Izumo Taisha enshrines Okuninushi no Okami, the Shinto deity of relationships, and is built in Japan’s ancient Taisha-zukuri architectural style. The giant shimenawa hanging at the Kaguraden is one of the largest sacred ropes in Japan and is truly impressive.
There are nearly 50 stone rabbits of all kinds around the shrine grounds. Some are playing, some are praying, and they all look vivid and adorable. According to legend, rabbits repaid a kindness by bringing together Okuninushi and Princess Yagami, so at Izumo Taisha, rabbits are seen as symbols of good matches and messengers of connection.
In front of the shrine, there’s a Starbucks, Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten, and more. You can also find wooden rice paddles, many of them decorated with matchmaking symbols from Izumo Taisha or delicate wood carvings. They represent connection and good luck, making them a nice gift for friends and family.
Izumo Taisha | Review by 周黛西
Other Reviews by 周黛西
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