The Izumo Taisha Grand Festival in Shimane: Warding off evil, dispelling disasters, and praying for good fortune

Known as the "Land of the Gods," Izumo is the birthplace of Japanese mythology, where many myths originated. Izumo Taisha is Japan’s oldest shrine and is regarded as the most prestigious. Every November (lunar October), while other parts of Japan call it the “Month Without Gods,” Izumo is known as the “Month With Gods,” because all the deities from across the country gather at Izumo Taisha to hold a conference with the main deity enshrined there, Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto, to discuss matters of love and marriage among mortals. This is why Izumo Taisha is famous nationwide for blessing people's prosperity and love life.

And starting on May 14th, the three-day Izumo Taisha Grand Festival will solemnly host the imperial proxy ritual. The festival consists of three parts: the regular festival on the 14th, which includes the imperial proxy ritual; the 15th and 16th are called the Second and Third Festivals, featuring activities related to the deities and a grand tea ceremony. During the sacred rituals, there is also a traditional event called “Yabusame Shinji,” where archery is performed on horseback. During the event period, nearby merchants also host entertainment programs and night markets. Watching the imperial envoy dressed in Heian-period attire come to perform the ritual offers a particularly dramatic, period-drama-like experience.

Pray for good fortune and love in your own life

Izumo Taisha boasts Japan’s only bronze torii gate. The towering pine trees along the path and the echoing sound of footsteps on the stones inspire awe. The massive 3-ton straw rope in front of the shrine was built using Japan’s oldest “Taisha-zukuri” construction method, and after centuries, it still emanates a majestic presence. The grand festival, blessed by the Emperor, adds even more reverence to the legendary tales of Izumo Taisha.

Izumo Taisha Grand Festival
Event Period: May 14–16
Event Location: Izumo Taisha, Izumo, Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture
Transportation: About 25 minutes by bus from JR Izumo Station



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