Miho Shrine

First recorded in the Izumo no Kuni Fudoki compiled in 733, Miho Shrine is a venerable site of worship. It enshrines two deities: Mihotsuhime-no-Mikoto, the goddess of bountiful harvests and safe childbirth, and Kotoshironushi-no-Kami—widely revered as “Ebisu,” the deity of safe voyages and prosperous business. As the head shrine of all Ebisu shrines in Japan, Miho Shrine has long been a center of faith.

Its main hall is built in a unique architectural style known as Miho-zukuri, where two symmetrical structures are joined together, resembling a pair of birds spreading their wings. This rare design is also called Hiyoku Taisha-zukuri. The current structure, rebuilt in 1813, is designated as a National Important Cultural Property.

Since Ebisu is said to be fond of music, Miho Shrine is also known as a place to worship the god of music. Although not open to the public, the shrine houses rare instruments including Japan’s oldest music box and large ceremonial drums. The worship hall, specially designed for its excellent acoustics, occasionally hosts sacred musical performances.

Located on the tip of the Shimane Peninsula, the shrine is surrounded by scenic views of serene coves and nostalgic streets like Aoisatabatake-dori, a stone-paved road preserving the charm of the Edo period.