Shimane Prefecture is home to numerous power spots where various myths and histories intertwine. In this article, we have handpicked five power spots in Shimane that are overflowing with spiritual energy.
These include Izumo Taisha, which enshrines Ōkuninushi-no-Ōkami; Miho Shrine, reputed for its auspicious dual pilgrimage; and Susanoo-no-Mikoto’s shrine, dedicated to the deity celebrated in the legend of defeating Yamata no Orochi. The oldest Japanese poem composed by Susanoo is deeply connected with Yaegaki Shrine. In addition, the history of the battle among the Sengoku warlords who fought over the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine is also recorded in the story of the burning and reconstruction of Mononobe Shrine.
1. Izumo Taisha – The Gathering Place of Gods
Izumo Taisha is the symbol of the mythical land of Shimane and one of its most famous power spots. This shrine, which enshrines Ōkuninushi-no-Ōkami, has been cherished as "Taikoku-sama."
According to legend, during the tenth month of the old lunar calendar (when all the gods from across Japan visit Izumo, while other regions are left godless, hence "Kannazuki" elsewhere, and "Kamari-zuki" in Izumo), the power of the gods is especially concentrated.
Ōkuninushi-no-Ōkami, revered as the god of the nation-building as well as of connections and relationships, is deeply loved by the people. It is said that he created a land filled with happiness and livable abundance. Legends even recount that he discussed bonds not only among men and women but also among all the gods, making Izumo Taisha the number one shrine for blessings.
According to the Nihon Shoki, Amaterasu Ōmikami, Japan’s great ancestral deity, ceded the land to him. If you visit Shimane, be sure to pay your respects at Izumo Taisha.
Name: Izumo Taisha
Address: 195 Kizuki Higashi, Oya-cho, Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture
Official/Related Website URL: http://www.izumooyashiro.or.jp/
2. Yaegaki Shrine – A Power Spot Ideal for Praying for Romantic Success
Yaegaki Shrine in Shimane is dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, famed for defeating the Yamata no Orochi, and Inata-hime-no-Mikoto, who escaped the calamity of the serpent. It is said that Susanoo-no-Mikoto, while seeking a place to live with Inata-hime, traveled all the way to the ancient land of Izumo (present-day Yasugi City, Shimane), and composed a waka that has become legendary.
Yaegaki Shrine is reputed to be the place where Inata-hime once resided, and it still features the "Mirror Pond," famous as a love divination site. This shrine is an unmissable power spot in Shimane for those seeking blessings for romantic success.
Name: Yaegaki Shrine
Address: 227 Sasakacho, Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture
3. Susanoo Shrine – Honoring the Hero Who Defeated Yamata no Orochi
Susanoo Shrine, which enshrines Susanoo-no-Mikoto—the deity celebrated for his various aspects, from his youthful and heroic appearance to his more tempestuous side, as well as his cultural side as a poet—offers blessings for household safety, good relationships, and health.
A prominent symbol of the shrine is an ancient cedar tree, said to be around 1,300 years old. This highly venerated power spot is a must-visit in Shimane.
Name: Susanoo Shrine
Address: 730 Sata-cho, Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture
4. Miho Shrine – The Head Shrine of Ebisu, a Renowned Power Spot
Miho Shrine in Shimane is the head shrine among over 3,000 shrines dedicated to Ebisu. Documented in an 8th-century regional chronicle, this ancient shrine venerates Ebisu, the god of prosperity in business, as well as the god of fishing and maritime trade, often associated with musical instruments.
The other enshrined deity, Mihotsuhime-no-Mikoto, is regarded as the goddess of abundant harvests, marital harmony, and safe childbirth.
Legend has it that she descended from Takamagahara carrying rice ears, which were then distributed as food, making Miho Shrine’s name connected to her.
When visited together with Izumo Taisha, Miho Shrine is believed to bring extra blessings as a dual pilgrimage to Ebisu.
Name: Miho Shrine
Address: 608 Mihozeki, Miho-cho, Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture
Official/Related Website URL: http://www.mihojinja.or.jp/
5. Iwami Kuni Ichinomiya Mononobe Shrine – For Those Needing Special Services to Make Worship Possible
Iwami Kuni Ichinomiya Mononobe Shrine, located in Oda City, Shimane Prefecture, is dedicated to Umasimajinomikoto, who is said to have first prayed for the prosperity of the land. Umasimajinomikoto was renowned for his contributions to nation-building and loyalty to Emperor Jimmu, for which he was granted divine swords and treasures.
This shrine, known as Iwami’s Ichinomiya, originally had its sacred mountain in Yaoyama, and its shrine was founded during the era of Emperor Keitai (circa 513 AD). After several cycles of destruction and reconstruction, the current shrine was built in 1856.
The building, constructed in the Kasuga style, is one of Japan’s largest and is celebrated as a deity of both literary and martial pursuits, as well as for its power in ensuring victory. It is also historically significant as the battleground for warlords competing over the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, whose cultural landscape was recognized as a World Heritage Site in 2007.
Name: Iwami Kuni Ichinomiya Mononobe Shrine
Address: 1545 Kawai-cho, Oda City, Shimane Prefecture
Official/Related Website URL: https://www.mononobe-jinja.jp/
◎Summary of Shimane Power Spots
The five power spots of Shimane—such as Izumo Taisha, Susanoo Shrine, and Miho Shrine—are all imbued with tremendous spiritual energy and history. With such an array of places filled with history and romance, it might be hard to choose where to go first. Use these five spots as a guide when planning your trip, and experience the profound mysteries and enduring traditions of the land of myth, Shimane.