What kind of place is Izumo Taisha
Izumo Taisha (Izumo Grand Shrine) is one of the oldest shrines in Japan, enshrined in Taisha-cho, Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture. Its formal reading is “Izumo Ōyashiro,” and the enshrined deity is Ōkuninushi no Ōkami (Ōkuninushi). It is widely known as the god of match-making, said to govern not only the bonds between men and women, but every kind of tie — between people, in work, in study, and more.
The main hall stands 24 meters tall in the taisha-zukuri architectural style and is designated a National Treasure. The great shimenawa (sacred rope) hanging at the worship hall stretches a full 13.5 meters — an overwhelming sight, and a symbol the shrine is known for. The precinct is lined with many halls, including the Kagura-den and the Jūkusha, where you can feel the mythological world of Izumo.
In the tenth month of the old lunar calendar, while other regions call it “Kannazuki” (the month without gods), here in Izumo it is called “Kamiarizuki” (the month with gods). It is said to be the month when deities from across the country gather, and many worshippers visit from all over.
Highlights
- The National Treasure main hall — A 24-meter-tall main hall that carries on the taisha-zukuri style. It is positioned so that you cannot see it directly from the front
- The great shimenawa — The 13.5-meter shimenawa hanging at the Kagura-den. It has an overwhelming presence
- The two-bow, four-clap, one-bow manner — A way of worship that differs from ordinary shrines. Be sure to check it in front of the worship hall before you pray
- The Jūkusha — The halls where the deities from across the country are said to lodge during Kamiarizuki. There is one building each to the east and west
- The precinct halls — Several auxiliary shrines connected to Ōkuninushi are scattered throughout the precinct
- Inasa Beach — A beach of mythology within walking distance. A place you’ll want to extend your walk to after visiting the shrine (more below)
Time needed, fees, and access
The precinct is open for free worship. The time needed depends on how carefully you stroll, but it’s comfortable to allow 1 to 1.5 hours for the precinct alone, or 2 to 3 hours if you include Inasa Beach.
Access
- About 30 minutes by car from Izumo Enmusubi Airport
- About 10 minutes on foot from Izumo-Taisha-mae Station on the Ichibata Electric Railway
Address: 195 Kizuki-higashi, Taisha-cho, Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture
For the latest information on fees, worship hours, and more, please check the official website.
Who this is for
- Those who want to worship with heartfelt wishes for match-making and meeting good people
- Those interested in Japanese mythology or the history of Izumo
- Those planning a day-trip drive from the Yonago / Hōki area
Places to stop by nearby
Inasa Beach (within walking distance of Izumo Taisha) is a sandy shore said to be the stage of the Kuniyuzuri (transfer of the land) myth. On the night of the tenth day of the tenth lunar month, the “Kamimukae Shinji” (deity-welcoming rite) of the Kamiari Festival is held here, making it a special place — and it is also known as a beautiful spot for the sunset. Be sure to walk the two together: izumo-taisha and inasa-beach.
For all the spots in the area, head to the map. For historical background, take a look at the history stories as well.
