Shimane Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food to eat, and tips for traveling safely in Shimane, Japan.
- Introduction to Shimane
- List of Places to Visit in Shimane
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Shimane
- Best Things to Do in Shimane: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Shimane
- Food and Drink Scene of Shimane
- Where to Stay in Shimane: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Shimane: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Shimane
- Best Time to Visit Shimane
- Do’s and Don’ts of Shimane
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Shimane: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Shimane
- Where to Go Next from Shimane: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Shimane
Located in Chugoku, in Japan, Shimane is a picturesque destination that offers a unique blend of history, nature, and culture. Known for its stunning landscapes, shrines, and hot springs, Shimane is a hidden gem that attracts travelers from all over the world.
List of Places to Visit in Shimane
If you’re planning a trip to Shimane, here are some of the top places to add to your itinerary:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Adachi Museum of Art: Known for its stunning gardens and collection of modern Japanese art, the Adachi Museum of Art is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Shimane.
- Izumo-taisha Shrine: One of the oldest and most important shrines in Japan, the Izumo-taisha Shrine is a popular destination for pilgrimage and worship.
- Matsue Castle: Also known as the “black castle,” Matsue Castle is an impressive feudal-era structure that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
- Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo: This museum is dedicated to the ancient history of the Izumo region and features exhibits on local folklore, pottery, and art.
Natural Attractions of Shimane: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Lake Shinji: This large freshwater lake provides stunning views of Mt. Daisen and is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and bird watching.
- Tamatsukuri Onsen: Known for its healing and therapeutic waters, Tamatsukuri Onsen is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Shimane.
- Nima Sand Museum: This unique museum features a collection of sand from all over the world and showcases sand sculptures created by local artists and craftspeople.
- Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine: The Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the best-preserved examples of a traditional Japanese mining town.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Shimane
For those who love adventure and the outdoors, Shimane offers plenty of hiking and biking opportunities.
- Oku-Izumo Cycling Course: This 150-kilometer cycling route takes you through scenic countryside, mountains, and valleys.
- Mt. Sanbe Hiking Trail: A 10-kilometer trail to the summit of Mt. Sanbe provides stunning views of the surrounding area.
- Mt. Daisen Hiking Trail: A popular destination for hikers, the Mt. Daisen Hiking Trail offers a challenging 10-kilometer trek to the top of the mountain.
Best Things to Do in Shimane: Activities and Tours
In addition to hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities and tours to enjoy in Shimane.
- Sake Brewery Tours: Shimane is known for its high-quality sake, and many local breweries offer tours and tastings.
- Sea Kayaking: Explore the Sea of Japan and the rocky coastal landscapes of Shimane by sea kayak.
- Samurai Experience: Dress up in traditional samurai armor and experience what it was like to be a warrior during Japan’s feudal era.
- Izumo Taisha Shrine Tours: Learn about Japan’s Shinto religion and the significance of the Izumo Taisha Shrine by taking a guided tour.
Week-Long Itinerary for Shimane
Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Shimane:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Izumo-Taisha Shrine, Shimane Art Museum |
| 2 | Matsue Castle, Horikawa Pleasure Boat Ride |
| 3 | Tamatsukuri Onsen, Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine |
| 4 | Mt. Sanbe Hike or Oku-Izumo Cycling Course |
| 5 | Nima Sand Museum, Sea Kayaking |
| 6 | Adachi Museum of Art, Samurai Experience |
| 7 | Relaxation in Sake Brewery or at Lake Shinji |
Food and Drink Scene of Shimane
Shimane is known for its delicious food and drinks. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Izumo Soba: This traditional buckwheat noodle dish is one of Shimane’s most famous foods.
- Sanuki Udon: Shimane’s version of this popular Japanese dish features thicker noodles and a unique sauce.
- Sekihan: A sticky rice dish often served during special occasions like festivals and weddings.
Local Beverages
- Shimane Sake: Shimane is known for producing some of the best sake in Japan.
- Shimane Beer: A local microbrewery produces a range of unique and flavorful beers.
- Green Tea: Shimane’s green tea is famous for its rich flavor and aroma.
Where to Stay in Shimane: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly hostel, Shimane has plenty of options for accommodation.
- Matsue Excel Hotel Tokyu: Conveniently located near Matsue Castle, this hotel offers stunning views of Lake Shinji.
- Tamatsukuri Grand Hotel Choseikaku: This traditional ryokan is known for its hot springs and delicious meals.
- Hostel & Cafe Washu Highland: This budget-friendly option offers clean and comfortable dorms and private rooms.
What to Buy in Shimane: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home, here are some recommendations:
- Izumo Yaki Pottery: This traditional style pottery is handcrafted in the Izumo region and features beautiful designs.
- Shimane Sake: Bring home a bottle or two of Shimane’s famous sake.
- Matsue Wagashi: These traditional Japanese sweets are made with local ingredients and come in a variety of flavors.
Local Culture and Customs of Shimane
Shimane is known for its rich cultural heritage, and there are many customs and traditions to be aware of when visiting.
- Shinto Shrines: Shinto is the traditional religion of Japan, and Shimane is home to many important shrines and temples.
- Tea Ceremony: The tea ceremony is an important cultural practice in Japan, and there are many opportunities to experience it in Shimane.
- Local Festivals: Shimane hosts many festivals throughout the year, where you can experience traditional music, food, and dance.
Best Time to Visit Shimane
The best time to visit Shimane is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the scenery is beautiful. Summer can be hot and humid, and winter can be cold and snowy.
Do’s and Don’ts of Shimane
Here are some helpful do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Shimane:
Do:
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Take off your shoes when entering someone’s home or a traditional ryokan.
- Try local foods and drinks.
Don’t:
- Take photos inside shrines or temples unless it is permitted.
- Leave chopsticks standing upright in a bowl of rice.
- Tip waitstaff or service workers.
Safety and Health
Safety in Shimane
Shimane is a safe destination with low levels of crime. However, it’s always a good idea to take basic precautions to stay safe, such as being aware of your surroundings and valuables.
Health in Shimane
Shimane has a high quality of healthcare, and there are many hospitals and clinics throughout the region. It’s also a good idea to have travel insurance in case of medical emergencies.
Getting to Shimane: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Shimane
The closest airports to Shimane are Izumo Airport and Yonago Kitaro Airport.
Bus Stations Near Shimane
There are several bus stations in Shimane, including Izumo Station, Matsue Station, and Yasugi Station.
Other Options
There are also train and ferry options for getting to Shimane.
How to Get Around in Shimane
The best way to get around Shimane is by car or public transportation. Rental cars are available at most airports and major train stations, and there are also bus and train options available.
Where to Go Next from Shimane: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
If you’re looking to explore more of Japan, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:
- Hiroshima: Just a few hours away by train, Hiroshima is known for its history, culture, and food.
- Okayama: This vibrant city is known for its beautiful gardens, museums, and shopping.
- Miyajima Island: Located just off the coast of Hiroshima, Miyajima Island is known for its beautiful scenery and famous torii gate.
- Kyoto: This historic city is home to some of Japan’s most famous temples, shrines, and gardens.
Conclusion
Shimane is a beautiful and unique destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, culture, or outdoor adventure, Shimane has it all. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in Shimane, Japan.
