Kamosu Shrine

Overview

Kamosu Shrine (Kamosu Jinja) is a Shinto shrine in Oba-cho, Matsue, Shimane Prefecture. Formerly ranked as a prefectural shrine, it is counted among the Ou Rokusha, the six shrines of the Ou district. Its main hall, a Taisha-zukuri structure, is the oldest surviving example of that style and is designated a National Treasure, conveying the solemn presence of Izumo's ancient shrines.

Highlights

• ●A National Treasure Honden, the oldest surviving Taisha-zukuri hall
• ●A branch Inari shrine of the same era, an Important Cultural Property
• ●A venerable shrine counted among the six Ou Rokusha shrines
• ●A place of Izumo faith fondly known as Kamosu-san

History

The Honden was built in 1583 in the Taisha-zukuri style and, as the oldest surviving example of that architecture, is a National Treasure. Within the precincts stands a branch Inari shrine of the same period, designated an Important Cultural Property. Also known by names such as Oba Omiya, the shrine has long drawn reverence as a venerable ancient site of the Ou region.

Map

35.4170, 133.0830 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Visit Kamosu Shrine in Oba-cho, Matsue
2. 2Gaze up close at the National Treasure Taisha-zukuri Honden
3. 3View the Important Cultural Property branch Inari shrine as well
4. 4Take a history walk to the Ou Rokusha shrines and Izumo provincial capital ruins

Did you know?

💡 Bearing the unusual name Kamosu, the shrine is affectionately called Kamosu-san by locals. Taisha-zukuri, epitomized by Izumo Taisha, is among Japan's oldest shrine architectural styles, and being able to gaze up close at its oldest surviving hall is a great draw for travelers keen on architecture and history.

Nearby spots