Taisha-zukuri: One of Japan’s Oldest Shrine Styles
A Distinctive Gabled Entrance
The Main Sanctuary follows the architectural form known as kirizuma-tsuma-iri. In this style, the entrance is located on the gabled end of the building rather than along the long side, with a staircase positioned near the center of the front facade.
The design preserves characteristics reminiscent of ancient raised-floor storehouses and early palace architecture, making the building an important example of Japan’s early architectural traditions.
The Nine Great Pillars
Inside the Main Sanctuary, nine enormous pillars are arranged in a three-by-three grid. At the center is the Shin-no-Mihashira, or central sacred pillar, one of the most important structural elements of the building.
This enormous pillar measures more than one meter in diameter and can be regarded as one of the symbolic elements of the sanctuary.
Additional massive pillars known as Uzu-bashira extend upward toward the ridge at the central points of the building’s north and south sides. Together, these structural elements contribute to the stability of the sanctuary and demonstrate the sophistication of ancient Japanese building traditions.
A Magnificent Cypress-Bark Roof
Traditional Hiwada-buki Roofing
The roof of the Main Sanctuary is covered using the traditional hiwada-buki technique, in which thin layers of cypress bark are carefully overlapped to create a durable and distinctive roof.
The cypress bark used here is longer than that used in many other examples of the technique. Layer after layer is carefully applied, creating a roof that can reach approximately 20 centimeters in thickness. At the eaves, the accumulated layers extend approximately 60 to 90 centimeters, giving the roof an exceptionally substantial appearance.
During the Heisei Grand Renewal in 2013, the roof underwent major restoration and was re-covered with new cypress bark.
Above the roof are enormous chigi, the distinctive forked finials characteristic of traditional Shinto architecture. The chigi here measure more than 7 meters long. The roof is also decorated with cylindrical katsuogi covered in copper. Together, these features give the Main Sanctuary its unmistakable silhouette and imposing presence.
The Mystery of the Deity Facing West
An Unusual Orientation in Japanese Shrine Architecture
Inside the Main Sanctuary, the sacred seat of Okuninushi-no-Okami faces west. This is an unusual arrangement because deities at many Japanese shrines are traditionally positioned facing south.
There are several theories about why Okuninushi faces west at Izumo Taisha. One interpretation connects the orientation with Mount Yakumo behind the shrine and with Susanoo-no-Mikoto, who is enshrined at Soga-no-Yashiro. Another interpretation focuses on the architectural structure of the raised-floor building and suggests that the most honored position naturally faces west.
The sanctuary is also associated with other important deities from Japanese mythology. In the northwestern area are the Mi-aeza Goshin, five divine figures traditionally regarded as among the first gods to appear at the beginning of creation.
The Mystical Painting of Eight Clouds
A Symbol of Izumo’s Ancient Name and Mythology
The ceiling of the Main Sanctuary features a vivid painting known as the Painting of Eight Clouds. Swirling clouds spread across the ceiling in a dramatic composition.
The clouds are traditionally associated with the phrase “Yakumo tatsu Izumo”, meaning “Izumo, where eight clouds rise,” an expression closely connected with the ancient name and mythology of the region.
Within the sacred interior, the fantastical clouds can also be interpreted as an artistic representation of the world inhabited by the gods. Although visitors cannot freely enter the Main Sanctuary, the tradition surrounding this artwork adds another layer of mystery to the building.
The Ancient Izumo Taisha: A Legendary Giant Sanctuary
The Mystery of a 48-Meter-High Shrine
The present Main Sanctuary is already remarkably large, but traditional accounts suggest that the ancient sanctuary may once have been much larger.
The Edo-period scholar Norinaga Motoori recorded accounts in his work Tamakatsuma stating that an earlier sanctuary may have reached approximately 48 meters high. Some traditions even describe a divine-age sanctuary reaching as high as 96 meters.
If the 48-meter tradition reflects the actual scale of an ancient structure, it would have stood taller than the Great Buddha Hall of Todaiji Temple of that era. The possibility that Izumo once possessed one of ancient Japan’s largest wooden structures continues to attract considerable interest.
The Discovery of the Uzu-bashira Pillars
In 2000, archaeological excavations within the shrine grounds uncovered enormous structural remains known as Uzu-bashira.
Each pillar consisted of three large timbers bound together, creating a structure approximately 1.4 meters in diameter. The discovery provided important archaeological evidence related to traditional accounts of an enormous ancient sanctuary.
The discovery brought renewed attention to the theory of an ancient giant Izumo Taisha. Today, visitors can see excavated pillar remains and reconstruction models at the Shinpo-den exhibition facility, where they can imagine the extraordinary scale of the ancient shrine.
Important Cultural Properties Protecting the Main Sanctuary
Yatsuashimon Gate
At the top of the stone steps in front of the Main Sanctuary stands the beautiful Yatsuashimon Gate. Built in 1667, the gate features intricate decorative carvings inspired by flowers, birds, landscapes, and the changing seasons.
Ordinary visitors are generally not permitted to enter beyond this gate. However, parts of the area may occasionally be opened to the public during special periods, such as the New Year season.
Romon Gate
South of Yatsuashimon stands the impressive Romon Gate, a magnificent two-story gate featuring elaborate bracket structures and a richly decorated architectural design.
The gate contributes to the solemn and imposing atmosphere of the central shrine complex.
Bronze Torii Gate
In front of the Worship Hall stands a bronze torii gate, regarded as one of the oldest surviving bronze torii gates in Japan.
It was donated by Mori Tsunahiro in 1666. Its dark, substantial form provides a striking contrast with the surrounding wooden buildings.
Tamagaki and Mizugaki Fences
The Main Sanctuary is protected by three layers of sacred fences known as the Tamagaki, Mizugaki, and Aragaki.
These fences serve an important religious purpose by marking the boundary between the sacred realm of the deity and the ordinary human world. They also help preserve the secluded atmosphere surrounding the Main Sanctuary.
Highlights Around the Main Sanctuary
Soga-no-Yashiro and Mount Yakumo
Directly behind the Main Sanctuary, at the foot of Mount Yakumo, stands Soga-no-Yashiro. The shrine is dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the legendary deity famous for defeating the eight-headed serpent Yamata-no-Orochi.
Behind the shrine, visitors can see and touch exposed rock from Mount Yakumo, an area traditionally regarded as sacred and off-limits to general entry. The combination of the ancient shrine, mountain, and exposed rock creates an especially mysterious atmosphere.
Nijukusha, the Nineteen Shrines
Long, narrow buildings known as the Nijukusha, or Nineteen Shrines, stand to the east and west of the Main Sanctuary. They are traditionally believed to serve as lodgings for the many deities who gather in Izumo during Kamiarizuki, the “Month When the Gods Are Present.”
During the Kamiari Festival, the doors are opened, and according to tradition, deities from throughout Japan stay here. The Nineteen Shrines provide a fascinating glimpse into the distinctive religious traditions of Izumo.
Kaguraden and the Giant Shimenawa
To the west of the Main Sanctuary stands the Kaguraden, famous for the enormous shimenawa sacred rope hanging from its facade.
The rope measures approximately 13 meters long and weighs about 5.2 tons, making it one of the largest shimenawa in Japan. It has become one of the most recognizable symbols associated with Izumo Taisha.
Kaguraden is also used for weddings and Shinto ceremonies, allowing visitors to experience the distinctive ceremonial atmosphere of Izumo.
A Special Place Where Mythology and History Meet
The Main Sanctuary of Izumo Taisha is much more than an important historic building. It stands at the heart of a sacred landscape deeply connected with Japanese mythology and with centuries of prayer and worship.
Its enormous scale, sophisticated traditional architecture, distinctive structural design, mysterious orientation, and legends of an even greater ancient sanctuary all contribute to its extraordinary character.
When visiting Izumo Taisha, take time to appreciate the details visible from the permitted areas, including the massive roof, chigi, katsuogi, gates, sacred fences, and surrounding buildings. Each feature reflects traditions that have been preserved across generations.
By exploring the Main Sanctuary and its surroundings, travelers can gain a deeper appreciation of the spiritual traditions, architectural heritage, and mythology of ancient Japan, all within one of the country’s most remarkable sacred landscapes.