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Izumo Taisha

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Izumo Taisha

A shrine known for granting luck and love that’s also said to draw all the gods from across Japan.

4.43 21

Last update :
Head Editor : Izumo City Tourism Division

Izumo Taisha 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.Izumo Taisha

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.

Highlights

  • The official name of the shrine is “Izumo Oyashiro”, but most people read it as “Izumo Taisha”.
  • The god Okuninushi no Okami, the god of love and marriage is enshrined here. Many people come here to pray for good fortunes outside of love as well.
  • This shrine is especially busy in October as it its believed to be the month when all gods across Japan gather here.
  • The oshimenawa rope at the Kagura-den is one of the biggest in all Japan.
  • Unlike other shrines, the etiquette when visiting here is to bow twice, clip 4 times, then bow once.

Photos

  • The “haiden” worship hall.

    The “haiden” worship hall.

  • The “Kagura-den”, hall of sacred dance and music.

    The “Kagura-den”, hall of sacred dance and music.

  • The “honden” main hall.

    The “honden” main hall.

  • The second torii gate.

    The second torii gate.

  • The main “sando” promenade.

    The main “sando” promenade.

  • Inasa Beach

    Inasa Beach

  • Stone statues of rabbits dotted across the shrine grounds

    Stone statues of rabbits dotted across the shrine grounds

  • Stone statues of rabbits dotted across the shrine grounds

    Stone statues of rabbits dotted across the shrine grounds

  • oshimenawa rope

    oshimenawa rope

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have foreign language support? (If it is available, what language is available?)
A

English pamphlets are available.
There’s a building onsite with an information board that provides QR code access to English, Korean and Chinese support.

Q

Is free WiFi available in the facility?
A

Not available.

Q

Are coin lockers available?
A

Not available.

Reviews

21

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • 趙維

    The shrine grounds are huge! The buildings, the approach, and the pine trees are all beautiful. It honestly feels like stepping into a world of Japanese mythology.

  • 許思思

    Many people visit Izumo Taisha to pray for good relationships and happiness, wishing for peace and happiness for themselves, their family, and friends.

  • Lin Lui

    Walking into this shrine, you can really feel a sacred power. It brings a deep sense of comfort and peace to your soul.

  • 陳子安

    The grounds are huge and there are lots of people coming to pray. They sell many types of protective charms, and the rabbit mascot is super cute.

  • Juan 結

    The most famous thing here is the huge sacred straw rope hanging under the roof of the Kaguraden Hall. Everyone who sees it can't help but be amazed.

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Details

Name in Japanese
出雲大社
Postal Code
699-0701
Address
195 Taishachokizukihigashi, Izumo City, Shimane
Tel
0853-53-3100
Hours
6:00am - 7:00pm
Regular Holidays
None
Admission
Free
Access
7 min. walk from Izumotaisha-mae station on the Ichibata Electric Railway
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)

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