Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine

Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine is one of the most revered, ancient shrines in Japan, along with Ise Jingu Shrine. Its records go as far back as writings from the Kojiki, Japan’ oldest historical account compiled in 712. The deity enshrined here is Okuninushi no Okami, who is known as the deity of love and marriage.

The front of the kagura-den hall boasts the famous “oshimenawa” rope. Measured at 13-meters long and a weight of 5.2 tons, it’s one of Japan’s largest sacred cords. The main hall was reconstructed in 1744 using ancient shrine architectural styles that earned a status of “National Treasure”. On the grounds you’ll also find 4 torii gates, a sando promenade lined with 400+ year-old pines, and the largest national flag in Japan.

According to tradition, October is called “Kannazuki” or (lit. “the month of no gods”), because all of the gods are said to leave their shrines and gather at Izumo Taisha. For the locals of Izumo, October is known as “Kamiarizuki” (month of gods) because they are said to draw near here. There are many worshippers who visit the shrine in October because its believed you can pray to any of the gods across Japan at one place.
About 1 kilometer west of Izumo Taisha shrine is Inasa Beach, which is said to be the waiting place for the gods during this sacred season.

Izumo Taisha shrine is deeply related to the Japanese myth The White Rabbit of Inaba, which is why you can find many cute, stone statues of rabbits dotted across the shrine grounds.