About Nagahama Shrine
Nagahama Shrine is an ancient shrine located in Nishizono-cho, Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture, and is designated as the 14th sacred site of the Izumo Province Shinto-Buddhist Pilgrimage. Revered as the god of rice cultivation, it has a long history as a center of local faith.
Deities and History
Main Deity
The main deity of Nagahama Shrine is Nagahama-no-kami, revered as the god who presides over rice cultivation and agriculture. As a god deeply involved in the agricultural development of the Izumo region, it has attracted the faith of local people since ancient times.
History of the Shrine
The exact founding date is unclear, but it is said to have flourished as a center of rice cultivation faith in the Izumo region since ancient times. As a sacred site of the Izumo Province Shinto-Buddhist Pilgrimage, it is a shrine with a strong history of syncretism between Shinto and Buddhism.
Benefits
Nagahama Shrine is said to bestow the following benefits: ### Abundant Harvest and Agricultural Prosperity
As this shrine enshrines the god of rice cultivation, the primary benefits are abundant harvests and agricultural prosperity. Farmers can still be seen visiting to pray for a bountiful harvest.
Family Safety and Business Prosperity
As the god who presides over food, the foundation of life, the shrine is also worshipped for family safety and business prosperity. Many local business owners visit this shrine to pray for business success.
Matchmaking and Protection from Evil
As befits a shrine in Izumo, it is also believed to offer benefits for matchmaking, attracting visitors seeking good relationships. Prayers for protection from evil are also offered.
Points to Note During Your Visit
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Main Hall
The main hall, with its unique Izumo architectural style, exudes a sense of historical weight. You can pray peacefully in a tranquil atmosphere.
Shrine Grove
The shrine grove surrounding the grounds is filled with ancient trees, creating a solemn atmosphere befitting a sacred place. You can enjoy the changing seasons.
Worship Etiquette
While the basic worship method at shrines in the Izumo region is “two bows, four claps, one bow,” at Nagahama Shrine, the more common “two bows, two claps, one bow” is used.
- Bow before passing through the torii gate
- Purify your body and mind at the water basin
- Bow twice, clap twice, and bow once in front of the main hall
- Bow once again at the torii gate upon leaving
Goshuin (Shrine Seal) and Amulets
You can receive a goshuin (shrine seal) for the 14th temple of the Izumo Province Shinto-Buddhist Pilgrimage. Those on a pilgrimage are advised to bring their own goshuin notebook.
Access Information
Location
Address: 4258 Kami-Nagahama, Nishizono-cho, Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture
Access by Train
- Approximately 15 minutes by car from JR San’in Main Line “Izumo-shi Station”
- Approximately 10 minutes by car from Ichibata Electric Railway “Kawato Station”
Public transportation is limited, so using a taxi or rental car is recommended.
Access by Car
- Approximately 20 minutes from San’in Expressway “Izumo IC”
- Parking available (free)
Located approximately 25 minutes by car from Izumo Taisha Shrine, many visitors combine their visit with a visit to Izumo Taisha.
Visiting Hours
The shrine grounds are generally open for free worship. The shrine office is open from approximately 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it is recommended to confirm in advance.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Izumo Taisha Shrine
Located about 25 minutes away by car, Izumo Taisha Shrine is nationally famous as a shrine for matchmaking. We recommend visiting it along with Nagahama Shrine.
Izumo Province Pilgrimage
Nagahama Shrine is the 14th shrine on the pilgrimage route. There are 20 pilgrimage sites in the Izumo region, and many people undertake this pilgrimage.
Summary
Nagahama Shrine has been revered since ancient times as the center of rice cultivation faith in the Izumo region. It offers various blessings, including abundant harvests, family safety, and matchmaking, and as the 14th shrine on the Izumo Province Pilgrimage, it attracts pilgrims. Located close to Izumo Taisha Shrine, it’s a quiet and peaceful place for worship, and a spot we highly recommend visiting.
