Discover Shimane, Japan | Your Ultimate Guide to a Day Trip at Izumo Taisha! A Sacred Haven for Love

If you're heading to Shimane Prefecture in Japan, you absolutely can't skip the legendary Izumo Taisha! As one of Japan's top three sacred sites for romance, it's especially popular in November, known as "Kamiari Month," when it's believed that all the gods gather here. This makes it an ideal time for singles to visit and seek blessings. Kinnso has put together the ultimate day trip guide to Izumo Taisha, complete with transportation tips and nearby attractions to make your planning a breeze.

If you're planning a trip to Izumo Taisha from Osaka, Kyoto, or Hiroshima, the easiest way to get there is by hopping on the JR Limited Express trains "Yakumo" or "Izumo." These trains will take you straight to JR Izumo City Station. Once you arrive, just catch the Ichibata Bus, and in about 30 minutes, you'll be at Izumo Taisha.

For those starting their journey in Tokyo, you can fly directly to Izumo Airport. After landing, simply transfer to the airport shuttle bus, which will also get you to Izumo Taisha in roughly 30 minutes.

When you step into Izumo Taisha, start your visit by cleansing your hands and mouth at the chozu-sha, the purification fountain. This ritual helps to purify both your body and mind. Once you're refreshed, make your way through the 50-meter-long corridor. Here, you'll come across the impressive shimenawa (a sacred rope) and trees decorated with wooden plaques, which symbolize wishes and blessings. Don’t forget to hang your heartfelt wishes on an ema (wooden plaque) and pray for divine protection!

Now, it’s time for the main event – worshiping at the main shrine. Begin by offering a monetary donation at the offering box. Then, join your hands in prayer, bow twice, clap your hands twice to show your respect, and finish with one last bow. Throughout this process, keep a sincere heart and genuinely express your wishes to the deities.

While the main hall is a highlight, don't forget to explore the other shrines within the Izumo Taisha grounds to boost your luck!

1. Yaoyorozu Shrine: Dedicated to Japan's countless deities, this shrine offers blessings for your career, academic achievements, and family growth.

2. Shikina Shrine: According to legend, this is where the great deity Okuninushi met his wife, Kushi-nada-hime. A visit here is believed to greatly enhance your romantic prospects!

3. Yuka Shrine: This shrine is perfect for praying for good fortune, happiness, and the removal of any misfortunes.

4. Suwa Shrine: Specializing in love and relationship issues, this shrine encourages visitors to wash their hands at the nearby purification basin after praying, and to wet a handkerchief for personal blessings!

1. Izumo Ancient History Museum: Dive into the rich history and culture of Izumo Taisha and its surroundings at this fascinating museum. It's definitely worth a visit!
   Address: 99-4 Kizuki Higashi, Taisha Town, Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture

2. Hirata Honjin Memorial Museum: Step back in time to the Edo period and explore the lifestyle and growth of the Izumo region at this insightful museum.
   Address: 515 Hirata Town, Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture

3. Hinomisaki Lighthouse: Known for its eye-catching red and white design, this lighthouse is a perfect spot to catch stunning sunsets over the Sea of Japan.
   Address: Hinomisaki, Taisha Town, Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture

To sum it up, Izumo Taisha is one of Japan's most cherished national shrines, boasting a rich history of 1,400 years. It's famous for being a sacred spot where people seek blessings for love and romance. If you're single, why not seize the unique chance during the "Month of the Gods" to visit Izumo Taisha and sincerely pray for your romantic future? Who knows, you might just meet that special someone under the benevolent gaze of the deities and start a beautiful journey together!