Ise Jingu Naiku (Inner Shrine)
Uji, Ise, Mie Prefecture, Japan Shinto
Japan’s most sacred Shinto sanctuary, dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami and central to the Ise pilgrimage tradition.
Shinto Grand ShrineShinto
Izumo Taisha
出雲大社 · Izumo Oyashiro · Izumo Grand Shrine
One of Japan’s oldest and most important Shinto shrines, associated with Okuninushi and traditions of divine gathering and matchmaking.
Sacred Place Overview
About Izumo Taisha
Identity, documented context and sacred significance.
Izumo Taisha in Shimane is a nationally significant Shinto shrine dedicated to Okuninushi-no-Okami. It is famous for monumental sacred ropes, ancient mythic associations and the Kamiari festival season.
Sacred Place at a Glance
A concise view of the place, tradition, location and heritage details available for this Sacred Place.
Place TypeShinto Grand Shrine
Religious TraditionShinto
LocationTaisha-cho Kizukihigashi, Izumo, Shimane Prefecture, Japan
CountryJapan
ArchitectureTaisha-zukuri
HeritageMain sanctuary designated National Treasure of Japan
Governing BodyIzumo Taisha
Faith, Tradition & Sacred Association
Religious tradition, dedication and sacred associations connected with this place.
Religious TraditionShinto
History & Sacred Tradition
Documented history, sacred narrative and editorial synthesis are kept visibly separate.
Historical Record
The shrine is mentioned in Japan’s early mytho-historical texts, including the Kojiki. The current main sanctuary was completed in 1744.
Sacred Tradition
Tradition holds that deities from across Japan gather at Izumo during the tenth lunar month for divine deliberations and en-musubi. This is presented as sacred tradition rather than verified historical fact.
Editorial Context
Significance: A major national pilgrimage shrine and one of the central sacred places of Japanese mythology.
Architecture & Sacred Complex
Taisha-zukuri · Main sanctuary designated National Treasure of Japan
Monumental traditional shrine architecture; the current main sanctuary dates from the 18th century.
Worship & Practices
Documented worship, observances and practices where available.
Shinto prayer|en-musubi prayers|offerings
Entry & Visitor Rules
Practical access information and visitor guidance for this Sacred Place.
Entry / Accessfree
How to Reach
Road, rail, air and local-access information where documented.
Access overview
Travel tips: Respect the shrine’s distinctive prayer custom of two bows, four claps, one bow|Check festival dates before travel
Best Time to Visit
Crowds: Especially busy during Kamiari season and New Year.
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Information Status & Sources
Information Status
- Status
- Source Confirmed
- Last checked
- September 23, 2026
- Primary source
- JNTO