Izumo Taisha

Izumo Taisha (出雲大社), also known as Izumo Grand Shrine, is a Shinto shrine located in Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the oldest and most important Shinto shrines in Japan, and is dedicated to the god Okuninushi, who is believed to be the deity of marriage, matchmaking, and good relationships.

The shrine complex covers an area of over 400,000 square meters and includes several buildings, including the main hall, called honden, which is the oldest standing example of Shinto architecture in Japan. The honden is believed to have been rebuilt in the 18th century in the unique “taishe-zukuri” style, and is designated as a National Treasure of Japan.

The shrine is also known for its “Kamiari-sai” festival, which takes place every year in the tenth month of the old Japanese calendar (usually coinciding with November in the Gregorian calendar). During this festival, it is believed that all the Shinto deities from across Japan gather at Izumo Taisha to discuss matters of human relationships and marriages. The festival is known for its solemn atmosphere, with various rituals and ceremonies taking place throughout the week.

One of the most striking features of Izumo Taisha is the massive shimenawa (sacred rope) hanging at the Kaguraden (hall of sacred dance). This shimenawa is one of the largest in Japan and is considered a symbol of the shrine’s power and importance.

Getting there

By Train

From Izumoshi Station:

• Take the Ichibata Railway to Izumo Taisha-mae Station
• Journey time: About 25 minutes
• Cost: 500 yen one way
• Transfer required at Kawato Station

From Matsue:

• Take the Ichibata Railway from Matsue Shinjiko Onsen Station
• Journey time: About 1 hour
• Cost: 820 yen one way
• Transfer required at Kawato Station

By Bus

From Izumoshi Station:

• Take the Ichibata Bus bound for Izumo Taisha
• Get off at Izumo Taisha Seimon-mae
• Journey time: About 40 minutes
• Cost: 510 yen one way
• Frequency: Roughly every 30 minutes

From Izumo Enmusubi Airport:

• Take the Ichibata Bus to Izumo Taisha Seimon-mae
• Journey time: 45 minutes

By Car

From Izumo Enmusubi Airport:

• Journey time: About 25 minutes

From Izumoshi Station:

• Journey time: About 25 minutes

Details

Hours	6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Admission	Free
Phone	+81 853-53-3100
Address	195 Taishacho Kizukihigashi, Izumo, Shimane 699-0701
Official Website	https://izumooyashiro.or.jp/