出雲Ancient Japan, IZUMO

Izumo’s quiet rural nature belies a history that stretches back to Japan’s very beginnings. Long before there was a Kyoto or Nara, this region was the center of what was known as Shinkoku, the Country of the Gods.

神社仏閣

Explore the most ancient shrine in Japan.

Many of the shrines in the Izumo area figure prominently in these ancient myths and the beginnings of Japanese culture. None is more famous than Izumo Taisha. All of Japan's Shinto deities come here during the tenth month of the old lunar calendar.

食事お酒

Enjoy unique gourmet food and drink

One of the attractions of Izumo is locally made soba, which is served in lacquerware made of three round boxes.

旅行体験

Discover many amazing things in Izumo.

There are many places you should visit in the mythical land of Izumo. You can walk and eat food while enjoying the sceneries of the city and feel an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Japan.

日本遺産

The Sunset in the Sacred Land of Izumo.

The shoreline at the west end of the Shimane Peninsula is well known as the setting of Izumo’s mythology. Located on this shoreline are Inasa no Hama Beach and Hinomisaki Cape, both of which offer magnificent views of the sunset.

History of Izumo Kagura

History of Izumo Kagura

出雲神楽

History of Izumo Kagura

The Shimane Prefecture is a region which boasts a f lourishing, nationally renowned kagura scene, with over 200 kagura groups currently active in the prefecture. Within Shimane Prefecture, the regions of Izumo, Iwami, and Oki have their own unique style of kagura.