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Izumo Taisha

島根県出雲市大社町杵築東195View on map

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One of Japan's oldest and most revered shrines, drawing worshippers from across the country seeking blessings in love and relationships. Every October by the lunar calendar, the gods of Japan are said to gather here—making this the 'Month of the Gods' (Kannazuki) everywhere else and the 'Month with Gods' (Kamiari-zuki) here in Izumo.

Shrine Info

Enshrined Deity
大国主大神(おおくにぬしのおおかみ)
Founded
神代(古代)とされ具体年は不詳。社伝では垂仁天皇時代が第1回造営、斉明天皇5年(659年)が第2回造営とされる
Annual Festival
出雲大社大祭礼・例祭(5月13〜16日)、神在祭(旧暦10月11〜17日)、大祓(12月31日)

History & Origins

This sacred site is connected to the ancient myth of Okuninushi no Mikoto, who gifted the land to the heavenly deities. The enshrined deity is revered for blessings spanning love, health, agriculture, and many other aspects of life.

Highlights

The main hall (a National Treasure), the kagura-den hall with Japan's largest shimenawa sacred rope (13 m long, 5.2 tonnes), and the tree-lined approach are unmissable. The avenue of pine trees lends the grounds an air of timeless dignity.

Visitor Guide

The proper way to pray here is with two bows, four claps, and one bow—unique among major shrines. Early morning visits are strongly recommended. Expect large crowds during Kamiari-zuki (around November).

Best Season

Visits are welcome year-round, but the Kamiari-zuki (Month with Gods, around November) carries a uniquely sacred atmosphere.

Annual Events

  • 5月13〜16日

    出雲大社大祭礼(例祭)

    古くは「三月会」と呼ばれる出雲大社で最も重要な祭典。天皇陛下の勅使が御幣物を奉納。的射祭・神輿渡御祭・神楽奉納などが行われる

  • 旧暦10月(11月頃)

    神在祭(かみありさい)

    全国の八百万の神々が出雲に集い、縁結びをはじめ人々の人生に関わる諸事の神議りを行うとされる。他地方の「神無月」が出雲では「神在月」と呼ばれる由縁

  • 12月31日

    大祓(おおはらえ)

    1年間の罪穢れを祓い清める年末の祓いの神事