10 Best Lunch Spots Near Izumo Taisha Shrine

Izumo, in western Japan, has long been associated with Japanese mythology. Its best-known landmark is Izumo Taisha, a major shrine associated with en musubi, the forming and nurturing of bonds between people. Izumo City is also known for its seafood and locally grown produce, thanks to its location along the Sea of Japan. Here are 10 places to enjoy lunch while exploring the area around Izumo Taisha Shrine.

• Sanin/Sanyo
• Shimane
• lunch

Hinomisaki Drive-In

Hinomisaki Drive-In brings together two highlights of the coast: fresh seafood and sweeping views of the Sea of Japan. Set at the western tip of the Shimane Peninsula, its signature seafood bowl comes piled high with fresh seafood. With the sea stretching out ahead, lunch here comes with a view.

okinogami blue cacao’s 2nd

Discover a savoury side of cacao at okinogami blue cacao’s 2nd, a café on Shinmon-dori near Izumo Taisha. Its signature curry is made with cacao nibs, whose bitterness and richness add depth to the dish.

Pair it with a popular canelé or cacao drink, then browse the craft chocolate made from cacao beans imported and processed by the company. The café is housed in a converted optician’s shop with the feel of an old Japanese house.

Night & Day Misty

Head to Night & Day Misty, a nostalgic café where jazz plays in the background and hearty comfort food is served. Its signature spaghetti gratin uses spaghetti instead of the usual macaroni or penne, while the menu offers a wide range of generously portioned pasta dishes at reasonable prices. Arriving seriously hungry? Go for one of the extra-large pasta or curry dishes.

Garyou

Plan ahead for a reservation-only lunch at Garyou, just five minutes from Izumoshi Station. The star is Okuizumo Wagyu steak, aged for at least one month to bring out its tenderness and depth of flavour. San’in seafood and local vegetables are transformed using molecular gastronomy techniques, while an extensive drinks list offers plenty of pairing possibilities. Choose between the teppanyaki counter and a private room. Reservations must be made by the day before.

Cafe LINQ Takasegawa

Follow the willow-lined Takase River from Izumoshi Station to Cafe LINQ Takasegawa, housed in a century-old machiya with its own courtyard.

Order the popular green curry, packed with chunks of eggplant and bamboo shoots. Scandinavian vintage and mid-century furniture create an unexpected contrast with the traditional Japanese setting, making this an inviting place to linger after lunch. Missed lunchtime? Many dishes from the café’s regular menu are also available after 5:00 p.m.

Aji Kobo Matsushima

Near Izumoshi Station, Aji Kobo Matsushima combines Kyoto-trained techniques with ingredients from Izumo. The lunch menu focuses on ramen, with the standout Junkei Ramen featuring a rich broth made with three kinds of chicken and house-made noodles aged to give them a satisfyingly chewy texture.

Kyosai Chubo Nagata

Kyosai Chubo Nagata is a Kyoto-style restaurant in a residential neighbourhood of Izumo. After 14 years of training at renowned restaurants in Kyoto, the chef uses fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan and Kyoto vegetables to create delicate dishes that reflect the season.

The lunch bento brings together a colourful assortment of small portions, offering a taste of several dishes in one meal. For a more indulgent experience, choose from three chef-selected kaiseki courses at different price points.

Mare dorato

For a special meal by the sea, head to Mare Dorato, near Inasa-no-hama Beach. The chef, who has prepared meals for members of Japan’s Imperial Family and other notable guests, creates refined dishes that make the most of ingredients from Izumo. European furniture gives the dining room an elegant atmosphere, with views of the sun setting over the Sea of Japan. An adjoining antique shop sells beautiful furnishings, and accommodation is available exclusively to one group per night. Dinner requires reservations, and so do course meals at both lunch and dinner.

cafe LEON

About a 20-minute walk from Izumoshi Station, cafe LEON has a modern, natural interior and a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere. The café uses carefully selected ingredients for its varied menu, including a Seasonal Plate Lunch and original sweets that change with the seasons. Its aromatic coffee, made with a professional espresso machine, is also popular. Breakfast, lunch and desserts are available, as well as takeaway options.

Kanunrou

For a taste of Izumo’s culinary heritage, visit Kanunrou, a long-established traditional Japanese kappō restaurant with a history of serving Izumo Taisha. The restaurant’s first owner learned the recipe for uzuni at the shrine around 130 years ago. This unusual dish features rice submerged in a delicate soup with vegetables and pufferfish, allowing their savoury flavours to blend together. The menu also includes a seafood bowl featuring seafood from the Sea of Japan. A selection of fine local sake, including junmai ginjo, is also available to enjoy with the traditional dishes.

Enjoy Lunch Around Izumo Taisha Shrine

With everything from local specialties and traditional Japanese cuisine to French, Italian, and café-style options, there are plenty of places to enjoy lunch near Izumo Taisha Shrine. Choose a restaurant that suits your tastes and schedule, and make the most of your visit to this iconic shrine.