Toyotama-hime is a goddess from Japanese mythology known for her connection to the sea, safe childbirth, and bountiful fishing. She is often depicted as the daughter of the great sea god Watatsumi, living in the mythical undersea palace of Ryugu Castle.
Her story is a mix of romance, mystery, and tragedy. She fell in love with Yamasachihiko, a prince who came to Ryugu Castle in search of a lost fishhook. However, their love was met with heartbreak, leading to a sorrowful farewell. The places and legends associated with Toyotama-hime still exist today, offering glimpses into her mystical past.
Who is Toyotama-hime?
Blessings from Toyotama-hime
As a divine figure, Toyotama-hime is believed to grant blessings for:
- Safe childbirth
- Maritime safety
- Bountiful fishing
Her connection to the ocean and fertility makes her an important goddess for fishermen, sailors, and expectant mothers.
The Daughter of the Sea God Living in Ryugu Castle
Toyotama-hime was the daughter of Watatsumi, the powerful sea god. She lived in Ryugu Castle, an undersea palace said to be filled with beauty and wonders beyond imagination.
One day, she encountered Yamasachihiko, a young prince who had lost his brother’s fishhook and was searching for it in the depths of the ocean. Their meeting would lead to an unforgettable love story.
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The Love Story of Toyotama-hime and Yamasachihiko
A Fateful Meeting Over a Lost Fishhook
Yamasachihiko, the younger of two royal brothers, had borrowed a fishhook from his elder brother but lost it while fishing. Unable to find it, he traveled to the underwater Ryugu Castle to seek help.
There, he met Toyotama-hime, who was renowned for her beauty. The two fell deeply in love and soon married, living happily together in the palace.
Three Years of Happiness and Yamasachihiko’s Departure
For three years, Yamasachihiko enjoyed a blissful life in Ryugu Castle. However, he suddenly remembered his original purpose—to find the lost fishhook.
With the help of Toyotama-hime’s father, the fishhook was found. But now, Yamasachihiko longed to return to his homeland. Despite Toyotama-hime’s love for him, he left her behind and returned to the mountains.
Birth and Farewell
The Birth Hut and the Onset of Labor
Not long after Yamasachihiko’s departure, Toyotama-hime discovered she was pregnant. She knew she could not give birth to a heavenly prince under the sea, so she traveled to land to be with Yamasachihiko.
Upon hearing this, Yamasachihiko hurriedly built a birth hut using cormorant feathers. However, before it was fully completed, Toyotama-hime’s labor pains began.
Toyotama-hime’s True Form and Her Painful Decision
Before entering the hut, Toyotama-hime made one request:
“No matter what, do not look inside while I give birth.”
However, curiosity got the best of Yamasachihiko. When he peeked inside, he was shocked—Toyotama-hime had transformed into a giant shark.
Filled with fear, he ran away. Heartbroken that her husband had seen her true form, Toyotama-hime made the painful decision to return to the sea, leaving her newborn son behind.
Lol! This is starting to sound like Izanami and Izanagi Story. If you want to know more about that, please read the article below.
A Mother’s Love Etched in Stone: Chichiiwa (Breast Rock)
Before leaving, Toyotama-hime ensured her child would not starve. She tore off her own breast and left it in the hut so that he could be nourished.
Ouch!
Unbelievable!
Even today, at Udo Shrine in Miyazaki Prefecture, a sacred rock known as Chichiiwa (Breast Rock) remains, symbolizing her undying love as a mother.
The Children of Toyotama-hime and the Birth of Emperor Jimmu
Raised by Her Younger Sister, Tamayori-hime
Though Toyotama-hime left, she remained concerned for her son, Ugayafukiaezu. She entrusted him to her younger sister, Tamayori-hime, who raised him with great care.
The Four Divine Children and the Birth of Japan’s First Emperor
Ugayafukiaezu later married Tamayori-hime.
Really?!
And they had four sons:
- Itsuse-no-Mikoto
- Inahi-no-Mikoto
- Mikenu-no-Mikoto
- Kamuyamato Iwarehiko (later known as Emperor Jimmu, Japan’s first emperor)
Thus, Toyotama-hime’s lineage continued, ultimately shaping Japan’s imperial history.
Places Associated with Toyotama-hime
Udo Shrine, Chichiiwa, and Kameishi
At Udo Shrine in Miyazaki, Toyotama-hime’s legends are preserved.
- Chichiiwa (Breast Rock): The sacred stone where she left her nourishment.
- Kameishi (Turtle Stone): When Toyotama-hime arrived from Ryugu Castle, she rode on the back of a giant turtle. Unaware that Toyotama had returned to the sea, the turtle waited endlessly and eventually turned into stone. This “Kameishi” (Turtle Stone) is adorned with a sacred rope (shimenawa) to honor its legend.
Visitors can try their luck by throwing Undama (Lucky Balls) into a hollow on Kameishi’s back. It is believed that if your ball lands inside, your wish will come true.
Shrines Dedicated to Toyotama-hime
Several shrines in Japan honor Toyotama-hime, including:
| Toyotama-hime Shrine | Kagoshima |
| Watazumi Shrine | Tsushima, Nagasaki |
| Ama-no-Iwato Shrine | Miyazaki |
Final Thoughts About Toyotama-Hime
Toyotama-hime’s story is a powerful tale of love, sorrow, and divine heritage. Her legend continues to be honored in shrines and sacred sites throughout Japan.
If you are interested in Japanese mythology, visiting these locations will provide a deeper connection to the country’s rich traditions. Why not experience the mystical world of Toyotama-hime for yourself?
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