Along the Sanin Coast of Japan, Izumo stands as one of Japan’s most spiritually significant regions. This historic city in Shimane Prefecture is steeped in mythology and ancient traditions that predate even Kyoto’s establishment. Izumo’s profound religious importance has earned it the title “Land of the Gods” (Kami no Kuni), making it an essential destination for those seeking to understand Japan’s spiritual foundations. Many of these myths have also inspired popular anime and manga, making Izumo a fascinating place for fans interested in the origins of the stories they love.
The city centres around the renowned Izumo Taisha, one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines, but the sacred landscape extends far beyond this landmark. Inasa Beach, where deities are believed to gather, and Lake Shinji with its breathtaking sunsets offer visitors glimpses into why this region has inspired countless legends. Traditional wooden architecture nestles within ancient forests, creating an atmosphere where mythology feels tangibly present.
Izumo balances its deep cultural heritage with modern life. The surrounding natural environment—from mountain forests to dramatic coastlines along the Sea of Japan—provides a fitting backdrop for this special city.
The Spiritual Majesty of Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine
Izumo Taisha is among Japan’s oldest and most revered Shinto shrines, with records dating its existence to the early 700s. Located in Shimane Prefecture, it is dedicated to Okuninushi no Okami, the deity of relationships and marriage, attracting many single women seeking divine assistance in finding a partner.
Prayer at Izumo Taisha involves a unique ritual—clapping four times instead of the customary two, with half dedicated to one’s current or desired partner.
During the 10th lunar month (typically November), all Shinto deities gather at Izumo Taisha. This period is called “Kamiarizuki” (month with deities) in Izumo, while the rest of Japan calls it “Kannazuki” (month without deities). The Kamiari Festival marks this sacred gathering.
The shrine boasts remarkable architecture, including Japan’s tallest shrine building at 24 metres. The Main Hall (Honden), constructed in 1744, exemplifies the pure Japanese “Taisha-zukuri” style that predates Buddhist influences. A massive sacred straw rope (shimenawa) hangs across the Sacred Dance Hall (Kaguraden), symbolising the boundary between divine and mortal realms. The extraordinary size of this shimenawa is unique to Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine.
The approach to the shrine begins at a giant torii gate and descends through a shopping street to Matsu no Sando, where visitors must avoid the central lane—reserved for deities.
Relax in Luxury at Hotel Kararako
Hotel Kararako delivers an elegant fusion of Western luxury and traditional Japanese ryokan hospitality in Izumo. The name “Kararako” reflects its special significance as a place where gods rest and rejuvenate—perfectly fitting for its location within the spiritual boundaries of Izumo Taisha shrine.
The hotel’s architectural centrepiece is a magnificent wooden lattice staircase that connects open bridges on each floor, symbolising the human connections we form throughout life. You are warmly welcomed by a dedicated team, who are on hand to provide invaluable assistance with genuine charm and warmth.
Each guest room features a unique colour scheme and name inspired by traditional Japanese hues, creating a distinct and immersive atmosphere. Accommodation ranges from spacious Standard rooms (42-46 square metres) to Deluxe rooms (47-49 square metres) and luxurious suites such as Asamurasaki (69 square metres) and Futaai (61 square metres). Crafted with natural materials, every room offers a serene retreat, complete with a private indoor cypress bath for ultimate relaxation.
The hotel’s restaurant, Yaku, is curated with care. The head chef ensures his diners have an extraordinary experience. He personally selects the wonderful ingredients from the San’in region. He values his connections with the many producers, and uses traditional Japanese cooking techniques to create one-of-a-kind dishes. In order to convey the appeal of the sake breweries in Shimane Prefecture, he stocks over 20 bottles of sake each season, and serves them alongside the dishes to his customers.
Additional amenities include the Haku beauty salon offering divine scalp massages, a sophisticated bar lounge, and an al fresco terrace with stunning sunset views. Throughout the property, touchless lift technology with copper leaf accents, a stunning statement spiral staircase and furnishings crafted by local artisans complement the contemporary designs, creating an authentic yet modern Japanese experience.
Soba Noodles at Kanunro
Near Izumo Taisha shrine, the elegant Kanunro offers visitors a taste of authentic local cuisine in a setting steeped in tradition. This well-regarded establishment specialises in Izumo soba, the region’s distinctive buckwheat noodles.
Unlike other varieties, Izumo soba uses the hull of the buckwheat seed, creating noodles with a darker colour and more robust flavour profile. Traditionally served in special round lacquered bowls called “warigo,” dining on these noodles is both a culinary experience and cultural ritual.
Kanunro’s skilled chefs prepare their soba with meticulous attention to detail, honouring centuries-old traditions. Visitors consistently praise both the quality of cuisine and the restaurant’s charming ambiance, making it an essential stop during your Izumo exploration.
A Taste of Tradition on the Izumo Fuji Sake Brewery Tour
In the heart of Izumo, a region renowned as the birthplace of sake brewing in Japan, sits the charming Fuji Shuzo brewery. Founded in 1939 by Shoichi Imaoka, this small but distinguished establishment crafts the celebrated “Izumo Fuji” brand.
The brewery is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from JR Izumo City Station. Fuji Shuzo was named to reflect its lofty ambitions—producing sake as beloved as Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji.
What sets Izumo Fuji apart is their dedication to traditional methods. You can observe the remarkable Kibune Shibori pressing technique, where brewers manually place unrefined sake into fabric bags and stack them by hand. This labour-intensive process yields purer sake with minimal stress on the liquid.
The brewery maintains strong ties with local farmers through the Nojiri Farming Cooperative. They cultivate Sakanishiki, a premium sake rice native to Izumo, using eco-friendly methods that minimise pesticides and chemical fertilisers.
Seasonal varieties feature prominently in their offerings, reflecting the natural rhythms of Izumo’s agricultural landscape. Each bottle represents the culmination of meticulous handcrafting by skilled artisans dedicated to their craft.
Sake tastings are available, allowing you to appreciate the nuanced flavours that result from these traditional brewing practices. The brewery’s commitment to quality over quantity is evident in every sip.
Sleep by the Sea at Rita Izumo Sagiura
Rita Izumo Sagiura offers charming accommodation in a historic fishing village along the Sea of Japan, north of Izumo Taisha Shrine. This seaside property features beautifully renovated old houses that preserve the authentic character of this once-bustling port town, blending traditional structures with modern comforts.
Four distinct accommodation options are available. Kamaya “Shiohana” accommodates up to four guests in elegant merchant-style architecture overlooking the harbour and traditional red-tiled rooftops. Kamaya “Shiokaze” is a two-storey retreat for two, featuring a sea-facing terrace with views of the emerald ocean and mountains. Hamakoya “Port Side”, a former boat lodge, maintains an authentic fishing village atmosphere and can host up to six guests, ideal for families. Hamakoya Annex “Funayado” offers unique accommodation for up to four guests, distinguished by earthen walls and a mezzanine floor, with views of red-tiled streets against verdant mountains. All rooms include modern amenities such as air conditioning, complimentary WiFi, and kitchen facilities in most units, with free private parking on-site.
Located approximately 10 km from Gakuen-ji Temple and 11 km from Izumo-Taisha Grand Shrine, Rita Izumo Sagiura serves as an ideal base for exploring the region’s cultural treasures.
Camellia Oil Extraction Experience and Oil Hand Therapy
Just a few moments from Rita Sagiura is the most enchanting workshop and spa. Enjoy a heavenly camellia oil hand therapy experience whilst taking in a stunning view of the sea. This relaxing treatment uses locally produced camellia oil, known for its gentle anti-inflammatory properties and skin benefits.
You can also participate in the therapeutic camellia oil extraction process. This hands-on activity teaches you how to press the oil from camellia seeds using traditional methods.
The extraction process follows a series of fascinating steps, beginning with cracking the dried seed pods to reveal the inner seeds. These are then carefully removed and placed into a special bag, ready for pressing. A hydraulic press is used to extract the precious camellia oil, ensuring the highest quality and purity.
Following the extraction, you can indulge in a delightful tea time, sampling freshly pressed camellia oil with bread. Renowned for its versatility, this exceptional oil is not only enjoyed for its flavour but also prized for its high smoke point, making it an excellent choice for cooking.
For those interested in crafting, the venue offers a hand cream and lip balm making workshop using camellia oil as the base ingredient. Create your personalised products to take a little of Sagiura’s magic home with you.
Admire the Craftsmanship of Shussaigama
Shussaigama (Shussai Kiln) stands as a treasured folk craft pottery studio in Izumo. Founded in 1947 by five childhood friends—sons of local farmers barely 20 years old—this workshop blends Japanese craftsmanship with influences from the British arts and crafts movement.
Using exclusively local materials, including regional soil, the artisans create practical yet beautiful pottery designed to enhance everyday life, following the philosophy of Japan’s folk craft movement leaders.
Their distinctive workshop, originally a rice warehouse renovated in 1965, features a reddish-brown Sekishu tile roof exemplifying traditional Izumo architecture. Inside, approximately 15 craftsmen work at individual potter’s wheels, each specialising in particular pieces.
The traditional climbing kiln with six consecutive chambers is particularly impressive. Fired three to four times yearly, it consumes about 400 bundles of split pine logs, reaching temperatures of 1,260-1,270°C and producing over 3,000 pottery pieces in just two days.
Shussaigama’s distinctive ceramics include black and white glazed designs, ‘Milky Way’ effect bowls, and crème brûlée-style containers, alongside everyday tableware. Visitors can explore both the workshop and kiln, with an on-site shop offering ceramics and artisanal treats from their bakery.
Divine Doria’s at Daishime
Daishime is a charming izakaya located near Izumo Taisha Shrine, Japan. Since 1980, it has offered an authentic dining experience that combines traditional Japanese izakaya culture with creative culinary innovations.
The interior of Daishime presents an intimate atmosphere with a unique layout. You can choose between sitting at the bar stools surrounding the open kitchen, where chefs prepare meals before your eyes, or in the elevated tatami corner where you remove their shoes and sit cross-legged at low tables in traditional Japanese fashion.
One unexpected delight is the strikingly decorated bathroom, inspired by a lush botanical garden. It provides a surprising contrast to the dark and eclectic interiors of this intimate and unforgettable restaurant.
Daishime has earned a reputation for its exceptional fusion cuisine that blends Western and Japanese flavours and techniques. The menu showcases various pizzas, pasta and rice-based dishes that incorporate local ingredients. The Ketchup Doria is the perfect comfort dish, it features white rice topped with sautéed meat and vegetables, covered with béchamel sauce and cheese, then baked to perfection—truly exemplifying yōshoku cuisine.
Izumo is a captivating destination steeped in spiritual importance and rich folklore. Whether you are looking for spiritual fulfillment, natural beauty for its cultural depth or natural charm, Izumo has it in abundance.
