Izumo, a city in Shimane Prefecture, is often referred to as the Land of the Gods. It may have something to do with the fact that Izumo Taisha (出雲大社) Shrine is located here, which is one of the oldest shinto shrines in all of Japan. There are many great reasons to pay this part of Japan a visit – and here are several reasons why I enjoyed my trip here so much.

Izumo Taisha Shrine

This might be a no-brainer if you’re headed out this way, but even if you’ve seen a number of shrines during your travels in Japan, Izumo Taisha Shrine shouldn’t be missed. The shrine itself is one where people come to pray for love – perhaps to pray for the strength and happiness of current relationships, or even for the purposes of finding the perfect partner. You’ll hear people at the shrine here clap four times – twice for themselves (which is standard!) and twice for their current or hopeful partner.

One thing you’ll likely notice at the shrine here are the giant ropes which are strung up. They’re made of straw and called shimenawa (しめ縄), and would have to be one of the most iconic features of Izumo Taisha. Interestingly, they’re the largest shimenawa in all of Japan – so take some time to marvel at the craftsmanship!

If you’d like to, you’re able to purchase an ema (絵馬) at the shrine here to hang up. The small wooden plaques are a way to write down your prayers or wishes, and by leaving them at the shrine, the gods are believed to be able to receive them. It’s always interesting to have a look and see what people are wishing for at different shrines during the course of your travels – I think one of the most touching I’ve ever seen simply said “we have everything we need”.

The shrine also sells goshuin-cho (御朱印帳), a special type of book that allows you to collect stamps from various shrines. They’ll stamp it for you here as well, and it can make for a wonderful memento that showcases all of the shrines you visit in Japan.

Try some zenzai

If you haven’t tried zenzai (ぜんざい/善哉) before, you’re in for a treat! It’s a delicious sweet consisting of a red bean paste “soup”, topped with mochi balls. It’s usually served alongside a perfectly whisked cup of matcha, and there are no shortage of places in Izumo to get your hands on some – the city is said to be the birthplace of the dessert. Dig in and enjoy!

Ride the most adorable railway ever

If you head to Izumo from Matsue (Shimane’s capital), the easiest way of access is via the Ichibata Electric Railway (一畑電車). Apart from being a convenient way from getting between two of Shimane’s fascinating cities, it’s also one of the most adorable trains you might have the pleasure of riding on! It’s decked out with images of Shimanekko, Shimane’s mascot – a cute little cat with a hat and a necklace that take inspiration from Izumo Taisha’s design. The views you’ll get out the window of the Ichibata Electric Railway are incredibly scenic as well, with lots of chances to spot Lake Shinji (宍道湖) as you’re moving!

Information

Izumo Taisha Shrine

Access by air

  • Flights operate daily to Izumo Airport from major cities.
  • Take the bus from the airport to Izumo-shi Station, which leaves approximately 10 minutes after every flight arrival. The trip takes around 30 minutes and costs 720 yen.
  • From Izumo-shi Station, take the Ichibata Electric Railway to Izumo Taisha-Mae Station. The trip takes around 25 minutes and costs 490 yen.

Access by train

  • Take the JR Line to Izumo-shi Station then change to the Ichibata Electric Railway and head to Izumo Taisha-Mae Station.
  • The trip from Izumo-shi Station to Izumo Taisha-mae Station takes about 25 minutes and costs 490 yen.
  • From Izumo Taisha-Mae Station, Izumo Taisha Shrine is a short walk away – and the stroll there allows you to browse the shopping street for souvenirs or sweet treats (like that zenzai!)

Kim

I'm Kim, and I've lived in Japan for the last five years. I've traveled to 38 of 47 prefectures during that time, and I love sharing my travel adventures with others!
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