Izumo Taisha Travel Guide: Best Day Trip Itinerary, Map & Local Food Recommendations in Shimane

2025年9月14日

外資系SEOスペシャリスト

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If you’re planning a trip to Shimane Prefecture, one place you absolutely shouldn’t miss is Izumo Taisha (Izumo Grand Shrine)—a sacred Shinto shrine famous for its history, traditions, and spiritual energy.

Known as the “Shrine of Marriage and Good Fortune”, Izumo Taisha is one of Japan’s oldest shrines, mentioned in the Kojiki (Japan’s earliest historical record). Every year, countless visitors come to pray for good luck, relationships, and prosperity.

In this guide, I’ll share a one-day itinerary for visiting Izumo Taisha, including nearby attractions like Inasa Beach, recommended local food such as Izumo soba, and useful travel tips. Whether you’re looking for cultural insights, spiritual experiences, or simply a relaxing day trip in Shimane, this article will help you make the most of your visit.

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Inasa Beach – A Romantic Spot Near Izumo Taisha

On the day I visited, the wind was incredibly strong!
Inasa Beach is deeply connected to Japanese mythology. It is said that this is the very place where Takemikazuchi-no-Kami, a deity sent by the sun goddess Amaterasu, met Ōkuninushi-no-Kami to negotiate the transfer of the land.

According to tradition, on the 10th day of the 10th lunar month, all the gods from across Japan arrive at Izumo by landing on this beach. Even today, the Kami-mukae Festival is held here to welcome them, making it one of Izumo’s most spiritual power spots.

A solitary rock formation rises dramatically from the shore, radiating an almost sacred atmosphere. In winter, the rough waves of the Sea of Japan highlight its wild beauty, while in summer, the scenery is calm and soothing.

This was my first visit, and despite the strong winds, the beach was filled with tourists who came to enjoy its legendary atmosphere. If you’re visiting Izumo Taisha, I highly recommend stopping by this mystical beach—it’s a place where history, nature, and mythology truly come together.

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The Charm of Izumo Taisha – Shimane’s Most Famous Power Spot

When people think of Shimane Prefecture, the first destination that comes to mind is undoubtedly Izumo Taisha (Izumo Grand Shrine).

Renowned as the Shrine of Marriage and Good Fortune, Izumo Taisha is one of Japan’s most ancient shrines, even mentioned in the Kojiki, Japan’s oldest historical record. Until the early Meiji period, it was known as Kizuki Taisha.

Inside the grounds, you’ll find a massive sacred straw rope (shimenawa) weighing about one ton—an overwhelming sight that symbolizes divine protection. During my visit, a festival dedicated to the deities of Izumo was taking place, and many visitors stopped to watch the lively performances of flutes and drums, filling the atmosphere with powerful energy.

You can also purchase a variety of charms and try unique omikuji (fortune slips) that describe your future luck without ranking it as “good” or “bad,” offering a deeper reflection on your path.

The shrine buildings themselves exude history and dignity, and just standing within the grounds feels energizing. It’s no exaggeration to say that Izumo Taisha is Shimane’s number-one spiritual power spot.

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Local Gourmet Near Izumo Taisha – Try Authentic Izumo Soba

After exploring Izumo Taisha, I stopped by a soba restaurant called “Michikusa”, located on the shopping street right in front of the shrine’s entrance.

Here, I enjoyed freshly made juwari soba—buckwheat noodles crafted entirely from buckwheat flour without any wheat filler. This 100% soba style has a unique texture and rich flavor, making it a must-try for noodle lovers.

The broth is also special: made with carefully selected ingredients and completely free of additives, enhancing the natural taste of the soba. The noodles were smooth, aromatic, and full of character.

Interestingly, the owner mentioned that during busy holiday periods, they sometimes develop tendonitis from making too much soba by hand—proof of just how popular this dish is with visitors!

In addition to soba, Izumo is also the birthplace of “Zenzai”, a sweet red bean soup often served with mochi. While I was too full to try a large serving, I did manage to enjoy a zenzai mochi, which was the perfect sweet treat to end the meal.

If you’re visiting Izumo Taisha, make sure to try both Izumo soba and zenzai—they are local specialties that perfectly capture the taste of Izumo.

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Recharge Your Spirit at Izumo Taisha

At the entrance of Izumo Taisha, I took a commemorative photo—it was my very first visit, and I learned so much during the trip.

I’ve always loved visiting shrines and spiritual spots, and Izumo Taisha exceeded my expectations. The atmosphere was powerful yet peaceful, and the shrine grounds were filled with a sense of history and energy.

Right in front of the main gate, you’ll even find a uniquely designed traditional-style Starbucks. Its Japanese-style wooden architecture blends beautifully with the shrine town, and many visitors stop by just for the experience.

From sacred rituals to modern touches, Izumo Taisha truly offers a blend of history, culture, and spirituality. If you’re planning a trip to Shimane, this is one destination you simply cannot miss.

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Author of this article

Takuma Oka 外資系SEOスペシャリスト

I’m a web marketer passionate about SEO, AI, and Web3. Currently working fully remote from Manila, Philippines, as a Japanese SEO Specialist at a global company. I also have experience in site M&A, Kindle publishing, and teaching on Udemy. Former Japan Air Self-Defense Force member, now based mainly in Southeast Asia. With 9 years of SEO experience, my hobbies include studying Chinese and running.