Izumo Taisha enshrines Okuninushi no Okami, the Shinto deity of relationships, and is built in Japan’s ancient Taisha-zukuri architectural style. The giant shimenawa hanging at the Kaguraden is one of the largest sacred ropes in Japan and is truly impressive.
There are nearly 50 stone rabbits of all kinds around the shrine grounds. Some are playing, some are praying, and they all look vivid and adorable. According to legend, rabbits repaid a kindness by bringing together Okuninushi and Princess Yagami, so at Izumo Taisha, rabbits are seen as symbols of good matches and messengers of connection.
In front of the shrine, there’s a Starbucks, Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten, and more. You can also find wooden rice paddles, many of them decorated with matchmaking symbols from Izumo Taisha or delicate wood carvings. They represent connection and good luck, making them a nice gift for friends and family.
Izumo Taisha | Review by 周黛西
Other Reviews by 周黛西
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Wakayama Electric Railway Kishigawa Line
This 14.3 km long local line connects Wakayama Station and Kishi Station. Originally operated by a major operator, the line was reported to be closed due to long-standing losses. However, thanks to enthusiastic efforts by residents along the line, the local government publicly recruited a successor operator to ensure the continuation of the line, and in 2006 the line was reopened as Wakayama Electric Railway.
Drawn by a calico cat stationmaster, I came to Idakiso Station (GOTAMA was on duty) and boarded the luxurious cat-themed train to Kishi Station. Kishi Station became famous after the cat stationmaster Tama began serving there. The first cat stationmaster, Tama, who took office in 2007, has since become an angel. The current successor is the fourth-generation Tama, 6TAMA, carrying on the cat stationmaster's adorable image and friendliness.
The station's design also incorporates many cute cat elements. The roof is shaped like cat ears, and the walls feature cat patterns. The overall design is full of childlike charm, with lots of cute cat details inside and outside the station. Travelers who come because of its fame get excited as soon as they step off the train. It truly is a must-visit stop for cat lovers.
The cute and lovable calico cat stationmaster not only raised Kishi Station's profile but also boosted local tourism. With cat-themed decorations and facilities, Kishi Station successfully became a famous Wakayama attraction. It not only revitalized the area but also brought widespread fame to this once sparsely visited station. Kishi Station is more than just a transportation hub; it's also a successful example of using creativity to promote local development. Today, its unique charm and warm atmosphere draw countless visitors who come to experience this little cat station filled with love and endless creativity.
The souvenir shop inside Kishi Station is packed with a dazzling variety of products. Next to Tama Cafe, it is also themed around the legendary cat stationmaster Tama and sells creative Tama merchandise. I wanted to buy every single item and take it home 😆😆.
Across from Kishi Station is Kinokawa City's tourist exchange center, Kirari, which also has a very cute exterior. The second-floor windows look like a pair of adorable doll eyes. Inside is an information center offering travel information and transportation guides, making it easy for visitors to learn about nearby attractions and how to get around.
I fell in love with Wakayama on my first visit. Next, I'll slowly check off the other attractions〜 -
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Byodoin Temple Museum Hoshokan
The museum is located within the premises of the World Heritage site, Byodoin, famous for its magnificent Phoenix Hall (Hou-ou-do) which recreates the Pure Land of Bliss in this world.
My second visit to Byodoin in Uji. Phoenix Hall sits in the middle of Aji Pond, its vermilion structure reflected on the water. It looks impressive from every angle, especially when sunlight makes the golden phoenixes on the roof stand out.
I recommend paying extra to tour the interior of Phoenix Hall. Seeing the golden Amida Buddha up close, surrounded by the variously posed Praying Bodhisattvas on Clouds, is both solemn and intricate, and truly more awe-inspiring than viewing them from across the pond. Photography isn't allowed, but that lets you focus on the thousand-year-old Buddhist statues and murals before you. The grounds are beautifully maintained, with flowers and trees changing through the seasons. Walking beside the pond in the gentle breeze and looking at Phoenix Hall's reflection naturally slows you down.
Photography is prohibited inside the Hoshokan Museum, so engage all five senses and take it in. The exhibits include the temple bell, Praying Bodhisattvas on Clouds, a pair of phoenixes, and the Standing Eleven-Headed Kannon Bodhisattva, an Important Cultural Property. The Praying Bodhisattvas on Clouds are especially memorable. Their poses—flying on clouds, playing music, dancing, and pressing their palms together—symbolize the Pure Land of Bliss.
Overall, Byodoin isn't just a place to see architecture and take pictures. You can also experience the aesthetics and Pure Land faith of the Heian period. If you visit Uji, it's well worth setting aside time to stroll around and appreciate it at a leisurely pace. -
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JR Central Towers
A building directly connected to the terminal station, consisting of two towers with a height of over 200m. Department stores JR Nagoya Takashimaya, Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel, restaurants, offices, etc. are combined.
Nagoya Station brings together transportation, dining, department stores, and specialty shops. Meitetsu, Kintetsu, and JR all converge here, and the surrounding area is packed with high-rises, making it lively and bustling. Besides looking around this time, I also wanted to visit an “old friend”—Nana-chan. She happened to be getting a wardrobe change today and was dressed in a cool outfit. Cool!
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