Izumo Taisha: The Shrine of Mythology and Ancient Museum - A Pilgrimage for Fortunate Bonds

A classic full-day course that lets you savor the mythical land of Izumo centered around Izumo Taisha (出雲大社), famed as the shrine of the matchmaking deity. Pay your respects at the inner sanctuary using the prescribed ritual of two bows, four claps, and one bow, and be astounded by one of Japan's largest sacred ropes in the Music Hall. At the adjacent Museum of Ancient Izumo History, immerse yourself in the romance of ancient Izumo with a spectacular display of National Treasure bronze swords lined up in rows. Lunch is Izumo's celebrated wariko soba at a soba house near the temple gates. In the afternoon, stroll along the white sandy beach of Inasa (稲佐の浜), the mythological stage of the Kuniyuzuri, while gazing at Benten Island, then finish with a moment of respite in the Izumo-style garden and tea room of the Izumo Culture Transmission Hall. A well-trodden, reliable pilgrimage for fortunate bonds that guides you safely through Izumo, even if it's your first visit.