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Izumo Ōyashiro (Izumo Taisha)
4.6(32,171)
·195 Taishachō Kizukihigashi, Izumo, Shimane 699-0701, JapanCategory
Attraction
Location
195 Taishachō Kizukihigashi, Izumo, Shimane 699-0701, Japan
Featured in 5 courses
Izumo Taisha in Shimane Prefecture is one of Japan's most ancient and sacred Shinto shrines, with records of its existence stretching back to at least the early 700s. It enshrines Okuninushi no Okami, the deity of good relationships and marriage, and every autumn during the 10th lunar month (Kamiarizuki) all of Japan's Shinto deities are believed to gather here. Its main hall stands 24 metres tall, making it the tallest shrine building in Japan.
Best Time to Visit
MarAprMayOctNov
Tips
- From Matsue, take the Ichibata Electric Railway (about 1 hour) to Izumotaisha-mae Station, then walk along the pine-lined approach to the shrine.
- Etiquette note: walk along the side lanes of the pine approach — the centre path is reserved for deities. At prayer, clap four times instead of the usual two: twice for yourself, twice for your partner or wished-for partner.
- The front shrine complex is open daily 6:00–19:00; the Soga Shrine area behind the main hall is accessible until 16:30.
- Visiting during Kamiarizuki (10th lunar month, usually November) is a unique experience — this is when all of Japan's deities are said to gather here for their annual meeting.
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