Izumo Taisha (出雲大社) is a grand shrine, considered one of Japans top 3. Located in northern Chugoku, it is an essential stop if you are in the region. It is therefore a hugely popular shrine, but never feels overly crowded.
The folklore behind the shrine says that the gods from all over Japan gather at Izumo Taisha once a year. Many Japanese visit the spot from all over the country to pray for good fortune when the meetings of the gods occur.
Budget travel tips
- The shopping street up to the shrine and as you exit are full of free samples of candy, biscuit and more. Look out for the little sample boxes and enjoy!
- The tourist restaurants are a bit pricey, but there are convenience stores with cheap bentos just off the main shopping streets or before at Izumo-shi station.
How to get there
Best is to get a clearly marked bus from Izumo-shi to Izumo-Taisha-Mae (20 mins, 500 yen). JR passes will cover the trip to Izumo-shi, including the JR San’in-Okayama Area Pass.
Ichibata Electric Railway has trains to the shrine (20 mins, 490 yen), but there are far less frequent (about 1 per hour).
Note that the Ichibata Electric Railway from Izumo-shi to Izumo-Taisha-Mae and buses are not covered by JR passes.
Hostels and cheap hotels
Izumo Royal Hotel
A decent hotel with a good location. Discounts often available, for example on weekdays.
Compare more at Booking.com
Super Cheap Japan 
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