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Explore Japanese Mythology with a "Driver Guide" in Izumo: The Land of the Gods

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Explore Japanese Mythology with an Expert Guide in Izumo: The Land of the Gods
Adventure in style with Izumo Kanko Taxi
Izumo Taisha Shrine Main Hall
Matsue Castle
John Anthony Belluscio

Visit Izumo Taisha Shrine, home to the god of marriage and good fortune

Recognized as one of the most important shrines in Japan, the Izumo Taisha Shrine is so old that its precise origins have been lost to history. With the shrine mentioned in both the Kojiki and the Nihon Shoki over 1,300 years ago, these ancient chronicles describe how a deity called Okuninushi, the mythical pioneer and ruler of Izumo, received the shrine as a gift from the sun goddess Amaterasu. Today, the Izumo Taisha Shrine's main hall enshrining Okuninushi is designated as a national treasure. In fact, legend says all eight million Shinto gods gather every year at the Izumo Taisha Shrine for Kamuhakari, a meeting to discuss marriage, humanity, and more. Known as Kamiarizuki (The Month of the Gods), this period in the lunar calendar usually falls in October, while everywhere else in Japan observes Kannazuki (A Month Without Gods). To celebrate this event, the Izumo Taisha Kamiari Festival is held at the shrine over the course of a week every year, where various ceremonies welcome the gods, and visitors from near and far express their gratitude. No matter when you visit, international travelers can soak up the stunning gardens and historic architecture, as they pray for healthy relationships, from the romantic to the professional.

Package Highlights

Destination: Izumo

Major contents: Tour of Izumo’s historic destinations

Duration: 5 hours

Format: Optional plan

Activity Type: Sightseeing

Interpreter/Guide: English-speaking driver

Season: All year round

Number of participants: 2-5 people

Additional Info: This course does not include lunch. Please check the BOOKING page for more details on the cancellation policy.

FEATURED

Adventure in style with Izumo Kanko Taxi

 

Adventure in style with Izumo Kanko Taxi

Getting the most from your visit to the Izumo Taisha Shrine is made easy with our English-speaking guides. Supported by Izumo Kanko Taxi, a highly experienced charter service, we’ll pick you up at Izumo Enmusubi Airport, JR Izumo-Shi Station, or your hotel in Izumo City, so you don’t have to worry about transport upon your arrival.

John Anthony Belluscio, an American citizen who has lived in Japan for many years, is in charge of international tourism. With in-depth knowledge of the Izumo region’s historic shrines, temples, and mythological spirits, John is an incredible resource bound to make your visit even more rewarding.

Your journey will also be remarkably comfortable, with Izumo Kanko Taxis supported by a fleet of modern Toyota Gran Ace and HiAce VIP vehicles. These vehicles feature spacious interiors for up to five passengers, reminiscent of flying business class. Perfect for long trips, they include features like, heated seats, drink holders, and more.

Please note: Drivers and vehicles may differ from those listed above depending on their availability.

Discover the birthplace of the iconic Hare of Inaba tale

 

Discover the birthplace of the iconic Hare of Inaba tale

If you’re a fan of Japanese mythology, there’s a good chance you’ve heard about the Hare of Inaba fable. This famous myth was recorded in the Kojiki, describing how a white hare is skinned by sharks but recovers after being encountered by the god Okuninushi, who advises the hare to bathe in fresh water and roll in the pollen of cattail plants. 

With the hare quickly returning to good health, he reveals himself to be a god, telling Okuninushi that he will marry Princess Yakami as gratitude for his help. By responding to the hare's pleas for help, Okuninushi showed courage, compassion, and wisdom – all lessons evoked by this ancient tale.

Reflecting the significance of this story in Japanese mythology, visitors to the Izumo Taisha Shrine will notice stone rabbit statues guarding the shrine. With numerous pairs of cute rabbits spread throughout the gardens in different poses, they serve as a reminder of Okuninushi’s benevolent nature while protecting the enshrined deity.

Explore the main hall’s historic soaring secrets

 

Explore the main hall’s historic soaring secrets

Constructed in 1744, the current main hall of the Izumo Taisha Shrine rises to 24 meters tall, making it the tallest shrine in Japan. However, there’s significant evidence to suggest the building was much higher in the past. In 2000, researchers unearthed three gigantic pillars, leading some experts to estimate the height of the Grand Shrine during the Heian period (794-1185) to reach a staggering 48 meters.

With the ancient chronicles of Kojiki and Nihon Shoki both describing the Izumo Taisha Shrine as the largest wooden structure in Japan, perhaps this age-old evidence supports these historic texts. This grandeur is also reflected in the sheer scale of the shimenawa rope adorning the entrance to the Kagura Hall. Measuring 13 meters long and weighing four and a half tons, its size is said to represent the divine importance of Okuninushi.

HOTELS

JAL Vacations Recommended Hotels

  • Oyado Tsukiyo no Usagi

    Oyado Tsukiyo no Usagi

    Set just an 8-minute walk from Izumo Taisha Shrine, Oyado Tsukiyo no Usagi offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for families and couples. Featuring a rooftop garden, private bathhouses, and a comfortable stay in Izumo awaits.
    BOOK NOW

  • Inishie no Yado Keiun

    Inishie no Yado Keiun

    Indulge in a modern hot spring inn at Inishie no Yado Keiun. Calm and luxurious, this rewarding stay offers open-air baths, outstanding coastal cuisine, and guest rooms filled with high-quality furnishings. You’re also ideally positioned to explore the Izumo Taisha Shrine.
    BOOK NOW

  • Hotel Ichibata

    Hotel Ichibata

    Booking a stay at Hotel Ichibata in Matsue City means you’ll find even more memorable experiences. Featuring lakeside guest rooms, top-notch dining, and inviting natural hot springs, immense relaxation comes easily. As this hotel is located outside Izumo, it cannot be used as a meeting place for this tour.
    BOOK NOW

  • Matsunoyu

    Matsunoyu

    Enjoy a stay in Matsue City at Matsunoyu Tamatsukuri Onsen. Here, you’ll find open-air and private baths overlooking a serene garden alongside an excellent buffet restaurant. Meanwhile, a bar inspired by 1950s American diners serves cocktails until late. With this hotel situated outside Izumo, it cannot be used as a meeting place for this tour.
    BOOK NOW

FAQ

  • What’s the best way to get to Izumo from Tokyo or Osaka?

    Traveling to the enchanting San’in region and fascinating cities like Izumo is simple from Tokyo or Osaka. Travelers from Tokyo can touchdown at Izumo Enmusubi Airport in 1 hour and 45 minutes. Meanwhile, those flying from Osaka International Airport can reach Izumo in around 45 minutes. Get the JAL Japan Explorer Pass for added convenience while traveling around Japan.