Popular Sightseeing Tours in Shimane

Shimane Prefecture boasts rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Top recommendations include Izumo Taisha, a stage for Japanese mythology and one of Japan's most important shrines. Additionally, Matsue Castle, one of Japan's twelve remaining original castles, along with its surrounding samurai residences and Horikawa boat tour, offers a glimpse into the ancient capital's charm. For world-class garden art, Adachi Museum of Art is highly recommended. Don't miss the sunset over Lake Shinji, renowned as one of Japan's best sunset spots. The Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases Japan's past mining history.

Shimane Prefecture is very family-friendly. You can take children to Matsue Vogel Park to get up close with adorable birds and enjoy beautiful flowers. If your family enjoys manga and ghost culture, Mizuki Shigeru Road and Mizuki Shigeru Museum are full of fun, with many yokai statues to find along the way. At the Lake Shinji Nature Museum Gorone, children can learn about Lake Shinji's ecosystem through interactive exhibits. Furthermore, taking a Horikawa boat tour around Matsue Castle is a relaxing and enjoyable way for the whole family to admire the scenery along the moats.

In the San'in region, Shimane Prefecture is known for its unique culture and historical depth. If you seek spiritual cleansing, mythological exploration, or historical site visits, Shimane is an ideal choice. Here you'll find Izumo Taisha, Japan's most important ancient shrine, and Matsue Castle, with its perfectly preserved keep. Shimane also boasts the Adachi Museum of Art, hailed as Japan's finest garden, and the beautiful sunset over Lake Shinji. Compared to Tottori Prefecture, which features more dramatic natural landscapes, Shimane offers a deeper cultural and historical experience.

Cherry blossoms in Shimane Prefecture typically bloom from late March to mid-April, with the peak viewing period usually in early April. Recommended spots include Matsue Castle Park, where hundreds of cherry trees surround the ancient castle, with illuminations at night. Another great location is the Tamatsukuri Onsen area, where cherry blossoms along the hot spring town's streets blend beautifully with the onsen atmosphere. You can also enjoy cherry blossoms while admiring the lake views at Lake Shinji Park.

There are several main transportation methods from Osaka to Shimane Prefecture. The most common and convenient is by train: take the Sanyo Shinkansen from Osaka to Okayama Station, then transfer to the JR Limited Express Yakumo train to Matsue or Izumo City, which takes about 4 to 5 hours. Alternatively, you can opt for a long-distance bus, with overnight buses available directly to Matsue and Izumo, which take longer but are more economical. If you want to save time, consider taking a domestic flight from Osaka Itami Airport to Izumo Airport or Hagi-Iwami Airport, and then transfer to local transport to your destination.

For a first visit to Shimane Prefecture, a classic route themed around 'Mythology and History' is recommended. You could start your first day at Izumo Taisha, experiencing its solemn atmosphere and visiting the adjacent Shimane Prefectural Ancient Izumo Historical Museum. On the second day, head to Matsue City to explore the National Treasure Matsue Castle, take a Horikawa boat tour, and enjoy the beautiful sunset over Lake Shinji in the evening. If time permits, include the Adachi Museum of Art to experience the beauty of Japanese gardens, or explore the historical wonders of the Iwami Ginzan World Heritage site.

If you're planning a day trip to Izumo Taisha, besides visiting the solemn Izumo Taisha itself, there are many other worthwhile spots nearby. After your visit, stroll along Shinmon-dori, lined with charming shops and cafes. Then, head to the Shimane Prefectural Ancient Izumo Historical Museum to delve deeper into the history and mythology of Izumo. Not far away is Inasa-no-hama beach, where gods are said to have gathered in mythology, offering excellent sea views. The Old Taisha Station also preserves the atmosphere of the Taisho era, making it a great spot for nostalgic photos.

Shimane Prefecture's cuisine is known for its unique flavors and local ingredients. A must-try specialty is Izumo Soba noodles, which differ from regular soba. They are typically served in a 'Wariko' style, stacked in lacquered bowls, and enjoyed with various condiments. Shijimi clams from Lake Shinji are another local delicacy, used to make delicious clam soup or clam rice. The prefecture also offers abundant seafood, such as the premium fish 'Nodoguro,' which is excellent when salt-grilled or served as sushi. Various local country-style dishes made with regional ingredients are also very popular.

When planning a trip to Shimane Prefecture, consider convenience and personal needs for accommodation. Matsue City and Izumo City are major tourist hubs with more hotel options and relatively convenient transportation. If you want to experience traditional hot spring culture, Tamatsukuri Onsen or Kaike Onsen are good choices. For transportation, if you plan to visit multiple attractions or explore rural areas, renting a car offers the most flexibility and convenience. If your main activities are within Matsue, Izumo City, and surrounding major sites, make good use of local bus and rail services. To ensure smooth travel, plan your accommodation and routes in advance for better efficiency.

Shimane Prefecture's autumn is filled with rich festivals and traditional events. Every October in the lunar calendar (known as 'Kannazuki' in Japan, but 'Kamiarizuki' in the Izumo region), Izumo Taisha hosts the grand 'Kamiarizuki Festival' to welcome deities from across the country, offering a fantastic opportunity to experience the mythological atmosphere. Additionally, Matsue City and other areas hold local festivals like 'Autumn Grand Festivals' or 'Lion Dances,' showcasing local traditional culture. Autumn is also the season for viewing autumn foliage, with the gardens of Adachi Museum of Art and areas along the Fei River being excellent spots to admire the vibrant red leaves.