Izumo

Izumo's great shrine underwent repeated rebuilding, supported by priests, military rulers and worshippers far beyond the province. In 1609 its main sanctuary was reconstructed with stone foundations replacing the earlier earthfast pillars. Buddhist buildings also stood within the precinct, reflecting the combination of religious practices that had developed around the shrine during the medieval centuries.

The reconstruction of 1667 followed negotiations with the Tokugawa authorities. The shogunate contributed funds, and a main sanctuary about twenty-four metres high restored a larger architectural form. Buddhist structures were transferred to neighbouring temples during the same undertaking. Another rebuilding produced the sanctuary of 1744. With government assistance initially uncertain, shrine personnel obtained permission to travel through domains, conduct rites and collect donations from towns and villages. The completed building followed the 1667 arrangement. Izumo's religious centre was therefore sustained through renewed construction, official permission and networks of patronage that connected its local precinct with communities across Japan.