| Ticket type | E-ticket (direct entry), E-ticket (requires redemption) |
| Attraction type | History & culture, Pop culture |
Please note that the validity period after starting to use is 7 days from the time of redemption at the first facility.
Facilities and coupons can only be experienced or used once. Please note that the same facility cannot be entered or used repeatedly.
Please note that unused facilities cannot be redeemed.
Before departure, please check the official website of each facility to confirm the business hours and closed days of the facility you wish to experience. Please be careful to avoid any delays.
To reach Shimane Prefecture, major access points include Izumo Enmusubi Airport (IZO) and Yonago Kitaro Airport (YGJ), offering flights from Tokyo and other major cities. For train travel, you can take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Okayama or Hiroshima, then transfer to a local JR line to reach key cities like Matsue or Izumo in Shimane. Highway buses also connect Shimane with major metropolitan areas across Japan.
Within Shimane Prefecture, visitors can utilize the JR San-in Line for inter-city travel along the coast, connecting major areas like Matsue, Izumo, and Hamada. Local bus services are available for reaching specific attractions not directly on train routes. For greater flexibility, especially when visiting more remote spots or multiple locations in a day, renting a car is a highly recommended option.
At Matsue Castle, a designated National Treasure, visitors can explore one of Japan's few remaining original castles. The main tower offers panoramic views of the city and Lake Shinji. Surrounding the castle is Shiomi Nawate Street, featuring preserved samurai residences, a tea house, and various museums. Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely boat tour around the castle moat, offering a unique perspective of the historic architecture.
Shimane Prefecture offers authentic cultural experiences, including traditional tea ceremonies, especially prominent in Matsue, known as 'The City of Tea.' You can participate in a formal tea ceremony at various historical houses or gardens. Kimono wearing experiences are also available, allowing visitors to rent traditional attire and stroll through historic areas like Matsue Castle town, immersing themselves in local customs.
The Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a glimpse into Japan's rich mining history. Visitors can explore the Ryugenji Mabu mine shaft, a preserved tunnel offering insight into ancient mining techniques. The historic Omori town, nestled in the valley, retains its Edo-period charm with traditional houses and temples. Pathways through the site lead to various historical ruins and scenic natural surroundings.
Shimane Prefecture boasts several scenic natural spots. Lake Shinji is famous for its stunning sunsets, visible from various viewpoints around Matsue. The coastline offers dramatic cliffs and rock formations, such as those found along the Iwami Coast. Additionally, the forested areas surrounding historical sites like Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine provide peaceful, spiritually significant natural landscapes for exploration and reflection.
When visiting Shimane, be sure to try Izumo Soba, a unique buckwheat noodle dish often served in three stacked bowls. Given its coastal location, fresh seafood is a must, including various types of local fish and seasonal delicacies like crabs. Shimane is also renowned for its sake, with numerous local breweries offering distinct varieties. Look out for traditional sweets and local agricultural products as well.
The Have Fun in Shimane 1 Week Free Pass allows you to choose and visit three of your favorite attractions from a curated list. This pass is valid for seven days, providing significant flexibility to plan your itinerary at your own pace. It enables you to combine various experiences, from historical sites like Matsue Castle to cultural activities and local dining, making it easy to tailor your exploration of Shimane.