Morning Walk Through the Stone-Paved Approach to Izumo Taisha in the Temple Town
About this spot
This approximately 700-meter approach extends from the grand torii gate at Ukahashi to Seitorome, thriving as the temple-town gate of Izumo Taisha. The grand torii gate, standing approximately 23 meters tall, boasts one of Japan's largest scales. Beyond it lies a street paved in stone style, lined with Izumo soba shops, zenzai establishments, souvenir stores, and miscellaneous goods shops. Midway along the street stands the retro Ichihata Electric Railway Izumo Taisha-mae Station (一畑電車・出雲大社前駅), distinguished by its beautiful stained-glass station building—architectural sightseeing alone makes this area enjoyable. Early morning brings few visitors, making a leisurely stroll past shops beginning their opening preparations particularly special. First, walk back and forth along the street to scout shops of interest, then plan your day's food-tasting strategy.
Tips
Nearby tourist parking lots, such as Shinmon Street Traffic Square, are available. Parking is spacious during the 9 o'clock hour, but it fills from late morning onward, so arriving early is recommended. The street slopes gently upward, so comfortable walking shoes are advised.
Best time to visit
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. The early morning before or right after opening has few people, allowing for a leisurely walk along the stone-paved approach.
Access & map
〒699-0711 Shimane Prefecture, Izumo City, Taisha Town, Kizuki-Minami, Shinmon Street (島根県出雲市大社町杵築南 神門通り)
Model course featuring this spot

Izumo: A Day of Culinary Walks Celebrating Wariko Soba and Zenzai at the Temple Town Gate
Shimane
Explore features & model courses
Like this spot? Sign up free to save it to your own booklet as a plan or a want-to-go.