Izumo

About Izumo

Izumo is a fascinating place. Land of legends, the province of the gods, the birthplace of Japan – these are just a few of the words used to describe this scenic city along the Sea of Japan. If you’re a Japanese history and culture buff, this is your proverbial candy store. Start your adventure at Izumo Taisha, one of Japan's oldest and most sacred Shinto shrines. It's home to stories and legends that have been passed on for thousands of years, and they say the shrine was built by Amaterasu herself, the Shinto god who created the world. Every October, the Shinto gods across Japan gather here to determine the fate of humanity for the coming year, and perhaps hit a couple of sake shots or three. Move on to the Izumo Cultural Heritage Museum to learn about the history and architecture of the Izumo Taisha in temperature-controlled comfort and enjoy the Japanese style garden outside when you’re done. If you think little Buddhist statues with caps and bibs are the cutest things ever, the Tachikue Gorge Natural Park has got you covered with 1,500 of them. We recommend ending your day on a high – 43.65 meters to be precise – at Hinomisaki Lighthouse for a breathtaking view of the sun setting on the Japan sea. Cuisine-wise, be sure to try out the local specialty, fresh Izumo soba served warigo style – three round lacquered boxes of soba stacked on top of each another.