Welcome to Japan’s best-kept secret, Shimane! This prefecture is situated facing the Sea of Japan in the Chugoku region. Sparsely populated, the rural traditions and unspoiled landscapes remain unchanged, thanks to the efforts in preserving the region’s cultural heritage. There are various legends and folklores found everywhere in Shimane. It is said that Shimane is the place where Japanese gods gather to hold annual meetings. During the 10th lunar month (October or November), it is believed that all the gods of the Shinto religion—some eight million—leave their own shrines and head to Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine in Shimane. Thus, Shimane earned the name “The Land of Gods.”
Destinations
Three areas make up Shimane – Izumo in the East, Iwami in the West, and the Oki Islands in the Sea of Japan. Touristic highlights include Matsue Castle, Izumo Taisha Shrine, the World Heritage Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, and one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens, Adachi Art Museum.
Matsue
Shimane’s largest city and a former castle town
Izumo
Site of Izumo Taisha, Japan’s oldest shrine
Tsuwano
Stunning samurai district with pleasant atmosphere
Iwami Ginzan
A historic silver mine
We arrange a wide array of meal choices for you, from Japanese traditional set meals, all you can eat, to local and seasonal specialties. Join us in exploring the taste of Japan!
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Different regions have their own traditional recipes and agricultural farming system. Many of the regional dishes can only be tasted in the original area they came from.
Shimane Shijimi
Shimane shijimi are freshwater clams from Lake Shinji. What makes the shijimi clams here special is that they are of the variety called yamato shijimi which is distant for its black shells and being larger in size. Shimane shijimi are loaded with minerals, and they reportedly also cleanse your liver, all while tasting delicious. They are often used in shijimi miso soup, a traditional hangover remedy.
Izumo Soba
This local dish refers to long, chewy noodles made from fresh buckwheat flour and covered or dipped in a soy sauce and fish stock broth. In comparison to standard Japanese soba, these noodles have a darker appearance. It is uniquely prepared into three lacquer bowls with toppings served separately so you can add as much extra flavour as you wish.
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Experience
Whether this is your first time visiting, or returning, make sure to participate in these unique activities, that cannot be done elsewhere!
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Coming Soon
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Recommended Hotels
Never miss out good deals on these strategic and well known hotels. Contact us for more information!
MASCOS HOTEL Masuda Onsen
Green Rich Hotel Hamada Ekimae
Dormy Inn Izumo
Shimane Hamada Washington Hotel Plaza
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More Ideas
Need ideas for your trip? Click on below and find the right customised tour for your group!