Japan Travel vol.03｜Shimane Full Travel Guide｜Shimane Is Japan’s “Quietest Power Move”
Shimane is where Japan’s myths and romance still breathe
Right next to Tottori, tucked away in the shadows of the San’in region, lies Shimane—a hidden treasure waiting to be found. Hard to get to? Maybe. But that’s part of the thrill.
From the spiritual pull of Izumo Taisha, to the frozen-in-time world of Iwami Ginzan, to sunsets over Lake Shinji and the prehistoric vistas of the Oki Islands—
Shimane is where quiet, concentrated Japan lives. When your modern life feels like too much, this is where you reset—mind and body.
Let RAW JAPAN be your guide through Shimane Prefecture—Japan’s myth-drenched, nature-soaked local paradise.
| What's Inside This Guide | |
|---|---|
| 🏞️ Shimane's Must-See Spots | Scenery That Stays With You—Top 4 Breathtaking Places |
| 🍽️ Local Eats | This Is Where Shimane Tastes Its Best |
| 🏨 Places to Stay | Stay Deep—5 Unique Stays in Shimane |
| 🕘 Suggested Itinerary | The Ultimate Route! 3-Day, Deep-Dive Shimane Model Plan |
Top 4 Scenic Spots in Shimane
Scenery That Stays With You—Top 4 Breathtaking Places
1. Izumo Taisha
Japan’s Ultimate Spiritual Matchmaking Spot
Izumo Taisha is the grand center of “Izumo faith,” enshrining Ōkuninushi no Ōkami—the deity of connection and relationships. A towering 24-meter shimenawa rope welcomes visitors into a sacred atmosphere filled with mythology. Don’t miss the four-clap ritual (instead of the usual two) or the mysterious Yakumo-yama behind the main shrine.
The shrine grounds also feature stylish Japanese cafés and craft shops, making it the perfect mix of spiritual and sightseeing. It’s a must for couples, history buffs, and anyone looking to feel Japan’s ancient power.
| Name | Izumo Taisha |
| Admission | Free (Main grounds). Treasure Hall: ¥300 adults / ¥150 students |
| Rituals & Offerings | Charms & ema: ¥500–2,000 / Ceremonies: ¥5,000–10,000 (depending on type) |
| Address | 195 Kizuki Higashi, Taisha-cho, Izumo, Shimane Google Map |
| Website | Izumo Taisha Official Site |
2. Iwami Ginzan
A Time-Slip into Edo—Now with Sustainable Travel Vibes
Once the source of one-third of the world’s silver, Iwami Ginzan is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan’s top “ethical travel” spots. The main Ōmori district is lined with preserved samurai homes and Edo-era architecture—yes, it feels like walking through a movie set.
Start at the Iwami Ginzan World Heritage Center, then hop on a bus to Ōmori and rent an electric bike to reach the Ryūgenji Mabu tunnel. The 3km ride is scenic, but hilly—go electric if you can.
These days, Iwami’s legacy of eco-conscious mining has put it back in the spotlight as a future-forward travel destination.
| Start Point | Iwami Ginzan World Heritage Center |
| Hours | 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM) |
| Closed | Last Tuesday of each month & New Year holidays |
| Admission | Adults: ¥400 / Kids: ¥200 / Foreign Visitors: ¥300 (Kids: ¥150) Discounts for groups of 20+ |
| Address | 159-3 Omori-cho I, Oda, Shimane Google Map |
| Website | Iwami Ginzan Center |
3. Lake Shinji
“Sunset Japan” Hits Different Here
Lake Shinji is a brackish lake nestled between Izumo and Matsue, famous for its legendary sunsets that light up the sky and water in dramatic hues. Recognized as one of Japan’s Top 100 Sunset Spots, it’s ideal for romantic walks along the promenade or a golden-hour photo session.
For a unique experience, hop on the “Hakuchou-go” cruise boat—it glides across the lake near Yomegashima Island as the sun dips into the water. Museums, hot springs, and gourmet spots surround the lake, making it an all-in-one destination.
| Cruise | Lake Shinji Sightseeing Boat “Hakuchou-go” |
| Departure | Pier 1 or 2 (Matsue Port) |
| Price | Adults ¥2,000 / Kids ¥1,000 |
| Duration | ~60 minutes (Sunset Cruise available) |
| Season | March–November (Winter requires reservation) |
| Address | 150-7 Higashi Asahicho, Matsue, Shimane Google Map |
| Website | Hakuchou-go Official Site |
4. Oki Islands
A Living Museum of Earth Formations—and Island Time
Located about 60km north of Shimane’s mainland (3–4 hours by ferry), the Oki Islands are a UNESCO Global Geopark with otherworldly landscapes born from volcanic activity.
One of the most popular activities is riding the “Amanbow” semi-submersible tour boat in Ama Town, on Nakanoshima Island. Peek through underwater windows into a crystal-clear marine world. There are also night tours for viewing bioluminescent plankton, interactive cultural programs with locals, and even an eco-stay at the sustainable hotel Entô.
This isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey through Earth itself.
| Tour | Amanbow Semi-Submarine Cruise |
| Fee | Adults ¥2,500 / Kids ¥1,200 |
| Tour Type | Day-trip marine activity |
| Duration | ~50 minutes |
| Booking Deadline | 3 days before |
| Address | 1365-5 Fukui, Ama-cho, Oki-gun, Shimane Google Map |
| Website | Amanbow Experience |
Top 4 Eats in Shimane
This Is Where Shimane Tastes Its Best
1. Restaurant Seiyouken (Matsue)
Retro-Style “Katsu Rice” from the Original Creator
Established in 1932, this beloved Western-style diner has been a local icon for over 90 years. Its signature dish is “Katsu Rice”—pork cutlet over white rice smothered in a house-made demi-glace sauce that’s slow-simmered for three weeks. The deep, rich flavor is unforgettable. Their old-school menu also features omurice, pork steaks, and beef stew.
| Name | Restaurant Seiyouken |
| Hours | 11:30–14:00 / 17:30–19:30 |
| Closed | Sundays |
| Budget | ¥1,000–2,000 |
| Address | 111 Katahara-cho, Matsue, Shimane (15 min walk from Matsue Station) Google Map |
| Payment | Credit cards (VISA, JCB, Diners, DC, AMEX, MasterCard), QR code (PayPay), No e-money |
| Website | Seiyouken – Hitosara |
2. Izumo Soba Arakiya (Izumo)
Over 240 Years of Traditional Cold Soba
Just steps from Izumo Taisha, this historic soba restaurant has been serving up soba since the Edo period. Their star is the “Warigo Soba”—cold buckwheat noodles served in three-tiered lacquered bowls. The bold aroma and chew of the soba, plus the fun way of adding toppings as you go, makes it a cultural experience. The wooden architecture adds to the charm.
| Name | Izumo Soba Arakiya |
| Hours | 11:00–16:00 (Ends when noodles sell out) |
| Closed | Wednesdays (Open on holidays) |
| Budget | ¥1,000–2,000 |
| Address | 409-2 Kizuki Higashi, Taisha-cho, Izumo (7 min drive from Izumo Taisha-mae Station) Google Map |
| Payment | Credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, JCB), QR (PayPay), e-money (Suica, WAON, iD) |
| Website | Arakiya Official Site |
3. Fisherman’s Shack “Mugiho” (Matsue)
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Saba Shabu + Sea-to-Table Dining
Just a 5-minute walk from Matsue Station, this cozy seafood izakaya is known for one thing: Saba Shabu. It’s fresh mackerel dipped in bubbling hot broth—an invention by the owner and a must-try. Other highlights include grilled blackthroat perch, oysters, and local sashimi platters. Seating is limited, so reservations are highly recommended.
| Name | Fisherman’s Shack “Mugiho” |
| Hours | 18:00–22:00 (L.O. 21:15) |
| Closed | Sundays (with occasional closures) |
| Budget | ¥5,000–6,000 |
| Address | 188 Teramachi, Matsue, Shimane Google Map |
| Payment | Credit cards accepted / QR payment availability may vary / No e-money |
| Website | Mugiho Official Site |
4. BBQ House Château Misen (Izumo)
Shimane Wagyu Meets Wine—DIY BBQ Heaven
Located just 5 minutes from Izumo Taisha by car, this European-style BBQ restaurant sits inside the Shimane Winery. Grill Shimane Wagyu or Oki beef at your table, pair it with regional wine, and enjoy a lush lunch or dinner in a cozy wooden building. Wine tastings and factory tours are also available, and English menus make it tourist-friendly.
| Name | BBQ House Château Misen |
| Hours | Weekdays 11:00–17:30 / Weekends & holidays 11:00–18:30 (Last order 30 min before close) |
| Closed | Check calendar (based on winery operations) |
| Budget | ¥2,000–5,000 |
| Address | 264-2 Hishine, Taisha-cho, Izumo, inside Shimane Winery Google Map |
| Payment | Credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, JCB, AMEX, Diners), e-money (Suica, Edy, WAON), QR (PayPay, Rakuten Pay, d-barai, au PAY) |
| Website | Shimane Winery Official Site |
Top 5 Places to Stay in Shimane
Stay Deep—5 Unique Stays in Shimane
1. HOTEL THE CLIFF (Izumo)
Luxury on the Edge—Where the Ocean Meets the Sky
Perched atop the cliffs of Hinomisaki, this adults-only luxury hotel has just 8 rooms, all with full ocean views. Whether you're soaking in your private jacuzzi or steaming in a Finnish-style sauna, it’s about owning the moment—and the horizon. Dinner is a reservation-only affair, featuring refined local cuisine. Children under 13 not allowed, keeping the vibe serene and mature.
| Name | IZUMO HOTEL THE CLIFF |
| Check-in | From 15:00 |
| Check-out | 11:00 |
| Address | 1870 Hisamura, Taki-cho, Izumo, Shimane Google Map |
| Languages Spoken | Japanese / English |
| Website | HOTEL THE CLIFF Official Site |
2. Minamikan (Matsue / Lake Shinji Onsen)
Where Poets Slept—Retro Vibes & Lakeside Views
Overlooking the serene Lake Shinji, Minamikan is a historic inn that’s hosted countless literary figures like Yosano Akiko. The tranquil garden, classic architecture, and signature sea bream rice make this stay feel like stepping into a novel. Enjoy an onsen bath with a lake view and feast on refined kaiseki cuisine steeped in tradition.
| Name | Minamikan |
| Check-in | From 15:00 |
| Check-out | 11:00 |
| Address | 14 Suetsugu-honmachi, Matsue, Shimane Google Map |
| Languages Spoken | Japanese / English |
| Website | Minamikan Official Site |
3. Chorakuen (Matsue / Tamatsukuri Onsen)
Garden Paradise + Giant Mixed Bath + Crab Season Bonus
In the heart of Tamatsukuri Onsen, Chorakuen boasts a stunning Japanese garden, private open-air baths, and the iconic “Ryugu-no-Yu”—one of Japan’s largest mixed-gender outdoor baths. Winter brings the ultimate bonus: fresh snow crab kaiseki feasts. From families to friend groups, this place is a cozy and traditional soak-and-feast haven.
| Name | Yunosuke no Yado Chorakuen |
| Check-in | From 15:00 |
| Check-out | 10:00 |
| Address | 323 Tamayu-cho Tamatsukuri, Matsue, Shimane Google Map |
| Languages Spoken | Japanese / English |
| Website | Chorakuen Official Site |
4. Entô (Ama Town, Oki Islands)
Eco-Hotel in a Geopark—Where Nature Is the Amenity
On Nakanoshima Island in the Oki Archipelago, Entô is a sleek, modern hotel fused into the UNESCO Global Geopark. Every room opens to a panoramic ocean view, like a living framed canvas. Activities include fire pits, exhibitions, local storytelling, and sustainable dining experiences using island-grown ingredients. If you want to stay somewhere that literally breathes the Earth—this is it.
| Name | Entô |
| Check-in | From 15:00 |
| Check-out | 10:00 (BASE), 11:00 (NEST building) |
| Address | 1375-1 Fukui, Ama-cho, Oki-gun, Shimane Google Map |
| Languages Spoken | Japanese / English |
| Website | Entô Official Site |
5. NIPPONIA Izumo Taisha Monzenmachi (Izumo)
Stay in a Renovated Clinic + French Cuisine by Izumo Taisha
Just 5 minutes from the shrine, this boutique hotel was once a medical clinic—now reborn into a luxurious stay with only 6 rooms. The fusion of warm wood interiors and refined Japanese aesthetics makes for an elegant yet homey experience. Dinner is exclusive to guests: a French course meal made with local Shimane ingredients. History, design, and gastronomy in one.
| Name | NIPPONIA Izumo Taisha Monzenmachi |
| Check-in | From 15:00 |
| Check-out | 10:00 (May vary by plan) |
| Address | 1359-1 Kizuki Minami, Taisha-cho, Izumo, Shimane Google Map |
| Languages Spoken | Japanese |
| Website | NIPPONIA Official Site |
RAW JAPAN Model Itinerary
The Ultimate Route! 3-Day Deep-Dive Shimane Plan
From gods to silver mines, lakeside sunsets to island adventures—
Shimane isn’t just a trip. It’s a slow, deep immersion into a Japan that lingers.
This model plan takes you from spiritual Izumo to time-warped Iwami Ginzan, through serene Lake Shinji and onward to the untouched Oki Islands. It may seem like a lot—but by the time it ends, you’ll be fully in love with this quiet corner of Japan.
💡 This itinerary is geared toward active travelers. For a slower pace, feel free to extend time at each location.
DAY 1｜Myths, History & Deep Flavors
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| 10:00 | Arrive at Izumo Airport → Transfer to Izumo Taisha (approx. 40 min by car/bus) |
| 11:00 | Visit Izumo Taisha & café break on Kamimichi Street |
| 13:00 | Lunch at Izumo Soba Arakiya with famous “Warigo Soba” |
| 14:30 | Drive to Iwami Ginzan and Ōmori Town (approx. 1 hr) |
| 15:30 | Explore Ryūgenji Mabu tunnel and historical townscape (e-bike rental available) |
| 17:30 | Check in at your lodging (HOTEL THE CLIFF, NIPPONIA, etc.) |
| 19:00 | Enjoy a locally-sourced creative dinner or premium BBQ with Izumo beef |
DAY 2｜Lakeside Serenity, Onsen, and a Ferry to the Edge
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| 08:00 | Depart Izumo for Lake Shinji area (approx. 1 hr drive) |
| 09:30 | Cruise the lake on the Hakuchou-go sightseeing boat |
| 10:30 | Walk around Matsue Castle & Lafcadio Hearn Memorial Museum |
| 12:30 | Lunch and day-use bath at Chorakuen in Tamatsukuri Onsen |
| 15:00 | Drive to Shichirui or Sakaiminato Port (approx. 1 hr) |
| 16:00 | Take the high-speed ferry to Nakanoshima, Oki (approx. 1 hr) |
| 17:30 | Check in at Entô |
| 19:00 | Dinner with island ingredients + firepit, exhibits, and community activities at Entô |
DAY 3｜Island Nature, Cruises & Local Encounters
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| 07:00 | Beach walk or breakfast + sustainable learning at Entô |
| 09:00 | Cruise the Oki seas on the Amanbow Submarine Boat |
| 10:30 | Explore the island by car: Candle Rock Viewpoint, local shrines, volcanic cliffs |
| 12:30 | Lunch at a local café or diner |
| 14:00 | Ferry back to the mainland |
| 16:00 | Depart from Izumo or Yonago Airport |
Travel Tips & Local Know-How
⚠️ Renting a car is strongly recommended!
Public transport in Shimane is limited, especially around Iwami Ginzan and the Oki Islands. Driving saves time and opens up your schedule.
Note: International visitors must bring an International Driving Permit.
Car Rental Options in Shimane
⚠️ Book ferries to the Oki Islands in advance!
There are limited sailings for both regular and high-speed ferries. Same-day tickets may sell out.
Oki Kisen Ferry Official Site
⚠️ Watch for early closing times
Many shops and restaurants close between 5–6 PM, and nighttime options can be scarce—especially in rural areas. Plan accordingly if you want souvenirs or café stops!
⚠️ Check for winter closures and road conditions
From December to February, certain cruises and mountain routes may be closed or restricted due to snow. Check weather & road status before heading out.
⚠️ English isn’t widely spoken everywhere
Some tourist sites offer English brochures, but small inns and restaurants might not speak English.
We recommend having Google Translate or a phrasebook app ready.
RAW JAPAN Comment
Shimane is where myth, history, and nature converge—not just visually, but spiritually.
You don’t just see Shimane. You absorb it.
Whether you’re praying at a sacred shrine, walking the paths of old silver mines, cruising at sunset, or feeling the salty breeze of a volcanic island—
each experience connects to something deeper than sightseeing.
It’s a place that doesn’t shout, but stays with you. A slow-burning spark that makes you quietly say:
“I want to come back.”
This article was independently created by the RAW JAPAN editorial team. There are no paid promotions or sponsorships involved.
Prices listed are current as of publication and may change. Please check official websites for the latest details.
Images are for illustrative purposes. Actual dishes, presentation, and portions may vary.
Foreign travelers may be subject to extra charges like lodging taxes (approx. ¥200–1,000/night). Please confirm with your accommodation.
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