Shimane: Myths and History

Izumo Taisha is a nationally renowned shrine dedicated to Okuninushi-no-Okami, the deity of marriage and connections. Its main hall is designated as a national treasure, and the Taisha-zukuri architectural style, standing 24 meters high, represents Japan's oldest shrine building form. The massive rope at the Kagura Hall is approximately 13 meters long and weighs about 5.2 tons—truly awe-inspiring.

Every year in the tenth month of the lunar calendar, deities from across Japan are said to gather in Izumo, which is why this month is called 'Kannazuki' (the month of the gods) in the Izumo region.

Matsue Castle is the only existing castle tower in the Sanin region and was designated as a National Treasure in 2015. The castle tower, characterized by its black exterior, is also known as 'Chidori Castle,' and its dignified presence is truly beautiful.

Adachi Museum of Art is located in Yasugi and houses a celebrated garden that has been consecutively ranked #1 in Japanese garden rankings by a prestigious American publication for over 20 years. The museum's unique "living frame" appreciation method—where windows serve as frames—offers an unparalleled viewing experience.

Yaegaki Shrine in Matsue is a matchmaking shrine dedicated to Susanoo no Mikoto and Inada Hime no Mikoto. It is known as the setting of Japan's oldest waka poem: 'Eight clouds arise, eight-layered walls of Izumo, a spouse embraced.'

The shrine's signature 'mirror pond fortune-telling' involves floating a coin on paper in the pond. The speed of sinking and distance traveled reveal your romantic fate—quick sinking suggests love is near, while drifting far indicates a connection with someone distant.