Izumo Cultural Heritage Museum

Surrounded by the beautiful Tsuiji-pine trees unique to the Izumo region, this facility was opened with the aim of "Inheriting the fading traditions of the Izumo region to the present generation.”

Passing through the gate, visitors will see the main house of the former Ezumi family, who once made their fortune as wealthy farmers. The magnificent house, built in 1896 (Meiji 29), has been relocated, and visitors can experience the traditional architectural features of the past. The spacious earthen floor, zelkova pillars, and black spruce beams are all magnificent, as is the dignified atmosphere. Visitors can also take off their shoes to enter the three-room structure, which consists of a san-no-ma, a ni-no-ma, and a sho-in (drawing room).

From the sho-in, visitors can enjoy a wonderful view of the Izumo-style dry landscape garden, which is paved with sand. The stone garden boasts an area of approximately 430 tsubo (approximately 1,420 square meters), planted mainly with black spruce trees and other greenery. The garden is said to have been influenced by the tea ceremony, which is why there are chozu–bachi (washbasin) along with stepping stones and lanterns.

After leisurely admiring the garden, visitors can enjoy an exhibition of representative Japanese arts and crafts as well as works by local artists at the studio. For details, check the official website.