The land of magatama – 勾玉の地

Magatama, literally meaning “curved bead”, dates back to the Yayoi period or earlier. Tamatsukuri means "bead making", and has been well-known as a source of agate for these beads since ancient times. Thought to hold spiritual powers, a magatama is one of the three imperial regalia of Japan. You can see the motif on the iconic magatama bridge of Tamatsukuri or in Tamayu River. Magatama and agate jewellery and ornaments can be purchased throughout the area.

Lying in the hills just to the rear of the onsen district, Izumo Tamatsukuri Historical Park is home to the largest ruins of jewellery-making facilities and workshops discovered within Japan. Located next to it is the Izumo Tamatsukuri Resource Centre, introducing the history of magatama-making and the local Fujina Ceramics.  Finally, you can have a try at making magatama beads yourself inside the Izumo Magatama-no-Sato Workshop and Museum located by Lake Shinji.

Izumo Magatama Resource Centre – 出雲玉作資料館
Admission fee	¥300
Opening Hours	All year from 9:00 - 17:00 Closed on Monday
Tel	0852-62-1040
Access	Can be accessed by going through the Historical Park located east of Tamayu River