Izumo Kamiari Festival: Mysterious Festival of Lunar October When Gods from Across Japan Gather

The "Kamiari Festival" held at Izumo Taisha in Izumo City, Shimane is an important religious ceremony conducted over 7 days from lunar October 10-17 (early to mid-November in the current calendar). In Japan, lunar October is called "Kannazuki" (the month without gods), but Izumo alone calls it "Kamiari-zuki" (the month with gods).

Kamimukae Ceremony and Inasa Beach

The "Kamimukae Ceremony" that begins the Kamiari Festival is performed on the night of lunar October 10. A ceremony to welcome gods gathered from throughout Japan is performed at "Inasa Beach" approximately 1 kilometer from Izumo Taisha, with gods "landing" amid torchlight and solemn atmosphere. General worshippers can observe this ceremony from a distance.

The Matchmaking Council "Kamiari"

The purpose of the gods gathering in Izumo is said to be "Kamiari" — holding a council to determine various connections in people's lives including matchmaking. Matchmaking refers not only to romantic connections but to all life connections including work, friends, and family.

Taboos and Quietude During Kamiari Festival

During the Kamiari Festival period, customs around Izumo Taisha pass down "do not make noise" and "avoid making loud sounds." This is to maintain quietude while the gods reside, so as not to disturb their deliberations.

Access

5 minutes on foot from Ichibata Electric Railway Izumo Taisha-mae Station. About 30 minutes by bus from JR Izumo-shi Station.