Yaegaki Shrine

Yaegaki Shrine is a shrine in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture, known as a place for enmusubi (matchmaking/relationship bonds) and visited by many tourists daily. A famous custom is at Kagami-no-Ike (Mirror Pond) behind the shrine: float a fortune paper and place a coin (10 or 100 yen) on it. If it sinks within 15 minutes, a close-by connection is said to come soon; if it takes over 30 minutes, the connection is said to come later and from farther away. It is considered especially lucky if a newt (imori) crosses over the paper. The main hall’s wooden panel paintings are designated Important Cultural Properties, offering a sense of history from centuries ago. According to legend, after defeating Yamata-no-Orochi, Susanoo-no-Mikoto and Inada-hime became united here, making it a major enmusubi deity in Izumo lore. It is often described as a love-fulfillment power spot, attracting many women seeking good relationships. There is also a “married camellia” tree (a single trunk with branches joined) called the “child-blessing camellia.” Access: from Matsue Station, about 30 minutes by bus.