Shimane Attractions
Shimane Prefecture lies in the northwest of Honshu, being a part of Japan’s Chugoku region along with Hiroshima, Okayama, Tottori and Yamaguchi. As the cradle of Japan’s ancient culture, Shimane is praised as “Home of Japanese Mythology”, housing numerous historical relics like shrines and ancient castles. Besides, facing the Sea of Japan in the north and Chugoku Mountains in the south, Shimane also features charming natural landscapes.
Must-go Attractions in Shimane
Izumo Taisha Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Japan with great historical significance. No one knows the specific time of its construction. In Japanese mythology, this shrine is believed to be the meeting place of all gods every October. In practice, it enshrines the god Okuninushi, who is said to be the ruler of the ancient Izumo Province and the god of marriage. The most distinctive structure in the shrine is the 5-ton-weight shimenawa - a kind of straw rope for religious use, which is the largest of its kind in Japan.
Completed in 1611, Matsu Castle is a designated National Treasure of Japan. The Main Keep of this castle is well-preserved and is one of the only 12 remaining Main Keeps in Japan. The walls of the Main Keep are painted black and the roof resembles wings of a plover bird, giving the castle another name - the Plover Castle. From the top of Matsue Castle, it’s enjoyable to admire the scenery of the nearby Lake Shinji and Lake Nakaumi.
As the 7th largest lake in Japan, Lake Shinji is well-known for its magnificent natural beauty and abundant aquatic products. Every day the shimmering lake water in the afterglow brings a romantic, serene scenery to the city. Watching the stunning sunset by this lake can be one of the best things to do in Shimane.
Lake Shinji is connected with the Sea of Japan via Lake Nakaumi, thus it is home to a variety of both saltwater and freshwater fish, notably the “Shinjiko Shicchin” - 7 delicacies of Lake Shinji. So don’t forget to try some local seasonal cuisine.
4. Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine
Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Shimane. The mine was in use between the 16th century and the 20th century and contributed a lot to Japan’s economy. The former shafts have been preserved and now visitors can walk into the tunnel and look for the traces of the Edo period (1603-1867). The nearby mining town, Omori, is an ancient town retaining the traditional structure of Japanese village with many 200-year-old buildings.
5. Oki Islands
Situated in the Sea of Japan, Oki Islands are made up of over 180 islands and most of them are uninhabited. They were designated as a Global Geopark by UNESCO in 2013. The islands are ideal for water activities and hiking. Must-see sites include Dangyo Falls on Dogo island - the biggest island of Oki Islands, and the Candle Island - a small island to enjoy the view of “a candle-like pillar lit up by the sun” at sunset.
More Shimane Attractions to Visit
1. Tamatsukuri Onsen
Tamatsukuri Onsen is a hot spring resort in Matsue. It has a history of over 1,300 years and is one of the best hot springs in Japan. The water of the spring source is over 42 ℃ (107.6 ℉) with rich minerals and is beneficial to the skin. Skincare products made by the spring water are popular among women.
2. Adachi Museum of Art
Established in 1970 by Adachi Zenko - a merchant in Shimane, Adachi Museum of Art is home to a rich collection of Yokoyama Taikan’s artistic works and one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan. Surrounded by rural scenes, the Japanese-style garden around the museum building has been named as “the Best Garden in Japan” for 21 years. The impressive views of the combination of garden and art make this museum a unique and attractive place when visiting Shimane.
3.Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo
In this museum, visitors can know better about Izumo Taisha Shrine, the history and culture about ancient Izumo and Izumo mythologies. Located just next to the shrine, it has a large collection of bronze wares including 358 bronze swords and 39 bronze bell-shaped dotaku. Another highlight is a huge pillar of the 13th century which is considered to be a part of the main shrine of Izumo Taisha.
4. Yuushien Garden
Situated on Daikonshima Island in Lake Nakaumi, Yuushien Garden is a traditional Japanese pond garden with seasonal flowers all year round. There are various kinds of trees and flowers planted around the pond and along the stone-paved paths, making it a good choice to take a stroll and understand Japanese architectural aesthetics.
5. Inasa-no-hama Beach
Inasa-no-hama Beach is a white sandy beach lying to the west of Izumo Taisha Shrine. It is said to be the arrival place of all gods before they go to the shrine to attend the gathering every October. Near the beach there is a small island called Benten Island with a small torii gate on it. The silhouette of Benten Island at sunset shows a sacred and tranquil atmosphere.
6. Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse
With a height of 43.65 meters (143.2 ft.), Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse is the tallest lighthouse in Japan and one of the 100 most beautiful lighthouses in the world. This stone-made white lighthouse was constructed in 1903 and has become a landmark in Hinomisaki. Climb 163 steps and you will get a panoramic view of the sea and the surroundings.
