Ancient Izumo Historical Museum Comes to Nagoya from the Mythical Land of Shimane! Experience Event for All Ages at Sakae’s Chubu Building on August 1 (Sat)!

Shimane Prefecture is known as the 'Land of Myth,' frequently mentioned in ancient texts such as the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, and still home to numerous sites associated with Japanese mythology.

The Shimane Prefectural Ancient Izumo Historical Museum—located next to the renowned Izumo Taisha Shrine (currently closed for renovation, reopening October 2026)—will bring its immersive experience event to the Chubu Building in Sakae, Nagoya.

This event features hands-on workshops such as crafting your own magatama (curved jade beads) by carving soft white stone, and talk sessions led by museum curators. Come explore the romance of ancient Japan through engaging, family-friendly activities.

<Event Overview>

Event Name: 'From the Mythical Land of Shimane: The Ancient Izumo Historical Museum Comes to Town! Exciting Experience Day'

Date and Time: August 1, 2026 (Saturday), 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Venue: National Center Plaza, 5th Floor, Chubu Building, 4-1-1 Sakae, Naka-ku, Nagoya

Organizers: Shimane Prefecture Nagoya Information Center, Shimane Prefectural Ancient Izumo Historical Museum

Held on: August 1 (Saturday)

[Program 1] Carve Your Own Magatama Bead!

Magatama are ancient Japanese ornamental beads.

Participants will shape soft white stone using sandpaper, polish it to a shine, and paint it in their favorite color. Add beads to create your own unique magatama necklace!

Duration: 50 minutes

Capacity: First 60 participants

Fee: 500 JPY

Magatama Bead Crafting Experience

[Program 2] Create an Izumo-Inspired Japanese-Style Notebook

Experience the rare Edo-period dyeing technique 'Ai-Itajime' (indigo board clamp dyeing) from Izumo. Choose your favorite cover design inspired by traditional woodblock patterns and bind your own notebook using the traditional 'watoji' (Japanese binding) method. Nine designs available.

Schedule: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM (held every 15 minutes at two tables)

Duration: Approx. 20 minutes

Fee: Free

Capacity: 4 participants per session

Japanese-Style Notebook Experience

[Program 3] Touch Replicas of National Treasure Bronze Artifacts!

An interactive corner where visitors can touch faithful replicas of ancient bronze artifacts, including dotaku (bronze bells) and bronze swords.

Fee: Free

National Treasure Bronze Artifact Replicas

[Program 4] Try On Iwami Kagura Costumes!

Experience the traditional performing art of Iwami Kagura from western Shimane Prefecture. Children can wear full costumes and take photos, while adults can join in using props.

Fee: Free

Iwami Kagura, a traditional performing art long cherished in western Shimane

[Program 5] Talk Show: 'Crafting Ancient Izumo Jewels – Unraveling the Mystery of Magatama'

Time: 1:00–1:40 PM, 3:00–3:40 PM

A rare opportunity to hear directly from museum curators. Q&A session to follow.

Everyone is welcome!

Talk Show: 'Crafting Ancient Izumo Jewels – Unraveling the Mystery of Magatama'

[Program 6] Shimane-kko Photo Session

Meet Shimane Prefecture’s beloved mascot, 'Shimane-kko,' who will appear to energize the event!

Appearance Times: 11:30 AM, 4:00 PM

[Program 7] Museum Goods and Local Products Sale

Original merchandise available, including haniwa-themed goods, masking tape with dotaku patterns, and indigo-dyed items.

Haniwa and dotaku pattern goods available!

Indigo-dyed products are hand-dyed at the museum.