Miho Shrine

Miho Shrine is a shrine in Matsue City. It is the head shrine of more than 3,000 Ebisu shrines of the Kotoshironushi-no-kami lineage, enshrining deities associated with prosperous business, fishing and maritime transport, and protection of rice fields from pests. In recent years it has also been called a deity of musical performance, and musical instruments are dedicated there. Visiting only Izumo Taisha is known as “kata-mairi” (one-sided pilgrimage), and it is customary to visit Miho Shrine together. Although it is some distance from Izumo Taisha, devotees say they can truly feel its blessings, creating many repeat visitors. Together with Izumo Taisha, it is referred to as “Izumo no Ebisu-Daikoku.” Because it faces the sea, the Morote-bune Shinji held every winter is a rare maritime Shinto ritual that draws many tourists from across Japan. As a “hidden spot,” there is a turtle stone statue behind the main hall; water that flows there is said never to dry up, and it is believed to bring “karenai” (never-drying) blessings—such as never running out of work, money, or passion. Access: from JR Matsue Station, take a bus to Miho-seki Bus Terminal, transfer, get off at “Miho Jinja Iriguchi,” then walk about 2 minutes.