Translation guide
The sun goddess in Japanese mythology, the most important deity in Shinto, and the legendary ancestor of the Imperial family.
Amaterasu Ōmikami
The standard Japanese name for the sun goddess.
Referring to the sun goddess Amaterasu Ōmikami in a religious, mythological, or cultural context.
The standard full name of the deity, used in formal and religious contexts. Literally 'Great Divinity Illuminating Heaven'.
Amaterasu Ōmikami is the most important deity in Japanese mythology.
A variant name emphasizing her imperial connection, sometimes used in historical or shrine contexts.
Amaterasu Ōmikami is enshrined at Ise Grand Shrine.
An ancient and rare name for Amaterasu, found in classical texts like the Kojiki. Not used in modern conversation.
In the Kojiki, she appears as Ōhirume no Muchi.
Referring to a shrine dedicated to Amaterasu or a sacred object representing her.
Discussing myths involving Amaterasu, such as the cave incident.
Referring to the belief that the Japanese Imperial family descends from Amaterasu.
The name is pronounced with a long 'o' in 'Ōmikami'. In hiragana, it is あまてらすおおみかみ. The 'Ō' is sometimes written as 'O' or 'Oh' in English, but the standard romanization is 'Ōmikami'.
Amaterasu Ōmikami is a formal, religious name. In casual conversation about mythology, people might simply say 'Amaterasu' (天照), but the full name is respectful and standard in educational or shrine contexts.
The Inner Shrine of Ise, specifically dedicated to Amaterasu. Often referred to simply as 'Ise Jingu'.
Kōtai Jingū is the Inner Shrine of Ise Grand Shrine.
The myth of the cave hiding is a highlight of Japanese mythology.
The Three Sacred Treasures, which include the mirror Yata no Kagami, associated with Amaterasu and the Imperial regalia.
The Yata no Kagami is one of the Three Sacred Treasures originating from Amaterasu.