⛩️ Manjūkyū Jinja (Wanjukyu Shrine)

It is said that every year during "Kami in the Month" (the 10th month of the lunar calendar), gods from all over Japan gather in Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture. The final stop for these visiting deities is this ancient shrine, officially named "Mankyu Senja." It is said that after the gods hold their divine council and feast here, they set off to return to their respective domains. There are four main deities enshrined: Kushi Mitama no Mikoto, Sukuna Hikona no Mikoto, Ōnamuchi no Mikoto, and Yaoyorozu no Kami, who are believed to bestow blessings such as peace in the world, abundant harvests, prosperity in various industries, recovery from illness, safe travels, and the fulfillment of wishes. The sacred grounds include the Iwakura and the shimenawa, which are said to be the resting places of the gods. In front, there is the main hall of Mankyu Senja. Additionally, there is the main hall of "Tachiwaki Jinja," which was relocated here in 1670, enshrining three divine children of Susanoo no Mikoto. Moreover, within the shrine grounds, you can find original ema (votive tablets) illustrated by popular artist Nagasaki Himaru (永崎ひまる), featuring the various gods from the divine banquet. The cute style of these illustrations is also very well-loved.

According to legend, the gods descended to Izumo for their final visit at an ancient shrine during the month of the lunar calendar (October). The deities enshrined here are Kushi-mikenu no Mikoto, Sukunahikona no Mikoto, Ōanamuchi no Mikoto, and eight million gods. The grounds also include the main hall of "Tachiwaki Shrine," which enshrines three deities from mythology.