Things To Do
in Izumo
Izumo is a charming coastal city located in Shimane Prefecture, Japan. It is famous for its ancient Shinto shrine, Izumo Taisha, which is dedicated to the god of marriage and relationships. The city is also known for its stunning sandy beaches and picturesque landscapes.
Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese culture, delicious seafood, and various festivals in Izumo throughout the year.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the Izumo Taisha Shrine, one of Japan's oldest and most important Shinto shrines. Take your time to appreciate the intricate architecture and serene surroundings.
Head to the Izumo Cultural Heritage Center to learn about the area's rich history and traditions. Engage with informative exhibits and local artifacts.
Stroll through the nearby Shinjiko Lake, enjoying the sunset views. Consider dining at a local restaurant that specializes in Izumo soba.
Take a hike in the scenic Yakuo-ji Temple area, surrounded by beautiful nature. Enjoy the tranquility and unique temple architecture along the way.
Visit the Hinomisaki Shrine, perched on a cliff with stunning ocean views. Explore the sacred structures and the stunning coastal landscape.
Relax at a local onsen (hot spring) to unwind from your day of exploration. Sip on green tea while enjoying the soothing atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance, including the famous Izumo Taisha Shrine.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains and coastline, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Less crowded compared to major tourist cities, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Local cuisine featuring fresh seafood and traditional Izumo soba noodles.
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Limited access to public transportation compared to larger cities, making it harder to get around.
- Fewer entertainment options and nightlife compared to metropolitan areas.
- Economic opportunities may be less diverse, leading to limited job prospects for certain professions.
- Potential language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
- Risk of natural disasters, such as earthquakes and typhoons, common in some parts of Japan.
Best Activities in Izumo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the ancient and revered Izumo Taisha, one of the oldest and most important Shinto shrines in Japan.
Embark on a hiking adventure in the scenic Chugoku Mountains, offering breathtaking views and serene natural surroundings.
Enjoy a relaxing day by the shores of Lake Shinji, where you can partake in water sports, picnics, and leisurely walks.
Tours
Uncover the best of Izumo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Izumo
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the oldest and most important Shinto shrines in Japan, offering a beautiful and historic setting for photography.
A winery with a scenic vineyard and mountain backdrop, perfect for capturing picturesque landscapes and enjoying wine tasting.
A traditional Japanese castle located by the water, providing stunning views and a glimpse into ancient architecture and history.
Food in Izumo
Izumo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Izumo is famous for its soba noodles, made from buckwheat and characterized by their unique texture and rich flavor. Head to Soba Restaurant Yoshimura for a taste of authentic Izumo soba.
Must-Try!
Taimeshi, or sea bream rice, is a local specialty featuring tender sea bream served on a bed of fragrant rice. Try this dish at Izumo Taimeshi Kamado for an exquisite dining experience.
Kawara soba, a dish of soba noodles served on a heated tile, is a must-try in Izumo. Visit Kawara Soba Ichibankan to savor this unique and delicious local specialty.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Izumo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore Izumo Asahi-dori Shotengai, a bustling shopping street lined with stalls and vendors offering a diverse range of street food, snacks, and local delicacies. Don't miss the opportunity to sample yakisoba, takoyaki, and fresh seafood skewers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to show respect when visiting shrines and temples in Izumo. This includes bowing, removing your shoes before entering certain areas, and refraining from loud or disruptive behavior.
Izumo values traditional manners, such as using polite language, offering and receiving items with both hands, and refraining from public displays of affection.
When dining in Izumo, it is important to observe proper etiquette, such as saying 'itadakimasu' before a meal, not sticking chopsticks directly into food, and expressing gratitude after the meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Izumo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Izumo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Izumo, Japan. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Izumo, Japan, payment is commonly made in cash. Credit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger establishments and tourist areas. It is important to carry enough cash as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Izumo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms and pleasant temperatures make it an ideal time to visit Izumo.
Warm weather, festivals, and outdoor activities are common during this season in Izumo.
Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage and mild weather in Izumo during this season.
Experience a quieter and peaceful atmosphere with some snowfall in Izumo during winter.
Izumo at Night
Hiking in Izumo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail near Kakeyu Onsen, offering beautiful views of the mountains and natural hot springs.
A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the summit.
A picturesque park with trails that weave through the woods, ideal for leisurely hikes and enjoying nature.
Hiking paths around the historic Izumo Taisha Shrine, combining culture and nature in a serene setting.
A vast national park that offers various hiking routes, from easy walks to more challenging treks, showcasing diverse ecosystems.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Izumo through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Izumo by plane.
The nearest airport to Izumo, serving domestic flights and limited international services.
Located approximately 200 km from Izumo, it serves both domestic and some international flights.
About 220 km from Izumo, connecting multiple domestic routes and some international flights.
Situated roughly 300 km from Izumo, this major international airport serves a wide range of international flights.
Also known as Itami Airport, located about 300 km from Izumo, primarily serving domestic flights with some international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant demographic group in Izumo, where the Izumo Taisha shrine, one of Japan's oldest and most important Shinto shrines, is located.
Another prominent demographic in Izumo, with various Buddhist temples and practices present in the area.
A growing demographic group in the city due to Japan's overall aging population, with many elderly residents.
Includes households with children, representing a significant part of the population, often involved in community activities and local schools.
This group includes university students and young professionals, contributing to the city's vibrancy.
While not a permanent demographic, tourists frequent Izumo, especially for cultural and religious visits, particularly to the Izumo Taisha shrine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Izumo, with many local teams and schools participating in tournaments.
Soccer has a strong following in Izumo, with numerous youth leagues and amateur clubs promoting the sport.
Kendo, the Japanese martial art of swordsmanship, is practiced widely in Izumo, emphasizing discipline and respect.
Basketball is a common sport in schools and local communities, with teams competing at various levels.
Judo is another martial art that is popular in Izumo, with many dojos teaching the sport to different age groups.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Izumo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Izumo's cuisine is largely seafood-centric, vegetarian and vegan options are available at select restaurants and cafes. Look for establishments that specialize in tofu-based dishes, fresh vegetable tempura, and sesame-flavored preparations.
Those in search of gluten-free options can opt for rice-based dishes such as sushi, sashimi, and grilled fish, which are readily available in Izumo's dining establishments.