Screen Rock: A Silent Witness to History

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Witness the legendary site of Kuniyuzuri in Izumo, where ancient gods shaped Japan's destiny at the iconic Screen Rock.

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Screen rock

Screen Rock, or Byobu Rock, is a naturally formed rock formation in Izumo, Shimane Prefecture, Japan, that served as the backdrop for a pivotal event in Japanese mythology: the Kuniyuzuri, where control of the world was ceded to the descendants of Amaterasu. This landmark offers a tangible link to the rich mythology and history of the Izumo region.

A brief summary to Screen rock

Taishacho Kizukikita, Izumo, Taishacho Kizukikita, Shimane, 699-0702, JP
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Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Inasa Beach and Izumo Taisha Shrine to explore more of Izumo's mythological sites.
Check the local bus schedule in advance, as services may be limited, especially on weekends.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as you'll need to walk from the bus stop or parking area to reach the rock.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Izumo Station, take the Ichibata Electric Railway to Taisha Station, a 25-minute ride. From Taisha Station, take the Joto Bus towards Taishacho and get off at the 'Kizukikita' bus stop, a short walk from Screen Rock. Bus fare is approximately ¥500. Check the bus schedule in advance, as services may be limited.
Car

From central Izumo, head north on Route 9, then turn right onto Route 431 towards Taishacho. Continue on Route 431 for about 15 kilometers. Look for signs indicating Screen Rock (屏風岩) as you approach Taishacho Kizukikita. Parking is available nearby for around ¥500.

Discover more about Screen rock

Screen Rock, known locally as Byobu Rock, is more than just a geological formation; it's a landmark steeped in Japanese mythology and history. Located in Izumo, Shimane Prefecture, this rock formation is believed to be the site where the Kuniyuzuri took place. This event saw Okuninushi, a descendant of Susanoo, cede control of the world to Ninigi-no-Mikoto, the descendant of Amaterasu, marking a significant turning point in Japanese mythology.In exchange for relinquishing control, Okuninushi requested a place to worship himself and his related gods, which is said to be the origin of the current Izumo Taisha Shrine. The rock itself is a silent witness to this ancient agreement, its presence evoking a sense of the mythical era. While visitors cannot approach the crumbling rock formation, it remains a compelling site for contemplation and imagination. The area around Screen Rock offers a peaceful atmosphere, inviting visitors to reflect on the stories and legends that have shaped the cultural landscape of Izumo.Visiting Screen Rock provides a unique opportunity to connect with the roots of Japanese culture and mythology. It's a place where the past feels palpable, and the imagination can run wild with tales of gods, negotiations, and the shaping of a nation's spiritual identity.