THESE are remarkable pictures of the first ever dramatic dives into one of Japan’s most sacred sites – the beautifully breathtaking Takachiho gorge.

Ahead of the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series stop in Japan on August 3, reigning champion Rhiannan Iffland and local diver Kyohei Arata were granted a special honour.

Rhiannan Iffland – Suguro Saito/Red Bull Content Pool

They became the first two people ever to be granted permission to dive into the gorge, known as the Valley of the Gods – the highest honour given to any event or sport in the location’s history.

Kyohei Arata – Jason Halayko/Red Bull Content Pool

Kyohei, Japan’s only cliff diver, had the privilege of opening the site to the cliff diving elite, who will compete there at in two weeks’ time on the fourth stop of the 2023 season.

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Following a purification ceremony at the Takachiho Shrine, 27-year-old local hero Arata, Australia’s Rhiannan Iffland – joined by American David Colturi – put on a premiere performance.

Kyohei Arata – Suguro Saito/Red Bull Content Pool

“This place is incredible. It’s such a natural wonder,” said Rhiannan. “I can’t wait to come back and for all the other divers from around the world to see this beautiful piece of Japan.”

Kyohei, David and Rhiannan – Suguro Saito/Red Bull Content Pool

After diving from the top of Manai Waterfall and the bridge that connects both sides of the gorge, the trio will compete in Fukuoka for the World Championships from July 25 to 27.

Read more: Amazing pictures from the 2022 cliff dive season

Main image: Rhiannan Iffland – Suguro Saito/Red Bull Content Pool