About Mankusen Shrine
Mankusen Shrine is a shrine located in Hikawa-cho, Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture. It is known as the place where the gods who gathered in Izumo from all over Japan during the “Kamiari-zuki” (month of the gods) in the tenth month of the lunar calendar made their final stop and held a divine council.
History and Origins of the Shrine
The name Mankusen Shrine is said to originate from the fact that after the eight million gods who gathered from all over Japan during the Kamiari-zuki completed their rituals at Izumo Taisha, they held their final celebratory feast at this location, repeatedly toasting to their farewells. This was called “Yorozu no Sakazuki” (ten thousand cups), which later transformed into “Mankusen” (ten thousand).
The enshrined deity is Kushimikenu no Mikoto, a child deity of Okuninushi no Okami, the enshrined deity of Izumo Taisha. As the god who presides over food, this deity is also known for granting blessings of abundant harvests and business prosperity.
The Meaning of Kamiari-zuki and the Divine Council
The tenth month of the lunar calendar is generally called “Kannazuki” (month without gods) throughout Japan, but in the Izumo region, it is called “Kamiari-zuki” (month with gods). This is because gods from all over Japan gather in Izumo to hold a council (Kamiari) regarding people’s marriages and various other matters.
Mankusen Shrine is the stage for the “Karasade Shinto ritual,” where the gods stop by on the last day of Kamiari-zuki (the 26th day of the tenth month of the lunar calendar). The gods are said to travel in the order of Izumo Taisha → Sata Shrine → Mankusen Shrine, and after the final ritual is performed at Mankusen Shrine, they return to their respective regions.
Points to Note When Visiting
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Main Hall and Worship Hall
The main hall is built in a style similar to the “Taisha-zukuri” style unique to the Izumo region, creating a solemn atmosphere. A sacred rope (shimenawa) stretches in front of the main hall, creating a sacred atmosphere.
Tatezuna (Standing Sand)
Within the shrine grounds, there is a “Tatezuna” (standing sand) to welcome the gods. This is a sacred object that serves as a vessel for the gods, and plays a particularly important role during the month of the gods’ gathering.
Sacred Tree
Within the shrine grounds stands a large tree said to be several hundred years old, and it is a popular power spot for worshippers.
Proper Worship Etiquette
In shrines in the Izumo region, the basic worship method is “two bows, four claps, one bow.” Please worship at Mankyusen Shrine using the same etiquette.
- Bow before passing through the torii gate.
- Purify your body and mind at the water basin.
- Bow twice, clap four times, and bow once in front of the main hall.
- If there are subsidiary shrines, pray to them similarly.
- Bow once again at the torii gate on your way out.
Recommended time to visit
Kamiari-zuki (October in the lunar calendar)
The most important time is around the 26th of the 10th month of the lunar calendar, the day of the “Kami-tachi-de Shinto ritual.” The date changes every year, so it is recommended to check in advance. During this time, special rituals are performed, and the shrine is enveloped in a special atmosphere where you can feel the presence of the gods.
Annual Grand Festival
The annual grand festival is held every year from late October to early November, and is bustling with local people.
For those who want to visit quietly
Weekday mornings are less crowded, allowing for a peaceful visit. Especially early mornings offer a refreshing atmosphere and a sacred feel.
Benefits
Mankyusen Shrine is said to offer the following benefits: ## Matchmaking and Fulfillment of Good Relationships
As the final destination where the gods hold a divine council to decide on people’s relationships during the month of Kamiari (the gathering of the gods), this shrine is particularly famous for its blessings in matchmaking. It is believed to grant blessings not only for romantic relationships, but also for business relationships, friendships, and all kinds of good relationships.
Fulfillment of All Wishes
As the final gathering place for the gods, it is believed that various wishes will be heard and granted.
Abundant Harvest and Business Prosperity
Since the enshrined deity, Kushimikenu-no-Mikoto, is the god of food, it is deeply revered by those involved in agriculture and the food and beverage industry, and is believed to grant blessings for business prosperity and success.
Family Safety and Protection from Evil
As a place where one can receive the protection of the gods, many worshippers visit to pray for the safety of their families and protection from evil.
Access Information
Location
Address: 258 Heikawa, Hikawa-cho, Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture 699-0631
Access by Train
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR San’in Main Line “Shohara Station”
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from JR San’in Main Line “Naoe Station”
- Approximately 10 minutes by taxi from Ichibata Electric Railway “Unshu Hirata Station”
It is a bit of a distance from Izumo City Station and Izumo Taisha Shrine, so using a rental car or taxi is convenient.
Access by Car
- Approximately 5 minutes from San’in Expressway “Hikawa IC”
- Approximately 15 minutes from Izumo Enmusubi Airport
- Approximately 20 minutes from Izumo Taisha Shrine
- Approximately 15 minutes from JR Izumo City Station
Parking
There is free parking on the temple grounds (approximately 10 regular cars). During special periods such as the month of the gods’ gathering, it may be crowded, so we recommend visiting with plenty of time to spare.
Visiting Hours and Admission Fee
- Visiting Hours: Open all day (Shrine office is open from 9:00 to 17:00)
- Admission Fee: Free
- Goshuin (Shrine Seal): Available at the shrine office (advance contact is recommended as staff may be absent)
Nearby Tourist Spots
Izumo Taisha Shrine (approx. 20 minutes by car)
The renowned head shrine for matchmaking. Visiting both Izumo Taisha and Mankusen Shrine allows you to experience the deeper world of Izumo mythology.
Sata Shrine (approx. 25 minutes by car)
A shrine where the gods stop by before Mankusen Shrine during the rituals of the month of the gods’ gathering. A highly prestigious shrine as the second-ranked shrine of Izumo Province.
Kojindani Ruins (approx. 10 minutes by car)
A national treasure-class ruin where 358 bronze swords were unearthed. This is an important historical site that tells the story of the prosperity of ancient Izumo.
Tachikue Gorge (approximately 20 minutes by car)
A scenic spot known as the “Yabakei of San’in.” Enjoy the beauty of the gorge with its series of strangely shaped rocks.
Points to note when visiting
- As this is a quiet shrine located in a residential area, please visit quietly and respectfully.
- The shrine office may be unattended, so if you wish to receive a Goshuin (shrine stamp), it is recommended to call ahead to confirm.
- During the Kannazuki (month of the gods) ritual period, please observe proper etiquette as it is a religious event for local residents.
- The shrine grounds are not large, so please visit with consideration for others.
Summary
Mankyusen Shrine is not as well-known as Izumo Taisha, but it is a historically significant shrine that plays an important role in the Kannazuki ritual. As the place where gods from all over Japan make their final stop, it is a power spot known to those in the know as a place where one can feel a special spiritual presence.
When you visit Izumo, why not take a trip to Mankusen Shrine in addition to Izumo Taisha Shrine and enjoy following in the footsteps of the gods? If you pray in the tranquil grounds with a calm heart, you will surely be blessed with good fortune.
