Inasa Beach (稲佐の浜)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A white sandy coast spreading about 15 minutes' walk west of Izumo Taisha. This is the legendary stage where Okuninushi-no-Mikoto negotiated the transfer of lands with the divine messenger. The solitary rock formation on Benten Island (弁天島) in the shallows, crowned with a small shrine, creates an iconic landscape. The beach is also revered as a sacred place where the eight million kami of the land are welcomed each year, and a solemn air pervades the sands. There is a popular tradition of collecting sand from this beach to present at the Soga Shrine (素鵞社) at Izumo Taisha, and in return, taking blessed sand from the shrine back home. A beach walk listening to the rhythm of the waves is a special moment to linger in the afterglow of your shrine visit.

Tips

About 15 minutes' walk from Izumo Taisha following the Kami-welcoming Path, or about 5 minutes by car; free parking is available near the beach. Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for sandy terrain. When offering sand to the Soga Shrine, the proper sequence is to first collect sand from the beach, then exchange it with the shrine's purifying sand.

Best time to visit

Plan for about 60 minutes. Afternoon's bright light makes Benten Island stand out sharply, and the beach stroll feels refreshing.

Access & map

〒699-0702 Shimane Prefecture, Izumo City, Taisha-cho, Kizuki-Kita