Enshrines: Okuninushi no Okami
Established in the period of Japanese Myth.

The grand Shrine of Izumo, Izumo Oyashiro or also known as Izumo Taisya, is one of the most important shrines in Japan. It enshrines Okuninushi no Okami who is the head of all 8 million Japanese gods and founder of Japanese nation. As the leader of Japanese people in ancient period, he develops agriculture, fishery, medication and the society. In Japanese Myth, he offers the nation of Japan to Amaterasu Omikami, who is the ancestor of the imperial family. This famous transfer is called "Kuniyuzuri." This is the most important event in the history of Japan. Amaterasu Omikami deeply appreciates Okuninusni no Okami's offer, and she builts the palace of Amenohisuminomiya. This palace is today's Izumo Oyashiro. Amaterasu Omikami also sends her 2nd son, Ameno hohi, as the servant of Okuninushi no Okami. The descendant of Ameno hohi, has been served as the high priest of Izumo Oyashiro. Current Priest is 84th priest.

Izumo Oyashiro is very famous for matchmaking today. In Japan, October is called "Kannazuki." It means month of no gods because all Japanese national gods are assembled at Izumo Oyashiro. Therefore, in Izumo, October is called "Kamiarizuki." From October 11 to 17 (in the old lunar calendar), all gods travel to Izumo Oyashiro and stay at Jukusya of the shrine. They enter Izumo from Inasa Beach where Amaterasu Omikami and Okuninushi no Okami conclude the treaty of Kuniyuzuri, and travel to the shrine. This period, Matsuri called Kamiarisai is held. In this period, all gods discuss about the people's relationships, and make new relationships and fix old relationships of people. Therefore, people highly respect that Izumo Oyashiro has a power to make a great relationship.

Okuninushi no Okami is also known as the lord of underworld and ruler of human's sprits.

Honden (main shrine)
Legend said, the height of the main shrine was used to be 48m tall. Current Honden was constructed in 1744. It is about 24m tall, and still one of the largest shrine in Japan. This Honden is designated as the national treasure of Japan. Okuninushi no Okami face west, therefore, there is worshipping place on the west side of the shrine so that people can pray to face to him.

Haiden
… is a worshipping shrine. There is the greatest Shimenawa.

Kaguraden
There is also huge Shimenawa. Don't toss coin here.

Jukusya
There are two Jukusya, east and west. They are the shrines for assembled gods to stay.

Sogano Shrine
… enshrines Susano no Mikoto, the brother of Amaterasu Omikami. He father of Okuninushi no Okami.

Matsuri
Taireisai: May 14 to 16.

Kamiarisai
October 10, 11 to 17 (in the old lunar calendar).

Official Web: http://www.izumooyashiro.or.jp