Tracing the Story of Love, Kindness, and Good Fortune in Izumo
Contents
- The Youngest of Eighty Brothers
- The White Rabbit of Inaba
- Yagami-hime and the Beginning of Love
- The Birth of Ebisu
- Explore More Izumo Myths
- Continue Your Journey to Mihonoseki
- Where to Stay in Mihonoseki
The Youngest of Eighty Brothers
Ōkuninushi, the principal deity enshrined at Izumo Taisha, is one of the most beloved figures in Japanese mythology.
According to the ancient myths, he was the youngest of eighty brothers.
One day, his brothers set out for the land of Inaba to meet the beautiful Princess Yagami (Yagami-hime).
Ōkuninushi was made to carry their luggage as they traveled together along the Sea of Japan.
The White Rabbit of Inaba
Along the coast, they came across a white rabbit whose skin had been torn away after being deceived by sharks.
While the older brothers ignored both the rabbit and Ōkuninushi, the youngest brother stopped to help.
Following his advice, the rabbit bathed in fresh water and rested among soft reeds, allowing its wounds to heal.
In gratitude, the White Rabbit foretold that Yagami-hime would choose Ōkuninushi rather than any of his brothers.
Today, this famous legend is remembered at Hakuto Shrine in Tottori, where visitors can still see statues of the White Rabbit overlooking the Sea of Japan.
→ Like a Dream, and a Little Frightening — The Sea of Tottori and the Memory of Hakuto Shrine
Yagami-hime and the Beginning of Love
As the rabbit had foretold, Princess Yagami chose Ōkuninushi because of his kindness and sincerity.
Their marriage has long been regarded as a symbol of love, family, and meaningful connections.
This is one of the reasons why Izumo Taisha is now widely known as Japan’s most famous shrine for en-musubi—the blessing of bringing people together.
The story continues across Izumo.
At Yaegaki Shrine and Suga Shrine, another famous tale of love unfolds through Susanoo and Kushinadahime.
→ A Journey Through Izumo Mythology at Yaegaki Shrine and Suga Shrine
Visitors can also continue westward to Inasa no Hama, where another important chapter of Izumo mythology begins.
→ Inasa Beach — Where Sand Carries Prayers
The Birth of Ebisu
Later, Ōkuninushi and Yagami-hime became the parents of Ebisu, one of Japan’s Seven Lucky Gods.
Ebisu is worshipped throughout Japan as the deity of prosperity, fishing, and good fortune.
His principal shrine is Miho Shrine in the quiet fishing town of Mihonoseki.
Many visitors make a pilgrimage to both Izumo Taisha and Miho Shrine, believing that visiting the two sacred places together strengthens blessings for relationships, family, and prosperity.
When I visited Miho Shrine, a wedding ceremony had just begun.
Along the beautiful Aoishidatami Street, the groom and his family quietly waited for the bride’s arrival.
It was a peaceful scene that seemed to reflect the gentle spirit of this ancient story.
→ Miho Shrine and Aoishidatami Street — Walking Through a Historic Port Town
Explore More Izumo Myths
Continue exploring the stories that shaped the landscapes of San’in.
- Like a Dream, and a Little Frightening — The Sea of Tottori and the Memory of Hakuto Shrine
- Inasa Beach — Where Sand Carries Prayers
- A Journey Through Izumo Mythology at Yaegaki Shrine and Suga Shrine
- Hinomisaki Lighthouse and Miho Shrine
Continue Your Journey to Mihonoseki
The story of Ōkuninushi continues in the quiet port town of Mihonoseki.
- Miho Shrine and Aoishidatami Street
- Three Days Around Kaike Onsen, Mihonoseki, and Mount Daisen
- Mihokan — Staying in a Historic Port Town
Where to Stay in Mihonoseki
【PR】Stay at Mihokan, a Registered National Cultural Property
Explore more accommodation options in Mihonoseki via Agoda.
