Former Taisha Station: A Journey Back in Time

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Explore a beautifully preserved Imperial Crown-style railway station, once the gateway to Izumo Taisha Shrine, and a designated Important Cultural Property.

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Former Taisha Station

The Former Taisha Station, a preserved museum in Izumo, Shimane, once served as the gateway to Izumo Taisha Shrine. Built in 1924 in Imperial Crown-style architecture, it stands as a testament to Japan's railway history and is designated an Important Cultural Property.

A brief summary to Former Taisha Station

Ekidōri-441-3 Taishacho Kitaaraki, Izumo, Ekidori Taishacho Kitaaraki, Shimane, 699-0722, JP

Local tips

Check the official Izumo City website for updates on the renovation status and reopening date before planning your visit.
Take a stroll around the station grounds to admire the architecture and preserved railway artifacts.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Izumo Taisha Shrine and other attractions in the area.

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Getting There

Walking

From Izumo Taisha-mae Station, the Former Taisha Station is a 10-15 minute walk south. Alternatively, it's a 15-20 minute walk south of Izumo Taisha Shrine. The path is straightforward and well-signed.
Public Transport

From Izumoshi Station, take the Ichibata Railway to Izumo Taisha-mae Station. The ride is approximately 25 minutes and costs 500 yen. From there, it is a 10-15 minute walk south to the Former Taisha Station.
Taxi

Taxis are available from both Izumoshi Station and Izumo Taisha Shrine. A taxi from Izumoshi Station to the Former Taisha Station will cost approximately 2,500 - 3,500 yen and take around 20 minutes. From Izumo Taisha Shrine, the taxi ride is shorter and will cost around 1,000 - 1,500 yen.

Discover more about Former Taisha Station

Step back in time at the Former Taisha Station (旧大社駅, Kyū Taisha Eki), the retired terminal of the now-defunct JR Taisha Line. Opened in 1912 and active until 1990, this station played a vital role as the main entry point for pilgrims visiting Izumo Taisha Shrine. Today, the station has been preserved as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan's railway heritage.The station building, constructed in 1924, showcases a striking example of Imperial Crown-style architecture. This style, which blends traditional Japanese design with Western influences, is evident in the building's wooden facade, white plaster walls, and black tiled roof adorned with ridgepole ornaments. Inside, you'll find mannequins dressed in railway uniforms, old ticket machines, and historical photographs, evoking the station's bustling past. A preserved steam locomotive (D51) rests outside on a section of the remaining rails.The Former Taisha Station is one of only three train stations from the Taisho Period to be designated an Important Cultural Property, alongside Tokyo Station and Mojiko Station. The station stands as a reminder of the past, offering a serene escape from modern life. Visitors can explore the remnants of the old railway tracks and admire the surrounding natural beauty.Currently (July 2025), the Former Taisha Station is undergoing renovations and is scheduled to reopen on December 20, 2025.