Welcome to the shrine that honors the Kusanagi sword. Here’s the story behind it:

Once, a god named Susanoo was traveling and came upon a river. There, he saw an elderly couple and their daughter in distress. They shared a story about a monstrous eight-headed serpent named Yamata-no-Orochi, who had already taken seven daughters from their family, and the last would soon be next.

Susanoo decided to help them. He instructed the couple to prepare eight large barrels of sake and set them up along the riverbank.

Before long, with a thud that shook the ground, Yamata-no-Orochi arrived, enticed by the aroma of the sake. The giant snake drank from the barrels and soon became intoxicated, collapsing to the ground.

Taking advantage of the moment, Susanoo drew his sword and severed each of the eight heads. When he cut through the tail last, he discovered a shining sword hidden within. This sword eventually came to be known as the Kusanagi sword and became associated with the hero Yamato Takeru.

As you explore this area, take a moment to look at the worship hall of Izumo Takeo Shrine. Relocated from Uchiyama Eikyu-ji Temple, it’s now a designated National Treasure. The hall has been a place of quiet prayer and reflection over the years.