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Izumo Taisha Honden: Sanctuary of the Gods

Explore Japan's ancient roots at Izumo Taisha Honden, a sacred shrine dedicated to relationships and the land of myths.

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Izumo Taisha Honden, the main hall of Izumo Grand Shrine, is one of Japan's oldest and most important Shinto shrines. Dedicated to Okuninushi, the deity of relationships and nation-building, it's known for its unique architecture and spiritual significance.

A brief summary to Izumo Taisha Honden

Local tips

  • Remember to clap four times (instead of the usual two) during prayers: twice for yourself and twice for your partner or desired partner.
  • Explore the grounds for the many rabbit statues, which are related to the myth of Okuninushi and the white rabbit.
  • Visit the Kagura-den Hall to see Japan's largest shimenawa (sacred rope).
  • Take time to explore the smaller shrines and buildings around the main hall.
  • Consider visiting the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo to learn more about the shrine and the region's history.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Izumoshi Station, take the Ichibata Railway to Izumo Taisha-mae Station. A transfer at Kawato Station is required. The one-way fare is approximately ¥500, and the journey takes about 1 hour. From Izumo Taisha-mae Station, it's a 5-10 minute walk to Izumo Taisha Honden.

  • Bus

    From JR Izumoshi Station, take the Ichibata Bus bound for Izumo Taisha. Get off at the Seimon-mae bus stop, which is near the entrance to the main grounds. The ride takes about 25 minutes and costs ¥510. Alternatively, buses also stop at Dentetsu-Taisha-eki (¥470) and Izumo Taisha Bus Terminal (¥530).

  • Taxi

    From Izumoshi Station, a taxi to Izumo Taisha Honden takes approximately 10 minutes and costs between ¥3,500 and ¥4,300. Taxi stands are located outside the station's main exit.

  • Walking

    From Izumo Taisha-mae Station, walk along the main street towards the copper torii gate. Pass through the gate and continue along the pine-lined path to the shrine entrance. The Honden is located within the main shrine complex. Note that the main entrance has steps; a side entrance near the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo offers a smoother, accessible path.

  • Driving

    From the Sanin Expressway, take either the Izumo IC or Hikawa IC. Follow Route 431 or Prefectural Route 28 towards Izumo Taisha. Parking is available near Izumo Taisha, including Izumotaisha Parking and Kameyama Field Parking. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around ¥500 per hour. Free parking is available in Monzenmachi, a shopping street near the shrine.

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Discover more about Izumo Taisha Honden

Izumo Taisha Honden, or main hall, is the heart of Izumo Grand Shrine (officially Izumo Oyashiro), a site steeped in ancient mythology and considered one of Japan's most venerable Shinto shrines. No records exist to pinpoint its exact founding, but it was already prominent in the early 700s. Located in Izumo, Shimane Prefecture, the shrine is dedicated to Okuninushi no Okami, a deity associated with nation-building, good relationships, marriage, medicine, and agriculture. The Honden is built in the distinctive Taisha-zukuri style, believed to be the oldest form of shrine architecture, predating Buddhist influences. The current structure, dating back to 1744, stands 24 meters tall and is designated a National Treasure. It's characterized by its impressive gable-entrance structure, thick cypress bark roof adorned with chigi (forked finials) and katsuogi (horizontal billets), and a central pillar (shin no mihashira). The main hall is surrounded by two sets of fences, marking the inner sanctuaries. According to ancient texts, Izumo Taisha may have been even taller in the past, possibly reaching 48 meters. The shrine has been rebuilt and renovated over centuries, with major renovations occurring approximately every 60 years. The most recent renovation was completed in 2013. Visitors come to Izumo Taisha to pay respect to Okuninushi, pray for good relationships, and experience the unique atmosphere of this sacred site. The shrine is also famous for the Kamiari Festival in the tenth lunar month when it is believed that myriad deities gather at Izumo Taisha.

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