About Susa Shrine
Susa Shrine (Susa Jinja) is an ancient shrine located in Susa, Sada-cho, Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture. Also known as Susa Omiya, it is the only shrine in Japan dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto as its principal deity.
While the exact founding date is unknown, it is a historical shrine mentioned in the *Izumo no Kuni Fudoki* (733 AD), and is believed to have a history of at least 1300 years.
Why it’s called Japan’s No. 1 Power Spot
In 2012, a popular fortune teller introduced it as “Japan’s No. 1 power spot,” which led to a surge of visitors from all over the country. The tranquil atmosphere within the shrine grounds and the mystical aura created by the sacred cedar tree, over 1300 years old, attract many people.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
1300-Year-Old Cedar (Sacred Tree)
Standing at the back of the shrine grounds is a 1300-year-old cedar tree, a symbol of Susa Shrine. This giant tree, with a trunk circumference of approximately 6 meters and a height of approximately 24 meters, is designated a natural monument of Shimane Prefecture. The powerful trunk rising from its base and the branches reaching towards the sky are breathtaking, and many visitors say they feel a strong energy just standing before it.
Main Hall and Worship Hall
The main hall is a mid-Edo period building, preserving the Taisha-zukuri style unique to the Izumo region. The worship hall was rebuilt during the Meiji era, possessing a simple yet dignified appearance.
Shionoi (Tidal Well)
A sacred spring said to have been used by Susanoo-no-Mikoto to purify the land. Pure water still flows from it today, and it has been revered as a sacred place since ancient times.
Benefits and Divine Virtues
Susanoo Shrine is believed to offer the following benefits:
- Protection from Evil and Disaster: Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the god who defeated Yamata-no-Orochi, is believed to have strong power to ward off disaster.
- Matchmaking: Due to the myth of his marriage to Kushinada-hime, there is a belief in the fulfillment of good relationships.
- Good Fortune and Prosperity: As Japan’s number one power spot, many worshippers visit to pray for improved luck.
- Health and Longevity: Some people visit to pray for longevity, inspired by the 1300-year-old cedar tree.
- Business Prosperity and Success: People pray to the strength of Susanoo, who transformed from a fierce god to a god of nation-building.
Points for Worship
Order of Worship
- Bow before passing through the torii gate: As a courtesy before entering the sacred area.
- Purify yourself at the water basin: Right hand → Left hand → Mouth → Left hand → Handle of the ladle
- Worship at the main hall: Follow the ritual of two bows, two claps, and one bow.
- View the sacred cedar tree: Proceed to the back of the main hall and quietly put your hands together in front of the cedar tree.
- Visit the Shionoi spring: If time permits, also visit the sacred spring within the temple grounds.
Points to note when visiting
- Please refrain from directly touching the sacred cedar tree (for its protection).
- Please worship quietly within the temple grounds and respect the sacred atmosphere.
- Photography is permitted, but please be considerate of other visitors.
- As it is located in a mountainous area, it is advisable to bring insect repellent even in summer.
Recommended time to visit
- Season of fresh greenery (May): The temple grounds are beautifully green and filled with refreshing air.
- Autumn foliage season (November): The surrounding mountains change color, enhancing the mystical atmosphere.
- Annual Festival (April 18th): A grand annual festival where you can witness traditional Shinto rituals.
Access Information
Location
730 Susa, Sada-cho, Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture 693-0503
Access by Train and Bus
- From JR Izumo City Station: Approximately 50 minutes by Ichibata Bus bound for “Susa,” get off at “Susa” bus stop, 3-minute walk.
- Due to the limited number of buses, checking the timetable in advance is essential.
Access by Car
- From Izumo IC on the San’in Expressway: Approximately 40 minutes via National Route 9 and Prefectural Route 39.
- From Matsue: Approximately 50 minutes via National Route 431 and Prefectural Route 39.
- Free Parking Available: Approximately 30 spaces for regular cars.
Parking Information
Free parking is available near the shrine entrance. During holidays and tourist seasons, it can get crowded, so visiting early in the morning is recommended.
Basic Information
- Visiting Hours: Grounds are freely accessible (Shrine office is generally open from 9:00 to 17:00)
- Admission Fee: Free
- Goshuin (Shrine Stamp): Available (reception at the shrine office)
- Amulets and Talismans: Various items available
- Inquiries: Susa Shrine Office 0853-84-0605
Nearby Tourist Spots
When visiting Susa Shrine, you can also visit the following spots:
- Tachikue Gorge: Approximately 15 minutes by car. A scenic spot with a series of strangely shaped rocks.
- Wanibuchi Temple: Approximately 30 minutes by car. An ancient temple known for its beautiful autumn foliage.
- Izumo Taisha Shrine: Approximately 40 minutes by car. A Grand Shrine Representing Izumo
Susa Shrine is a mystical ancient shrine nestled quietly in the mountainous region of Izumo. Why not spend some special time away from everyday life in its grounds, watched over by a 1300-year-old cedar tree?
