Column

Shimane Prefecture

Shimane Prefecture is home to many historical sites deeply connected to ancient Japanese history, such as Izumo Taisha and Iwami Ginzan. Its mystical atmosphere evocative of mythological worlds and landscapes woven with rich nature are its main attractions.
- LOCATION: Northwestern part of Chugoku region
- WORLD HERITAGE SITE: Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine and its Cultural Landscape
- RECOMMENDED SPOTS: Izumo Taisha, Matsue Castle, Iwami Ginzan, Lake Shinji
- MUST-TRY FOODS: Izumo soba, Shijimi clam soup, Nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch), Akaten (fried fish paste)
- LOCAL SPECIALITIES: Izumo stone lanterns, Unshu abacus, Izumo-ori textile
- About 1 hour 20 minutes by plane from TOKYO
- MASCOT: Shimanekko
(Image: Shimane Prefecture Tourism Character "Shimanekko" Permission No. 8289 from Shimane Tourism Federation)

Shimane Prefecture Tourist attraction

The place where countless gods gather, “Izumo Taisha Shrine.”

Photo: Izumo Taisha “Kagura Hall” Izumo Taisha, known as a gathering place for the gods of Japan and a focus of faith since ancient…

Chugoku Shikoku region Tradition,Culture

Enjoying the “Gods” through Dancing: Kagura.

Kagura, a form of traditional Japanese ritual and dance, is a performing art that has been practiced in Japan since ancient times. Its…

Shimane Prefecture Gourmet

Depth Hidden in Simplicity: “Izumo Soba”

In Japanese food culture, "soba" (buckwheat noodles) strongly reflects the unique characteristics of each region. Especially "Izumo So…

Shimane Prefecture Tourist attraction

World Heritage “Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine and its Cultural Landscape”

Iwami Ginzan is a silver mine with a deep history located in Shimane Prefecture. It is registered as a World Heritage Site no…

Shimane Prefecture Tourist attraction

(Day trip)Experience the Historical Romance of Matsue! Enjoy the atmosphere of a castle town and cultural experiences in a kimono.

More info and booking With a SAMURAI guide, you'll ascend to the national treasure Matsue Castle! You'll also tour the moat of th…

Shimane Prefecture Tourist attraction

(Day trip)Experience Kimono at Izumo Taisha! A journey around the traditions and nature of Izumo, the land of gods.

More info and booking Visit Izumo Taisha, the god of matchmaking, and Inasa no Hama, one of Japan's top 100 beaches, and experien…