
Explore Japanese Mythology with a "Driver Guide" in Izumo: The Land of the Gods
Visit Izumo Taisha Shrine, home to the god of marriage and good fortune
The San’in or Izumo Shimane region of Japan is located along the western coast. It is known for its rich culture and stunning natural beauty. In Japan, October in the lunar calendar is known as "Kannazuki," or the "month without gods." During this time, deities from all over Japan travel to Izumo Shimane Prefecture for an annual gathering at Izumo Taisha Shrine. However, in Izumo, October in the lunar calendar is called "Kamiarizuki," or the "month with gods." It is believed that this is the only place in Japan where deities are present during this time of the year. Every year, the Kamiari Festival at Izumo Taisha Shrine celebrates this gathering of deities. Pilgrims and worshippers come from all over Japan to offer their prayers, especially for love and relationships. The festival showcases unique spiritual traditions and invites visitors to experience a mystical side of Japanese culture.
Destination: Izumo
Highlights: A guided tour of places associated with Izumo mythology (Inasa beach, Izumo-Taisha shrine, Hinomisaki-jinja shrine), a Kimono experience, and a medicinal herb tea experience.
Duration: 8 hours
Format: Optional plan
Activity Type: Kimono tour of the city, herbal tea experience and sightseeing
Interpreter/Guide: An English-speaking taxi driver who can guide you.
Season: All year round (most popular in October)
Number of participants: 2-5 people
Additional Info: This package includes the cost of the kimono dressing experience, lunch, and herbal tea experience. Please check the BOOKING page for more details on the cancellation policy.
Inasa-no-Hama Beach is a legendary site where the gods are said to have gathered to hand over the land of Japan. This beautiful shoreline, celebrated in Japanese mythology, combines stunning scenery with deep historical roots. It’s a must-visit for those wanting to connect with Japan’s ancient past.
Inasa-no-hama Beach is considered a famous spiritual "power spot." It is where the god Takemikazuchi came ashore to meet Okuninushi no Mikoto. Here, he fulfilled a mission given to him by Amaterasu Omikami, the Sun Goddess, to hand over the land of Japan.
This beautiful white sand beach is one of Japan’s 100 most stunning beaches. It has a pristine arc that stretches southward.
Just off the shore is Bentenjima, a small island with a shrine dedicated to Toyotamahime-no-mikoto. This adds to the beach’s sacred feel. At sunset, the silhouette of Bentenjima creates a breathtaking view. This spot is recognized as a Japanese Heritage site, symbolizing "Izumo, a sacred place where the sun sets."
Each year, on the 10th day of the 10th lunar month, Inasa-no-hama welcomes deities from all over Japan. It is an unforgettable destination for spiritual seekers and nature lovers.
After visiting the beach, stroll along nearby Shinmon Street to Izumo-Taisha Shrine, one of Japan’s oldest and most important shrines. Wearing a kimono, an option included in the JAL guided tour can enhance your experience. The historic atmosphere and scenic surroundings bring timeless Japanese beauty to life, creating memories you’ll cherish.
Start your journey at Izumo Taisha Shrine by walking along the 700-meter Omotesando. This main path is lined with Izumo soba noodle shops, cafes, and souvenir stores featuring unique "match-making" items. Stroll from the Otorii (Grand Gate) at Ugabashi Bridge to the shrine’s entrance. Enjoy the flavors and culture of Izumo along the way. You’ll find local delicacies and artisanal keepsakes.
For a memorable lunch, visit The Gift Izumo. This charming cafe offers rice balls, rice burgers, and herbal teas made from local ingredients. Enjoy a health-focused menu that features plant-based dishes, fresh seafood, and seasonal produce. All meals are free from eggs, dairy, and gluten. There are also vegan options and herbal teas with Izumo’s famous medicinal herbs.
Discover the secrets of Izumo’s medicinal herbs in a hands-on workshop. It begins with an introduction to ancient herbology from the Izumo Fudoki. Guided by an expert, you’ll blend teas based on your mood using aromatic leaves. Each guest will take home a small packet of blended tea, a perfect reminder of Izumo’s herbal traditions and your journey through this sacred land.
Hinomisaki-jinja Shrine is beautiful and steeped in mythology. It honors two deities and features bright vermilion buildings that resemble a dragon’s palace in a pine forest.
As you enter through the red gate, you’ll see "Hishizuminomiya" straight ahead and "Kaminomiya" up the stone steps to the right. This ancient shrine was first mentioned in the Izumo no kuni fudoki during the Nara period and later in the Engishiki of the Heian period, highlighting its historical significance.
Nearby stands Hinomisaki Lighthouse, Japan’s tallest stone lighthouse and one of the world’s top 100. It is located along the scenic Hinomisaki coastline in Daisen-Oki National Park. The area is known for its rugged cliffs, unique rock formations, and tall columnar stones shaped by the sea.
A boardwalk along the pine-lined coast allows you to enjoy nature up close. You can hear the waves crashing against the rocks, creating a peaceful and dramatic natural scene.
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
Oyado Tsukiyo no Usagi
Oyado Tsukiyo no Usagi offers a cozy, boutique-style stay in the heart of Izumo, perfect for travelers exploring this culturally rich area. Known for its charming blend of traditional Japanese design and modern comforts, the inn provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Guests can enjoy local touches throughout, from seasonal decor to authentic Japanese tea, and its proximity to the Izumo Taisha Shrine and scenic beaches makes it a convenient base. Oyado Tsukiyo no Usagi promises a unique and memorable stay with personalized service and a peaceful retreat after a day of sightseeing.
BOOK NOW
How to access Izumo?
Getting to Izumo is easy from Tokyo or Osaka. If you arrive in Tokyo, take a one-hour flight to Izumo Enmusubi Airport. If you're coming from Osaka, fly from Itami Airport to Izumo. For more convenience, consider the JAL Japan Explorer Pass.
Where is the meeting point?
What is the Kimono Experience (at Goen Style)?
Visit Izumo Taisha Shrine, home to the god of marriage and good fortune
Admire modern Japanese art: learn about ancient legends and how Japan preserves their traditional arts in sword-making and dyeing
Share
SHARE