What to know
The Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo (Shimanekenritsu Kodai Izumo Rekishi Hakubutsukan) explores the history and archaeology of Izumo Taisha and the surrounding region, which played a key role in early Japan. Located right next to the grand shrine, the museum traces the area's story from prehistoric times through the shrine's construction and evolution, focusing on its architecture, mythology, and the people it served.
One of the most unique exhibits is the remains of a massive pillar over a meter in diameter, fueling speculation about how the shrine was built more than 1000 years ago. Some records suggest the main shrine buildings once stood atop hundreds of enormous wooden pillars, reaching heights of about 48 meters. The museum features large conceptual models of this ancient structure.
The permanent exhibition also displays hundreds of archaeological artifacts excavated from the area, including bronze swords and bells, and Japan's only complete copy of the Izumo no Kuni Fudoki—ancient historical and mythological reports of Izumo Province. Temporary special exhibitions are held periodically as well.
The Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo sits just beside the grounds of Izumo Taisha, a five-minute walk from Izumo Taisha-mae Station.
How to get to and around Izumo Closed Closed for renovations until September 2026 Questions? Ask in our forum.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- Closed
- Closed for renovations until September 2026
- Admission
- English name
- Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo
- Original name
- Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo
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