In Japanese mythology, what sacred mirror is one of Japan’s Three Sacred Treasures?

In Japanese mythology, the sacred mirror that forms one of Japan’s Three Sacred Treasures is Yata no Kagami.

Yata no Kagami is described in Japanese myth as the mirror used to lure Amaterasu out of the Heavenly Rock Cave after the sun goddess withdrew from the world. The deity Ame-no-Uzume’s performance and the commotion outside the cave helped draw Amaterasu toward the entrance, where she saw the mirror and emerged.

The mirror is traditionally counted among the Imperial Regalia of Japan, together with the sword Kusanagi and the jewel Yasakani no Magatama. These objects symbolize imperial legitimacy and are traditionally presented at imperial succession rites, although the regalia themselves are not generally available for public inspection.

Yata no Kagami is especially associated with Amaterasu and Ise Grand Shrine. The mirror’s mythic role should not be confused with the sword: Kusanagi is the regalia item linked to the serpent Yamata no Orochi, while Yata no Kagami is the mirror.