Shimane is one of Japan’s most mythologically significant prefectures. The Izumo region is where the Japanese gods are said to gather every October, and Izumo Taisha is among the oldest and most important shrines in the country. The beautifully preserved samurai town of Tsuwano adds to Shimane’s quiet, profound character.
Top Attractions
1. Izumo Taisha
One of Japan’s oldest and most important shrines, dedicated to Okuninushi, the god of marriage and relationships. The enormous shimenawa (sacred rope) — one of the largest in Japan — and the ancient forest surrounding the shrine complex create an atmosphere of tremendous spiritual power.
2. Matsue Castle & Lafcadio Hearn
Matsue is home to one of Japan’s twelve original castles, and was where the Irish writer Lafcadio Hearn (Koizumi Yakumo) spent some of his most productive years interpreting Japan to the West. His former residence and memorial museum are fascinating.
3. Tsuwano
A tiny, perfectly preserved castle town in a mountain valley — often called “Little Kyoto of the San’in Region.” Carp swim in channels along the main street, and the hillside Taikodani Inari Shrine glows with hundreds of vermillion torii gates.
Food & Drink
Izumo Soba — dark buckwheat noodles served in stacked lacquered bowls — is Japan’s most distinctive soba style. Fresh Japan Sea seafood and Shijimi (freshwater clams from Lake Shinji) are local specialties.
Getting There
From Osaka, the Super Matsukaze limited express reaches Matsue in about 3.5 hours.
