What is the Izumo Taisha-kyo Kagura-den?
The Izumo Taisha-kyo Kagura-den is the central facility of the Izumo Taisha-kyo religious group, located adjacent to the grounds of Izumo Taisha Shrine in Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture. Founded in 1882 by Senge Takatomi, the 80th Kuni-no-Miyatsuko (provincial governor) of Izumo Taisha Shrine, it serves as the headquarters of Izumo Taisha-kyo, where Kagura (sacred dance) performances and various prayers are conducted.
History and Origins of the Kagura-den
Izumo Taisha-kyo was established during the Meiji era as one of the sectarian Shinto groups that worships Izumo Taisha Shrine. The Kagura-den was initially used as the worship hall of Izumo Taisha Shrine, but the current magnificent building was rebuilt in 1981.
The current Kagura-den welcomes many worshippers as a sacred space for Kagura performances, prayers, and Shinto rituals such as weddings. Although it is a separate organization from the main shrine of Izumo Taisha, it plays an important role as a center of worship dedicated to Okuninushi-no-Okami.
Japan’s Largest Shimenawa
Overwhelming Scale
The biggest highlight of the Kagura-den (sacred dance hall) is the largest shimenawa (sacred rope) in Japan, displayed in front of the worship hall. Its scale is breathtaking:
- Length: 13.6 meters
- Maximum Circumference: 9 meters
- Weight: 5.2 tons
Its immense size is striking even when compared to the shimenawa at the main shrine of Izumo Taisha (approximately 6.5m long, approximately 1.5t in weight).
Production and Replacement
This large shimenawa is produced by approximately 1,000 residents of Iinan Town. It is made using traditional techniques of weaving multiple layers of rice straw and is replaced every 7-8 years. Recently, in 2021 (Reiwa 3), it was newly made and received much media attention.
Points to Note During Your Visit
Pay attention to the direction of the shimenawa (sacred rope). Unlike most shrines, the right side is thicker and the left side is thinner. This is a unique style of the Izumo region, said to be due to the emphasis on the arrangement from the perspective of the gods.
Points to Note When Visiting
Etiquette for Visiting
At the Kagura-den (Sacred Dance Hall) of Izumo Taisha Shrine, the formal etiquette is “two bows, four claps, one bow”, just like at the main shrine of Izumo Taisha:
- Two bows: Bow deeply twice
- Four claps: Clap your hands four times (most shrines use two claps)
- One bow: Bow deeply once at the end
Order of Visiting
When visiting Izumo Taisha, the following order of visiting is recommended:
- Visit the main shrine of Izumo Taisha
- Visit the subsidiary shrines within the grounds
- Visit the Kagura-den
The Kagura-den is located on the west side of the grounds, about a 3-minute walk from the main shrine.
Regarding Photography
Photography of the large shimenawa (sacred rope) at the Kagura-den is permitted, and many visitors take commemorative photos. However, please refrain from taking photos during prayers and religious ceremonies, and observe in silence. Flash photography is prohibited.
Benefits and Faith
Main Benefits
At the Izumo Taisha Kagura Hall, it is believed that the following benefits can be bestowed through the divine virtues of Okuninushi-no-Okami:
- Matchmaking: Not only romantic relationships, but also good fortune in work, friendships, and various other areas.
- Family Safety: Health and peaceful living for the family.
- Business Prosperity: Development of business and success in trade.
- Protection from Misfortune and Good Fortune: Warding off misfortune and opening up good fortune.
- Healing from Illness: Recovery of physical and mental health.
Prayers and Rituals
Various prayers are performed daily at the Kagura Hall:
- Personal Prayers: Matchmaking, family safety, business prosperity, etc. (Reservations required)
- Wedding Ceremonies: Traditional Shinto wedding ceremonies.
- Kagura Performance: Izumo Kagura is performed regularly.
If you wish to request prayers, please contact the Izumo Taisha Headquarters (TEL: We recommend contacting 0853-53-2112.
Access Information
Location
Address: 195 Kitzuki-Higashi, Taisha-cho, Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture 699-0711
Phone: 0853-53-2112 (Izumo Taisha Headquarters)
Access by Train
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Ichibata Railway Izumo Taisha-mae Station
- Approximately 25 minutes by Ichibata Bus bound for “Izumo Taisha” from JR Izumo-shi Station, then approximately 3 minutes on foot from the last stop
Access by Car
- Approximately 15 minutes from the San’in Expressway “Izumo IC”
- Parking: Free parking is available for visitors to Izumo Taisha Shrine
- Large Parking Lot (385 spaces)
- Second Parking Lot (approximately 100 spaces)
Visiting Hours
- Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM (may vary depending on the season)
- Prayer Reception: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Closed Days: None (Open all year round)
Nearby Attractions
Izumo Taisha Main Shrine
3-minute walk from Kagura-den (Sacred Dance Hall). The main shrine, designated a National Treasure, preserves the Taisha-zukuri style, the oldest style of shrine architecture in Japan.
Ancient Izumo History Museum
5-minute walk from Kagura-den. Exhibits the history of Izumo Taisha and the actual Uzubashira (giant pillar) discovered in 2000. Experience the magnificent romance of ancient Izumo.
Inasa Beach
Approximately 5-minute drive from Kagura-den. A sacred beach that was the setting for the myth of the transfer of the land. On the 10th day of the 10th month of the lunar calendar, the “Kami-mukae-sai” (Gods Welcoming Festival) is held to welcome the eight million gods of Japan.
Points to Note When Visiting
- The Kagura-den (Sacred Dance Hall) is a separate organization from the main shrine of Izumo Taisha, but it is a sacred place where the same deity, Okuninushi-no-Okami, is enshrined.
- Throwing coins at the large shimenawa (sacred rope) is prohibited (as it accelerates its deterioration).
- Please remain quiet during religious ceremonies and follow instructions.
- During winter (November to February), there is a possibility of snow and ice, so please be careful of your footing.
Summary
The Izumo Taisha Kagura-den is an important spot for visitors to Izumo Taisha, boasting an overwhelming presence as one of Japan’s largest shimenawa and serving as a sacred space where kagura (sacred dance) and prayers are performed. Visiting it in conjunction with a visit to the main shrine will allow you to experience the faith in the gods of Izumo more deeply. Please visit to receive various blessings, including those for matchmaking.
