A Complete Guide to Izumo, a City Blessed by Japanese Mythology

Hey everyone, when you come to Japan, you must visit Izumo, a city full of mythological wonders. It's the legendary home of the gods! Here's a super detailed travel guide to Izumo 📖 🚗Transportation Guide ✈️Airplane: Fly to Hiroshima or Okayama, then transfer to the JR limited express train to Izumo. The whole journey takes 2–4 hrs. 🚄Train: From Osaka, Kyoto, and other locations, take the JR Sanin Main Line to Izumo Station. 🏞Attraction Recommendations ⛩️[Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine]: One of Japan's oldest shrines, dedicated to Okuninushi-no-okami, it's said to be incredibly effective for finding love. The world's largest *shimenawa* (sacred rope) is a must-see photo op! The rabbit statues at the shrine are also adorable; don't forget to check them out 🐇 🏞[Adachi Museum of Art]: Awarded Japan's most beautiful garden for 20 consecutive years, the garden's picturesque scenery is intoxicating in every detail. A must-see for those who love photography and beautiful scenery. 🌅[Inasa Beach]: The torii gate on the beach is stunning, especially during sunset. It's incredibly photogenic; every shot is a masterpiece. 🌟[Hinomisaki Lighthouse]: Japan's tallest stone lighthouse. Standing atop, you can overlook the vast ocean and take in the breathtaking seascape. Sunsets here are also magnificent. 🍱Food Recommendations 🦀[Matsuba Crab]: Izumo's specialty seafood, known for its delicious and nutritious meat. Whether steamed or in a hot pot, it's incredibly tasty. 🍜[Izumo Soba Noodles]: One of Japan's three major soba varieties, it has a unique texture and a fun "five ways to eat" tradition. 🍶[Izumo Local Sake]: The local sake has a rich flavor. A must-try for those who enjoy alcoholic beverages. 🏨Accommodation Recommendations 🏨[Hoshino Resorts KAI Izumo]: A high-end onsen resort under the Hoshino Resorts brand, known for its hot springs, cultural performances, and tea ceremony experiences. It has a wonderful atmosphere. 🏠[Takenoya Ryokan]: A traditional Japanese inn converted from the ancestral home of Mariya Takeuchi, a famous Japanese musician. Located at the entrance of Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine, it offers hot springs and is full of classic Japanese charm. ❗Important Notes 1. Plan your itinerary in advance, as some attractions are far apart. 2. The worship method at Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine is "two bows, four claps, one bow," which is different from other shrines. 3. Be mindful of any seafood allergies. Come to Izumo and experience its unique mythological charm 💕