About Izumo Daijingu Shrine
Izumo Daijingu Shrine is the Ichinomiya (first-ranked shrine) of Tanba Province, located in Kameoka City, Kyoto Prefecture. According to shrine tradition, it was founded before 709 AD (Wado 2), and is known as an ancient shrine with a history of over 1300 years.
The main deities enshrined are Okuninushi-no-Mikoto and Mihotsuhime-no-Mikoto, and because it enshrines the same deities as Izumo Taisha Shrine, it is also called “Moto-Izumo” (Original Izumo).
Main Benefits
Matchmaking and Fulfillment of Good Relationships
The most famous benefit of Izumo Daijingu Shrine is matchmaking. Okuninushi-no-Mikoto is known as the god of matchmaking, and the “Meoto-iwa” (Married Couple Rocks) in the back of the shrine grounds are considered a powerful spot for matchmaking.
- Married Couple Rocks: Two rocks standing side-by-side as if embracing each other, this sacred site is a place for prayers for romantic fulfillment and marital harmony.
- Matchmaking Charm: A special charm given out in front of the Married Couple Rocks is popular.
Other Benefits
- Longevity and Immortality: The spring water on the shrine grounds, “Manai no Mizu,” is revered as sacred water for eternal youth and longevity.
- Increased Financial Fortune: Okuninushi-no-Mikoto is also known as a god of fortune, making it a popular place for prayers for business prosperity.
- Protection from Evil and Good Fortune: As the Ichinomiya (first-ranked shrine), it serves as a guardian deity of the region.
Points to Note When Visiting
1. Stone Torii Gate
A imposing stone torii gate stands at the entrance to the shrine grounds. This gate has a dignified, historical feel and welcomes visitors as the entrance to the sacred area.
2. Main Hall and Worship Hall
The main hall is built in the three-bay nagare-zukuri architectural style, retaining the characteristics of shrine architecture in the Tanba region. First, offer your prayers at the main shrine using the proper etiquette of two bows, two claps, and one bow.
3. Meoto-iwa (Married Couple Rocks)
This is the sacred rock formation located in the mountains beyond the main shrine.
- It’s about a 10-minute walk up the mountain path from the main shrine.
- It’s called “Meoto-iwa” (Married Couple Rocks) because of the way the two rocks stand side by side.
- This is a very important spot, visited by many worshippers praying for a successful marriage.
- Offer your prayers quietly in front of the rocks.
4. Manai no Mizu (Manai Water)
This is the sacred water that springs forth within the shrine grounds, and you are free to take some home.
- Bringing your own water bottle is recommended
- Pure, drinkable spring water
- Revered since ancient times as a sacred water for eternal youth and longevity
Access Information
Access by Train and Bus
- Get off at JR Sagano Line “Kameoka Station”
- Take the Keihan Kyoto Kotsu bus bound for “Izumo Daijingu-mae” from the north exit of Kameoka Station (approx. 15 minutes)
- Get off at the “Izumo Daijingu-mae” bus stop and it’s a short walk.
Access by Car
- Approximately 10 minutes from the Kyoto Jukan Expressway “Chiyogawa IC”
- Free parking available (approx. 50 cars)
Visiting Hours
- Open for worship (Shrine office is open from 9:00 to 17:00)
- Visiting the mountain path to Meotoiwa (Married Couple Rocks) is recommended during daylight hours.
Annual Events
- January 1st: New Year’s Day Festival
- April 18th: Annual Festival (Spring Grand Festival)
- October 21st: Autumn Grand Festival
- 1st and 15th of every month: Monthly Festival
Points to Note When Visiting
- Since you will be climbing a mountain path to reach the Meoto-iwa (Husband and Wife Rocks), it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes for your visit.
- If you wish to take home water from Manai, please bring a container.
- The shrine grounds are a sacred place, so please pray quietly.
- Photography is permitted, but please be considerate of other visitors.
