Izumo Taisha is among the oldest and most important Shinto shrines in Japan, dedicated to Okuninushi, the deity of nation-building and, above all, of en-musubi — the forging of good relationships, in love and beyond. It is so revered that October, elsewhere called Kannazuki (‘the month without gods’), is known here as Kamiarizuki, ‘the month with gods’, because all Japan’s deities are believed to gather at Izumo. The shrine is famous for its colossal shimenawa straw ropes, some weighing several tonnes, and for a rare custom: worshippers clap four times rather than the usual two. A formal prayer ceremony can be arranged with the priests inside the hall.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Izumo, Shimane |
| Hours | Grounds ~6:00–20:00 (seasonal) |
| Admission | Free; museum and formal prayer extra |
| Time needed | 1.5–2 hours |
| Best time | Year-round; Kamiarizuki gathering in autumn |
What to See
- The colossal shimenawa straw ropes, weighing tonnes.
- The rare four-clap prayer custom (not two).
- The deity of en-musubi, good relationships and love.
- A formal prayer ceremony arranged with the priests.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with the En-musubi autumn festival in Kamiarizuki.
- Pair with Izumo soba by the shrine.
- Read our Shimane overview .
Getting There
- By train: Ichibata Railway to Izumo-taisha-mae, a short walk to the gate.
- By bus: direct buses run from Izumo City and Izumo Station.
Tips
Remember to clap four times, not two, when you pray here — twice for yourself and twice for a partner, present or future, in keeping with the shrine’s role in relationships. Walk the full pine-lined approach rather than entering from the side, note the huge ropes hang at the Kagura hall rather than the main hall, and if you want a formal blessing, arrange the prayer ceremony at the reception.
