Okuizumo Past and Present: Explore the Land of Myths, Okuizumo and Yasugi; a premium tour that explores the past and present of this region, shaped by the tradition of tatara ironwork. Bringing together local cultural stewards and visitors to create meaningful connections and shape a shared future.

A participatory storytelling tour tracing the thousand-year history of ironmaking and its cultural heritage

The Okuizumo region and Yasugi developed through the tatara ironwork method, an ancient method of iron production. A journey tracing the story and cultural heritage of the Japanese heritage site Izumo-kuni Tatara Fudoki, visiting the scattered sites of its traditions, and connecting with the current cultural stewards to envision your own future
1. Special limited opening of Tamahagane Engi, a designated cultural property of Yasugi City
Special limited opening of Tamahagane Engi, a historical scroll depicting the story of tatara ironwork. Admire the grand 55-meter-long work and deepen your understanding of 1,400 years of tatara ironwork history.
2. Interaction with skilled blacksmiths
An apprenticeship experience with Hironari Koto, a swordsmith at the Kajikobo Hiromitsu blacksmith workshop, which has been practicing tatara ironwork and blacksmithing since the Edo period and continues to carry on the tradition to this day. Unlike regular ironwork experiences or shop tours, this unique experience allows participants to work with real blacksmithing tools and equipment in an authentic forge. Enjoy a moment of reflection, connecting with the thoughts and struggles of the swordsmiths who preserve history, all while examining your own past and future.
3. A dialogue-based tour tracing the story
A dialogue-based tour where you can immerse yourself in the myths of the birthplace of ironmaking, deepen your understanding, and explore the history, present, and future of tatara ironwork as a sustainable industry that has developed through a harmonious relationship between nature and people. Experience a unique sensory journey as you participate in a prayer ritual at the Kanayago Shrine, dedicated to the deity of ironmaking, and delve into the myths and history passed down in the area. Through a conversation with the director of the Sugaya Tatara Sannai, where you can learn about the historic scene of tatara ironwork, this tour allows you to fully immerse yourself in the story of tatara ironwork in a way never experienced before.