🗺️ Shimane Prefectural Ancient Izumo History Museum島根県立古代出雲歴史博物館

*Due to construction, the museum is expected to be closed from April 2025 to September 2026.* The museum showcases precious materials related to Izumo Taisha and the many myths of ancient Izumo. In the central hall, a giant wooden pillar called "Uzuzukuri" discovered within the grounds of Izumo Taisha in 2000 is on display. The three exhibition rooms are categorized by themes: "Izumo Taisha and the Land of the Gods' Rituals" features a ten-to-one scale model of the large high-rise shrine from the Heian period. In "Bronze Ware and Golden Swords," a spectacular scene displays 358 national treasure bronze swords and 39 bronze artifacts lined up. The "Mythology Corridor" introduces the Shimane myths found in the "Kojiki," "Nihon Shoki," and "Izumo no Kuni Fudoki" in a clear and understandable manner, along with several highlights such as the "Comprehensive Exhibition Hall," where visitors can experience jade drilling. Additionally, there is a camphor tree in the garden with heart-shaped leaves, which is worth a visit.

Exhibiting national treasures and precious materials related to Izumo. Through the giant wooden pillars and restored models, one can gain a deeper understanding of Izumo Taisha. A detailed introduction to the myths and legends of Shimane as recorded in literature such as the "Nihon Shoki" (Chronicles of Japan) is also provided. The garden featuring heart-shaped leaves of the katsura tree and the Haniwa no Mori (はにわの森) is also worth a visit.