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Izumo Grand Shrine; major Shinto shrine in Shimane Prefecture
One of the most important and ancient Shinto shrines in Japan, located in Izumo, Shimane Prefecture. Dedicated to Ōkuninushi no Mikoto, the deity associated with marriage and relationships. A major pilgrimage destination.
One of Japan's oldest shrines, said to predate the written historical record. Dedicated to 大国主命 (Ōkuninushi no Mikoto), a deity associated with agriculture, medicine, and especially 縁結び (forming connections, including romantic ones).
Cultural note
- The shrine uses 二礼四拍手一礼 (two bows, four claps, one bow) rather than the standard 二礼二拍手一礼
- In the lunar tenth month (神無月), all the gods of Japan are said to gather at Izumo
- Features a massive 注連縄 (sacred rope)