Shimane Travel Recommendations

Shimane Prefecture is located in the Chugoku region of western Honshu island in Japan. It is a prefecture steeped in history and mythology, with many ancient sites and traditions still present today. The prefecture has a population of around 700,000 people and covers an area of 6,708.24 square kilometers. The capital city of Shimane is Matsue, which is located in the central part of the prefecture.

How to Get to Shimane from Tokyo

The easiest and fastest way to get to Shimane Prefecture from Tokyo is by taking a domestic flight from Haneda Airport to Izumo Airport, which takes approximately 90 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the bullet train (Shinkansen) from Tokyo Station to Okayama Station, and then transfer to the JR Yakumo Line to Matsue Station, which takes approximately 5 hours. There are also highway buses that run from Tokyo Station to Matsue Station, which take approximately 12 hours.

Best Season to Visit Shimane

The best time to visit Shimane Prefecture is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is mild and comfortable. During these seasons, the cherry blossoms and autumn leaves are in full bloom, making for beautiful scenery. However, each season has its unique attractions, such as summer festivals, winter snow activities, and autumn harvest events.

Must-See Places in Shimane

Matsue Castle

This 17th-century castle is one of the few remaining original castles in Japan and is also known as the “Black Castle” due to its dark appearance.　

Izumo Taisha

This ancient Shinto shrine is one of the oldest and most important shrines in Japan, known for its connection to marriage and matchmaking.

Adachi Museum of Art

This museum features a beautiful garden that has been named the best garden in Japan for 16 consecutive years by the Journal of Japanese Gardening.

Lake Shinji

This large freshwater lake is known for its beautiful sunsets and is also a great spot for fishing and birdwatching.

Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine

This UNESCO World Heritage site is a former silver mine that operated for over 400 years and is now a popular tourist destination.

Yunotsu Onsen

This historic hot spring town is known for its beautiful traditional architecture and relaxing hot springs.

Mihonoseki Lighthouse

This lighthouse is located on the tip of the Shimane Peninsula and offers stunning views of the Sea of Japan.

Tamatsukuri Onsen

This hot spring town is one of the oldest in Japan and is known for its high-quality hot spring water and beautiful surroundings.

Hirata Honjin Memorial Museum

This museum is housed in a former inn that was used by samurai and daimyo during the Edo period and provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of the time.

Oki Islands

This group of islands is located in the Sea of Japan and is known for its beautiful natural scenery and unique cultural traditions.

Cuisines you can enjoy in Shimane

Izumo Soba

Izumo soba is a type of soba noodle that is made from buckwheat flour and has a unique texture and flavor. The noodles are often served cold with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, dashi, and other ingredients. Izumo soba is a local specialty in Shimane Prefecture, and there are many restaurants that serve this dish throughout the area. The soba noodles are usually handmade and are served with a variety of toppings, such as grated daikon radish, green onions, and tempura.

Recommended Accommodations in Shimane

Iwamiginzan

Iwamiginzan is a traditional ryokan located in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture. The ryokan features Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats and futon beds, as well as a traditional Japanese garden and hot springs.

Mizunomori:

izunomori is a luxury ryokan located in Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture. The ryokan features Japanese-style rooms with private hot springs, as well as a restaurant serving local cuisine and a traditional Japanese garden.

Hotel Kasuien Minami

Hotel Kasuien Minami is a luxury hotel located in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture. The hotel features a range of rooms and suites with modern amenities, as well as a hot spring bath, spa, and a restaurant serving Japanese and Western cuisine.

Naniwa Issui

Naniwa Issui is a traditional ryokan located in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture. The ryokan features Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats and futon beds, as well as a traditional Japanese garden and hot springs.

Tamatsukuri Grand Hotel Choseikaku

Tamatsukuri Grand Hotel Choseikaku is a luxury hotel located in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture. The hotel features a range of rooms and suites with modern amenities, as well as hot springs, a spa, and a restaurant serving local cuisine.

Yunokawa Prince Hotel Nagisatei

Yunokawa Prince Hotel Nagisatei is a luxury hotel located in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture. The hotel features a range of rooms and suites with modern amenities, as well as hot springs, a spa, and a restaurant serving local cuisine.

Ginzan Onsen Fujiya

Ginzan Onsen Fujiya is a luxury ryokan located in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture. The ryokan features Japanese-style rooms with private hot springs, as well as a restaurant serving local cuisine and a traditional Japanese garden.

Konya

Konya is a traditional ryokan located in Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture. The ryokan features Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats and futon beds, as well as a traditional Japanese garden and hot springs.

Matsunaga

Matsunaga is a luxury ryokan located in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture. The ryokan features Japanese-style rooms with private hot springs, as well as a restaurant serving local cuisine and a traditional Japanese garden.

Conclusion

Shimane Prefecture is a beautiful and historic destination that is well worth a visit for those interested in Japanese history and culture. Whether you are interested in ancient shrines and castles or beautiful gardens and hot springs, Shimane Prefecture has something for everyone. With easy access from Tokyo and a wide range of attractions to choose from, Shimane is a great destination for both first-time visitors to Japan and seasoned travelers.