Kumano Shrine

Kumano Taisha is a shrine in Matsue City said to be the birthplace of fire, also known as “Nihon Hi-dehajime no Yashiro.” Together with Izumo Taisha, it is an Ichinomiya of Izumo Province. Because Susanoo is said to have gifted Inada-hime a comb at their betrothal, the Mikushi Festival is held on April 13, where combs are dedicated at the subordinate Inada Shrine. Related to this, matchmaking comb charms are also sold and are popular with young women. Although the shrine sits quietly in the mountains, wrapped in nature, the grounds feel solemn and sacred. A distinctive ritual is the Kiribi-sai held every year on October 15: the chief priest of Izumo Taisha visits, and a lower-ranking priest of Kumano Taisha theatrically nitpicks the quality of mochi offered by Izumo Taisha—an unusual ceremonial exchange. Weddings are also held here; if you hear the court-music-style “Yakumo-gaku,” you’re in luck. There is also a sasaré-ishi stone (famous from the national anthem) dedicated on the grounds. Access: from Matsue Station, take a bus to Yakumo Shako, transfer to the Yakumo community bus, get off at “Kumano Taisha-mae,” immediately nearby.