Izumo province is one of the oldest areas of Japan, and has an abundance of legends and myths. Therefore, the region is known as "Province of the Gods". Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine is considered as one of the most ancient and important shrines in Japan. The ancient shrine is designed as a national treasure. It is believed that the gods gather at Izumo Shrine in October to discuss the coming year's marriages, deaths, and births. Japanese call October kannazuki'' ("the month without gods"), but people of Izumo province call October kamiarizuki ("the month with gods").