Guide to Izumo Taisha (Izumo Grand Shrine)

Izumo Oyashiro, commonly called Izumo Taisha or Izumo Grand Shrine, is one of Japan's oldest and most sacred Shinto shrines located in Shimane Prefecture. Revered for its spiritual significance, it is dedicated to Okuninushi no Okami, the deity of relationships and marriage.

The shrine's architectural highlight is the massive shimenawa (sacred straw rope), one of the largest in Japan, symbolizing its divine presence. Visitors can explore serene pathways lined with ancient pine trees, partake in traditional rituals, and experience rich cultural heritage.

Each autumn, the shrine hosts the Kamiari Festival, when gods from across Japan are believed to gather here.

Izumo Taisha is an historic shrine renowned as a meeting place for all Japanese deities. According to legend, Okuninushi no Okami, the deity of marriage enshrined here, forges connections among people and all living beings to ensure their collective prosperity. The shrine is also noted for its large shimenawa —straw ropes hung in sacred locations like shrines and spiritual sites to ward off malevolent forces.

The name Izumo means “out of the clouds”, suggesting a place where the real and the mystical worlds blend. Visiting Izumo feels like wandering through a space that could be anything from a beautifully maintained city park to an ancient forest full of real and mythical creatures.

November is significant for Izumo Taisha because it marks a special time when Shinto deities from all over Japan gather at the shrine for a meeting known as Kamuhakari (the Divine Council), which takes place in the 10th month of the lunar calendar. This month roughly corresponds to November on the solar calendar. During this period, the deities are believed to come together to bring people joy and ensure their happiness.

In the Izumo region, this month is celebrated as Kamiarizuki, or the Month with Gods, while the rest of Japan observes it as Kannazuki, the Month without Gods, reflecting the unique importance of this time at Izumo Taisha.

Visitors to the shrine might notice small white rabbit statues, which are linked to a story about Okuninushi no Okami saving a white rabbit from a cruel fate set by his less kind siblings.

He and his siblings were on their way to meet the beautiful princess Yakamihime in Inaba, with Okuninushi no Okami trailing behind because he had to carry his siblings’ belongings. His siblings found a rabbit in pain and lied about how to soothe the pain, worsening his condition. When Okuninushi no Okami found the rabbit, he stopped to help the rabbit, giving his siblings a head start in their attempt to win the princess’s affection. Despite their advantage, Yakamihime ultimately chose Okuninushi no Okami because of his apparent kindness and warmth.

People often visit Izumo Taisha looking for positive relationships, making it a popular spot for traditional Japanese weddings. But the shrine isn’t just about romance; it's also where people go to strengthen friendships and improve work relationships.

Izumo Taisha also has a unique way of paying respects. Instead of the usual “bow twice, clap twice, and bow once more” seen at other shrines, visitors here clap four times.

The path to Izumo Taisha stretches about 2,290 feet (700 meters) from Ichi-no-torii (first torii gate) to Ni-no-torii (second torii gate) and is lined with many souvenir shops and cafes. This area is well known for Izumo soba noodles, which are darker and served with a thick, sweet black soup. They can be enjoyed at various local restaurants.

While you're in the area, you might also want to visit the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo to learn more about local history, Inasa Beach to experience one of Japan's 100 great beaches, or the Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse to enjoy views from the tallest lighthouse in East Asia.