As you explore, you can visualize the “blooming like a tree” essence of Sakuya-bime in the vibrant flora that surrounds you.
- Visiting Aoshima Island: This small, picturesque island off the coast of Miyazaki City is believed to be the place where Ninigi-no-Mikoto landed. The “Washi no Suko” (Giant’s Steps) on the island are said to be the footprints of the gods, a tangible connection to the mythological past.
- Exploring the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall: While not directly related to Sakuya-bime, this hall in Miyazaki City celebrates the friendship between Japan and China, reflecting a broader history of cultural exchange and shared heritage.
- Savoring local delicacies: After a day of myth-chasing, indulge in the delicious local cuisine of Hyuga. From fresh seafood to regional specialties, your taste buds will be as delighted as your mind.
The Significance of the Multilingual Database Publication:
The release of “Kojiki Volume 1 Hyuga Myth – ‘Kiki Sakuya-bime'” on the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism’s Multilingual Database is a significant step in making Japan’s rich cultural heritage accessible to a global audience. This initiative allows travelers and enthusiasts from all over the world to delve deeper into the stories that shaped Japan, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of its unique traditions.
This publication serves as an invitation, a guide that unlocks the secrets of Hyuga and its captivating myths. It’s a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing the narratives that have been woven into the very fabric of a land.
Don’t just read about the myths; come and feel them. Hyuga awaits, ready to reveal its ancient secrets and ignite your imagination. Plan your journey to this land of gods and legends, and let the story of Konohanasakuya-bime and the creation of Japan unfold before your eyes. Your adventure into the heart of Japanese mythology begins in Hyuga!
Journey to the Mythical Land: Uncover the Enchanting Tale of Kiki Sakuya-bime in Hyuga!
The AI has delivered the news.
The following question was used to generate the response from Google Gemini:
At 2025-08-26 20:45, ‘Kojiki Volume 1 Hyuga Myth – “Kika Sakuya Bime”‘ was published according to 観光庁多言語解説文データベース. Please write a detailed article with related information in an easy-to-understand manner, making readers want to travel. Please answer in English.
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