Konami-ura

Historical Footprints

In the verse, ‘Konami’ (little waves) is written using a different character for ‘wave’ than the one used today. The modern character can also be found in the Unyoushi, suggesting a gradual shift in written form over time.

Konami, along with Okidomari, Tako, and Sezaki, was likely considered part of the broader Nonami area. Since Sezaki and Nonami are both recorded in the Fudoki, it is reasonable to assume that Konami was historically included within Nonami’s boundaries.

The present shrine located in Aza Hiratasan is Nunami-jinja, and there is little doubt that its earlier form was known as ‘Kunishi-jinja’. In the early Edo-period text “Izumo Fudoki-sho” by Kishizaki Jishou, the shrine appears under the name ‘Kunishi’, written with different characters. Later, in 1866, Omura Washiro recorded visiting the same shrine under the name ‘Kunishi Daimyojin’, again using another variation of characters, and received an official seal from the shrine priest, Asakura Nagato.

It is highly likely that the pronunciation ‘Kunishi’ remained consistent, although variations such as ‘Kunitoshi’ and ‘Kuninushi’ also appear.

While the shrine is now located in Aza Hiratasan, it was formerly situated in the Maeda area. Notably, the old shrine of Nonami was also located in Maeda.

According to the Fudoki, Nunami Shrine is described as “Nonami Beach. A shrine stands on the eastern side.” This suggests that the original Nunami Shrine was located to the east of Nonami, rather than in its present position in Konami.

It is therefore reasonable to conclude that, over time, Nunami Shrine was relocated from Nonami to Konami. Considering that several shrine names were omitted during the compilation of the Fudoki, it is also possible that two separate Nunami shrines once existed within the Shimane district.

Pilgrimage Route Guide

Nunami-jinja is located on a hill to the east of the Konami bathing area. In 2001 (Heisei 13), the shrine underwent an official ceremonial transfer of its deity, and the newly installed paired koma-inu (guardian lion-dogs) leave a strong impression.

Every year on February 11, the ‘Ise-jingu-sai’ is held at a small auxiliary shrine (O-isesan) to the right of the main prayer hall. Traditionally, the priest places several pieces of paper marked with different dates on top of rice set on a sanpo (a small ceremonial wooden stand). Using a heigushi wand, one of the papers is selected, and the chosen date is believed to indicate an auspicious day for a successful fishing catch.

During the New Year, Konami comes alive with a children’s omikoshi procession dedicated to Toshitokugami. In the past, the portable shrine was carried into the sea as part of a purification ritual, but in recent years this practice has been discontinued due to safety concerns.

In earlier times, the shallow waters of Konami Beach were rich in shellfish, and clams could be gathered in abundance. Unlike turban shells, their collection was not restricted, making it a popular local activity. It is said that bathing in these waters ensures good health for the year ahead, making it a rewarding destination for visitors.

Accommodation is available in the area, but many visitors find that camping beneath the summer night sky offers a particularly memorable experience. The local lodge “Nakayoshi” operates during the summer season and can also provide meals in winter with advance reservation.

About a decade ago, the area experienced a surge in visitors after Matsue-based diver Sano Shiro appeared on television introducing Izumo mythology. Autographs and messages from visitors and celebrities can still be seen displayed at Nakayoshi Lodge.

Konami-ura has also served as a filming location for the movie “Hana Ichimonme,” a drama depicting the strengthening of family bonds through adversity.

The cobalt-blue waves, white sandy beaches, and green pine trees of Konami Bay have long offered a sense of calm and healing. The scenery evokes lines from the choral suite “Tabi” by Sato Shin, including the song “Nagisa Arukeba”:

“When we walk along the shore, the sound of the tides moves our hearts, reminding us of our own pasts. As we walk along the shore, we recall the nostalgia of summer days gone by.”

Another verse that comes to mind is from the song “The Little Road in the Town”:

“As the old man of the town told stories by the crackling fire, we heard tales of long ago—of a tanuki that transformed into a man.”