Ama-no-Uzume Facts for Kids

Tablet at the Ama-no-Uzume Shrine in Takachiho.

Ame-no-Uzume-no-mikoto (天宇受売命) is a special Kami (a spirit or god) in the Shinto religion of Japan. She is known as the Kami of dawn, happiness, and joy. Uzume is famous for her important role in the story of the sun goddess, Amaterasu.

Amaterasu's brother, the storm god Susano'o, caused trouble. He damaged her sacred buildings and hurt her helpers. Amaterasu became very scared of his actions. She decided to hide inside a cave called Ame-no-Iwato (天の岩戸).

When Amaterasu, the sun goddess, hid away, the world became dark. Without the sun's light, the world was a gloomy place. The Oni (which are like devils in Japanese stories) came out into this dark world. The other gods tried many things, but they could not make Amaterasu leave the cave.

How Uzume Brought Back the Sun
Uzume's Legacy
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How Uzume Brought Back the Sun

The gods needed a clever plan to get Amaterasu out. Uzume, who was very smart, came up with an idea.

Uzume's Clever Dance

Uzume took a small boat and turned it upside down near the cave's entrance. She then began to dance on it. As she danced, she made the other Kami laugh. They thought her dance was very funny and started laughing loudly and happily.

Amaterasu Looks Out

Amaterasu heard all the laughter from inside the cave. She wondered why the gods were so happy. Curious, she looked out of the cave to see what was happening.

The Sun Returns

When Amaterasu opened the cave, she saw her own beautiful reflection. Uzume had placed a mirror on a nearby tree. Amaterasu slowly came out of the cave, drawn by her reflection.

At that moment, another god named Ameno-Tajikarawo (天手力男命) quickly closed the cave behind her. This made sure she could not go back inside. Another god then tied a special rope across the entrance. The Kami Ame-no-Koyane (天児屋根命) asked the sun goddess to return with them. Amaterasu agreed, and light came back to the earth.

Uzume's Legacy

Uzume is still worshipped today as an important Shinto kami. She is also known by other names, such as Ame-no-Uzume, The Great Persuader, and The Heavenly Alarming Female. Her story shows the power of joy and cleverness.