The Development of Modern Izumo City
The present-day city of Izumo was created in March 2005 through the merger of the former Izumo City, Hirata City, and the four towns of Taisha, Koryo, Taki, and Sada.
In 2011, the city expanded further by incorporating Hikawa Town, creating the municipality that exists today.
The central urban district developed around Imaichi, an area that flourished as a distribution and commercial center from the Muromachi period onward. Its long history as a trading center helped shape Izumo into an important regional city.
A Landscape Rich in Mountains, Rivers, Lakes, and the Sea
The Fertile Izumo Plain
Izumo City has a remarkably diverse natural landscape. The Sea of Japan lies to the north, while Lake Shinji stretches along the eastern side of the city. The Shimane Peninsula occupies the northern part of the area, and the Chugoku Mountains extend across the south.
Between them lies the fertile Izumo Plain, formed largely by two major rivers flowing from the Chugoku Mountains: the Hii River and the Kando River.
The Hii River flows into Lake Shinji, while the Kando River reaches the Sea of Japan. As a result, Izumo offers an unusual combination of mountains, rivers, plains, lakes, and coastline within one city.
Lake Shinji and Lake Jinzai
In addition to Lake Shinji, the city is also home to Lake Jinzai. These waters support diverse ecosystems and provide beautiful settings for enjoying nature.
Visitors can experience different landscapes throughout the year, from the famous sunsets over Lake Shinji to the rugged coastline of the Sea of Japan, mountain valleys, and forested areas.
A Mild Climate for Exploring Throughout the Year
Izumo has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) under the Köppen climate classification. The annual average temperature is approximately 14.9°C, giving the area a relatively mild climate.
Summers are often hot and humid, with many days reaching temperatures of 30°C or higher. Winters tend to bring cloudy or rainy weather typical of the Sea of Japan coast, although extremely cold conditions are relatively uncommon.
Annual precipitation is approximately 1,675 mm, while annual sunshine totals around 1,697 hours.
Izumo and the World of Japanese Mythology
One of the Most Important Settings in Japanese Mythology
Izumo is one of the most important regions in Japanese mythology. In the Kojiki, Japan’s oldest surviving chronicle, approximately one-third of the mythological stories in its opening section are set in the Izumo region.
Many place names and legendary sites mentioned in the Kojiki, the Nihon Shoki, and the Izumo Fudoki, compiled in the Nara period, remain associated with locations in and around Izumo today.
For travelers interested in Japanese mythology, this makes Izumo a particularly fascinating destination where ancient stories are closely connected with real landscapes, shrines, and historic sites.
The Legends of Susanoo and Ōkuninushi
Susanoo and the Defeat of Yamata-no-Orochi
One of the central figures in Izumo mythology is Susanoo-no-Mikoto, a powerful deity known for his turbulent and heroic character.
According to legend, Susanoo came to Izumo and defeated Yamata-no-Orochi, the enormous serpent with eight heads and eight tails. After defeating the creature, he married Kushinada-hime.
Ōkuninushi and the Building of the Land
A descendant of Susanoo, Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto, became another major figure in Izumo mythology. After overcoming numerous trials, he is said to have developed and established the land together with deities such as Sukunabikona-no-Kami.
Ōkuninushi is still widely worshipped as a deity associated with the development of the land, prosperity, and relationships. Many of the places connected with these legends can still be visited around Izumo today.
The Ancient Izumo Culture
A Powerful Regional Culture in Ancient Japan
Archaeological evidence suggests that ancient Izumo was home to a powerful regional culture. Numerous archaeological sites and burial mounds were constructed around the Izumo Plain from the Yayoi period to the Kofun period.
One distinctive feature is the four-corner protruding burial mound, a unique type of tomb associated particularly with ancient cultures of the San’in and Hokuriku regions.
These burial mounds are considered an important characteristic of ancient Izumo culture and provide evidence of the region’s extensive connections and influence.
The Kojindani and Kamo Iwakura Discoveries
The Kojindani Ruins in Izumo became internationally known after the discovery of 358 bronze swords in 1984. The discovery was one of the most significant archaeological finds in Japan and provided important evidence about the religious and political importance of ancient Izumo.
Nearby Kamo Iwakura Ruins produced a large collection of bronze bells known as dotaku. Together, these discoveries have greatly expanded our understanding of the culture and beliefs of ancient Izumo.
Izumo from the Medieval Period to the Modern Era
The Izumo-Genji Clan
During the Kamakura period, Sasaki Yoshikiyo was appointed military governor of Izumo and Oki following his achievements in the Jōkyū War. His family later became known as the Izumo-Genji.
The clan’s base was in Enya in Kando District, and the Enya clan later served as military governors of Izumo Province.
Commerce and the Izumo Cotton Industry
During the Edo period, much of the region was controlled by the Matsue Domain, while the area around Izumo Taisha held the special status of shrine territory.
During this period, the Izumo Plain became known for the production of Unshu cotton. Hirata in particular developed into an important center for the collection and distribution of cotton.
After the Meiji Restoration, textile industries expanded further, with silk-reeling and spinning factories contributing to the development of modern industry in the region.
A Rich Agricultural and Food Culture
Fertile Farmland in the Izumo Plain
Izumo is also one of Shimane’s important agricultural areas. The fertile Izumo Plain supports the cultivation of a wide range of crops, and the city’s agricultural production accounts for approximately 23% of Shimane Prefecture’s total agricultural output.
Izumo is particularly important for fruit production, accounting for approximately 58% of the prefecture’s fruit production.
Local Fruits and Specialty Products
Local specialties include grapes, Taki figs, Nishihama sweet potatoes, Saijo persimmons, and Shussei ginger. Many of these products have been developed as regional brands and are shipped throughout Japan.
Lake Shinji is also famous for its Yamato freshwater clams, which play an important role in the local food culture.
Izumo Soba and Zenzai
Izumo Soba
Izumo soba is one of the region’s most famous foods and is traditionally counted among Japan’s three major soba traditions.
The buckwheat is ground together with its outer husk using a method known as hiki-gurumi. This gives Izumo soba its distinctive dark color, strong buckwheat aroma, and firm texture.
The Connection Between Izumo and Zenzai
Izumo is also traditionally associated with the origins of zenzai, a popular Japanese sweet made with azuki beans and mochi.
According to tradition, the name derives from Jinzai Mochi, a rice cake dish served during the Kamiari Festival in the tenth month of the traditional lunar calendar. The name is said to have eventually developed into the modern word “zenzai.”
Historic Sites Connected with Japanese Mythology
Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine
Izumo Taisha is the city’s most famous attraction and one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines. It enshrines Ōkuninushi-no-Ōkami, widely associated with good relationships and marriage, and attracts worshippers from throughout Japan.
The main sanctuary is designated a National Treasure and features the distinctive Taisha-zukuri architectural style, one of Japan’s oldest shrine-building traditions.
During the tenth month of the traditional lunar calendar, the Kamiari Festival is held, when the gods of Japan are traditionally believed to gather in Izumo. The surrounding approach and shrine town are also enjoyable to explore, with shops, restaurants, and souvenir stores.
Susa Shrine
Susa Shrine is an ancient shrine dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto. Set in a quiet mountain area, the shrine has a peaceful and mysterious atmosphere that evokes the world of Japanese mythology.
A huge sacred tree stands within the grounds, creating an impressive focal point for visitors.
Hinomisaki Shrine
Hinomisaki Shrine stands on a cape overlooking the Sea of Japan. Its vivid vermilion buildings display the elegant architectural style of the Momoyama period and are designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan.
Izumo Taisha is traditionally associated with protecting the daytime, while Hinomisaki Shrine is often described as a shrine that protects the night, creating a symbolic connection between the two sacred places.
Gakuenji Temple
Gakuenji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located deep in the mountains. It is traditionally said to have been founded during the Heian period and has long been associated with mountain ascetic practices.
In autumn, the temple grounds become surrounded by colorful foliage, making it one of the region’s notable destinations for autumn leaves.
Archaeological Sites and Museums of Ancient Izumo
Kojindani Ruins
The Kojindani Ruins are famous for the discovery of 358 bronze swords in 1984. The scale of the discovery was unprecedented in Japanese archaeology and became important evidence for understanding the power and religious culture of ancient Izumo.
The site is now preserved as a historic park, while a nearby museum provides further information about the artifacts and ancient Izumo.
Nishitani Burial Mounds and Izumo Yayoi-no-Mori
The Nishitani Burial Mounds are a group of large burial mounds dating from the late Yayoi period. Several examples of the distinctive four-corner protruding burial mound can be seen here.
Reconstructed burial mounds and exhibition facilities allow visitors to learn about the burial customs, culture, and political power of ancient Izumo.
Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo
Located close to Izumo Taisha, the Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo explores the history and mythology of ancient Izumo through a wide range of exhibits.
One of its most impressive displays recreates the enormous pillars associated with the ancient main sanctuary of Izumo Taisha, giving visitors a sense of the extraordinary scale of early shrine architecture.
Scenic Natural Attractions
Tachikue Gorge
Tachikue Gorge is a scenic valley along the Kando River, known for its dramatic rock formations. It is designated as both a Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument of Japan.
Tall rock pillars rise along the valley, creating an impressive landscape that changes with the seasons. Autumn is especially beautiful when the surrounding forests turn shades of red, orange, and gold.
Lake Shinji
Lake Shinji is one of Japan’s designated 100 Scenic Views and is particularly famous for its beautiful sunsets.
Walking paths and viewing areas along the shore provide opportunities to enjoy the calm waters and changing colors of the sky. The lake is also famous for its Yamato freshwater clams, an important local specialty.
Hinomisaki and Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse
Hinomisaki lies at the western tip of the Shimane Peninsula, where dramatic views of the Sea of Japan stretch along the coastline.
The nearby Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse is a tall stone lighthouse and one of Japan’s most prominent historic lighthouses. It is designated an Important Cultural Property, and climbing the lighthouse offers expansive views of the Sea of Japan.
Inasa Beach
Inasa Beach stretches along the coast west of Izumo Taisha and is recognized among Japan’s 100 Best Beaches.
In Japanese mythology, it is associated with the story of the transfer of the land and is considered a sacred location. During the Kamiari Festival, the traditional Shin-O-Mukae Ceremony is held here to welcome the gods believed to gather in Izumo.
Historic Streets and Local Cultural Experiences
Kotobuki Kaido
Momen Kaido, or the Cotton Road, preserves the atmosphere of a merchant district that prospered from the Edo period through the Meiji period through the cotton trade.
White-plastered storehouses and traditional merchant houses line the streets, creating an attractive historic atmosphere. Visitors can also find local specialties, cafés, crafts, and other shops while enjoying a leisurely walk through the neighborhood.
Shussei Kiln
Shussei Kiln is a pottery workshop established under the influence of Japan’s Mingei, or folk-craft, movement.
The workshop is known for simple, warm, everyday pottery. Visitors can browse and purchase ceramics while gaining an appreciation for the craft traditions that have developed alongside daily life in the Izumo region.
Shimane Winery
Shimane Winery produces wine using locally grown grapes. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings and learn more about the production process.
The facility also includes a restaurant and souvenir shop, making it a convenient destination for travelers interested in discovering the food and drink culture of Izumo.
Discover the Land of the Gods
Izumo City brings together ancient Japanese mythology, archaeological heritage, beautiful natural landscapes, traditional culture, and a rich food tradition.
A journey centered around Izumo Taisha and the many legendary sites of the region offers travelers a chance to explore stories that have been passed down for more than a thousand years and to see how mythology remains connected with the landscape today.
Beyond its shrines and ancient history, Izumo also offers the beautiful sunsets of Lake Shinji, the dramatic coastline of the Sea of Japan, historic temples, traditional streets, local cuisine, and opportunities to enjoy the region’s natural hot springs.
For anyone interested in the origins of Japanese culture and mythology, Izumo is a destination where the ancient and modern worlds come together. Take time to explore its sacred sites, landscapes, food, and stories, and experience the distinctive character of this historic city in Shimane.