Birthplace of Japanese Mythology
In the heart of Shimane Prefecture lies Unnan City, the sacred birthplace of Japanese mythology. This is where Susanoo-no-Mikoto descended from the heavens, where the legendary eight-headed serpent Yamata no Orochi met its fate, and where the foundations of Japan's spiritual identity were forged. The ancient chronicles of Kojiki and Nihon Shoki place these divine events in the mountains and valleys that surround this mystical land.
Cast down from the heavens, the storm god Susanoo arrived in Izumo, bringing with him the power of thunder and the spirit of rebellion. His arrival marked the beginning of divine intervention in the mortal realm.
The eight-headed serpent terrorized the land, demanding yearly sacrifices. At the Hi River in Unnan, Susanoo confronted the beast in an epic battle that would echo through eternity, saving Princess Kushinada and claiming the legendary Kusanagi sword.
Following his victory, Susanoo and Kushinada were wed at Suga Shrine, Japan's first shrine. Here, the storm god composed Japan's first poem, forever linking divine power with human artistry.
Journey through the legendary landscapes where myth and history converge. Each location holds secrets of the divine and echoes of ancient power.
須我神社 | Daitocho Suga
Japan's first shrine, built by Susanoo-no-Mikoto after his victory over Yamata no Orochi. Here, the storm god composed the nation's first waka poem upon marrying Princess Kushinada. The shrine stands as the spiritual origin point of Japanese shrine architecture and poetry, nestled in the peaceful mountains east of Unnan City.
熊ヶ瀬川 | Scenic River Valley
A pristine river valley where nature's raw power is on full display. The rushing waters cascade through ancient rock formations, creating a landscape that has remained virtually unchanged since the age of gods. This sacred waterway feeds into the legendary Hi River system, carrying the essence of mythological times.
斐伊川堤防桜並木 | Hi River
Along the banks of the Hi River, where Susanoo confronted the eight-headed serpent, thousands of cherry trees bloom each spring. The 2-kilometer pathway transforms into a tunnel of blossoms, creating a stunning contrast between ancient legend and natural beauty. This is where blood once stained the waters, now celebrated with life and renewal.
八本杉 | Eight Cryptomeria Grove
Eight towering cryptomeria trees stand as living monuments to Yamata no Orochi. Legend holds these ancient giants represent the eight heads of the serpent, their roots drawing from the same ground where the beast fell. The grove emanates an otherworldly presence, with trees reaching heights that defy explanation and ages that span centuries.
鬼飛山城跡 | Mountain Fortress
Perched atop a mountain whose name means "where demons fly," these castle ruins command sweeping views of the mythological landscape below. Built in medieval times, the fortress overlooks the very valleys where gods once walked. The strategic position offers panoramic vistas of Unnan City and the sacred corridor leading to Suga Shrine.
斐伊川 | River of Legend
The legendary river where Susanoo tricked and defeated Yamata no Orochi flows through the heart of Unnan. The god prepared eight vats of sake, placing them on platforms across the river. When the serpent drank and fell into drunken slumber, Susanoo struck with divine fury. The waters still flow, carrying stories of heroism and divine intervention.
Highway 24: The Sacred Corridor
Beginning of the Sacred Journey
Shimane Prefectural Road 24
Daitocho Suga - Japan's First Shrine
The Orochi Legend Road follows Highway 24 (Shimane Prefectural Road 24), a scenic corridor that connects the modern center of Unnan City with the ancient sacred grounds of Suga Shrine in Daitocho Suga to the east. This route traces the path of mythology itself, passing through landscapes where Susanoo battled Yamata no Orochi and ultimately found peace.
As you journey eastward along Highway 24, you traverse the same sacred geography described in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki. The road winds through mountain valleys, crosses the Hi River, and leads you through time itself—from the contemporary world into the realm of the divine. This is more than a highway; it is a pilgrimage route connecting past and present.
MAP PLACEHOLDER: A custom map showing Highway 24's route from Unnan City to Suga Shrine will be displayed here, highlighting key landmarks and sacred sites along the Orochi Legend Road.
Experience the landscapes where mythology became reality. Stand at the Hi River where Susanoo fought Yamata no Orochi. Visit Suga Shrine, Japan's original shrine. Follow the Orochi Legend Road through mountains that have witnessed millennia of sacred history.
Unnan City invites you to discover the origins of Japanese spirituality. Whether you seek historical insight, cultural immersion, or spiritual awakening, these sacred lands offer an unparalleled connection to Japan's mythological heritage.
The gods are waiting.