Exploring Japan’s Hidden Gem: A Journey Through Shimane (YouTube link)
Shimane Prefecture, on Japan's western coast, is a hidden gem brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. From ancient shrines and castles to scenic wonders, relaxing hot springs, and museums like the Adachi Museum of Art, Shoji Ueda Museum of Photography and Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo, it offers an unforgettable journey through Japan's past and present. Let's explore its must-visit spots!
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| Click here for an interactive Shimane map on Google MyMaps |
Rank | Destination | # of Stars | # of Google Reviews | Weighted Score |
1 | Izumo Taisha | 4.6 | 29,815 | 1 |
2 | Adachi Museum of Art | 4.5 | 14,590 | 0.685 |
2 | Yushien Garden | 4.5 | 14,590 | 0.685 |
4 | Matsue Castle | 4.4 | 14,313 | 0.671 |
5 | Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo | 4.4 | 3,467 | 0.452 |
6 | Shoji Ueda Museum of Photography | 4.4 | 876 | 0.4 |
6 | Saginoyusou | 4.5 | 433 | 0.4 |
8 | Former Samurai Residence | 4.1 | 1,177 | 0.38 |
9 | Yonago Waterbird Sanctuary | 4.2 | 292 | 0.371 |
10 | Eshima Ohashi Bridge | 4 | 704 | 0.362 |
11 | Ranpu no Yu | 3.9 | 998 | 0.359 |
Top Places to Visit in Shimane
This comprehensive guide aims to help travelers plan a vibrant and enjoyable fall trip to Shimane, highlighting the season’s beauty, activities, and culinary delights.
1. Izumo Taisha 4.6 ⭐(29,815):
- Ancient Legacy: Often regarded as Japan’s oldest shrine, Izumo Taisha has roots dating back to the early 700s, as recorded in the nation’s oldest chronicles.
- Mythological Significance: The shrine is deeply tied to Japan’s creation mythology, once ruled by a powerful ancient clan and central to the country’s spiritual heritage.
- Sacred Deity: Enshrines Okuninushi no Okami, the deity of good relationships and marriage, revered for his role in shaping Japan’s land and destiny.
- Serene Atmosphere: Nestled in Izumo’s tranquil landscapes, the shrine’s grand architecture and peaceful surroundings make it a spiritual retreat steeped in tradition.
- Grand Entrance: The approach to the shrine begins at a towering torii gate, symbolizing the sacred transition into the shrine’s domain.
- Vibrant Shopping Street: Lined with stores and restaurants, the street offers local goods, souvenirs, and refreshments before reaching the shrine.
2. Adachi Museum of Art 4.5 ⭐ (14,590):
- Visionary Origins: Established in 1970 by Adachi Zenko, inspired by his love for Japanese art and gardens.
- Cultural Haven: Showcases a remarkable collection of Japanese art alongside a stunning landscape.
- Acclaimed Garden: Recognized as Japan’s best garden annually since 2003, celebrated for its beauty and design.
- Seasonal Scenery: Offers ever-changing views throughout the year, visible only from the museum building.
- Expansive Collection: Features around 1,300 twentieth-century artworks, with seasonal rotations for fresh perspectives.
- Artistic Legacy: Hosts a dedicated exhibit of paintings by the renowned artist Yokoyama Taikan.
- Ceramic Elegance: Displays a curated selection of ceramics, highlighting traditional craftsmanship.
3. Yushien Garden 4.5 ⭐ (14,590):
- Exquisite Peonies: Yushien Garden is renowned for its breathtaking peony flowers, which bloom in vibrant colors and create a stunning seasonal spectacle.
- Serene Landscapes: Designed in traditional Japanese style, the garden features picturesque ponds, waterfalls, and carefully manicured greenery that evoke a sense of tranquility.
- Year-Round Beauty: While famous for its peonies, Yushien offers captivating scenery throughout the year, with seasonal blooms and illuminated displays enhancing its charm.
- Indoor Peony Garden: A unique feature, the indoor peony garden allows visitors to admire these delicate flowers even outside their natural blooming season.
- Cultural Significance: The garden embodies traditional Japanese aesthetics and horticultural artistry, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
4. Matsue Castle 4.4 ⭐(14,313):
- Historic Legacy: One of Japan’s few surviving original castles, Matsue Castle has endured fires, earthquakes, and Meiji-era demolitions, preserving its rich feudal history.
- Striking Architecture: Nicknamed the "black castle" for its dark, imposing exterior, it stands as a formidable landmark atop a hill, surrounded by sturdy walls and a moat.
- Samurai Heritage: Completed in 1611, the castle was later controlled by the Matsudaira clan, relatives of the ruling Tokugawa shogunate, securing its place in Japanese history.
- Timeless Preservation: Though it never saw battle, careful renovations in the 1950s ensured that its beauty and historical significance remained intact.
- Cultural Exploration: Inside, a museum showcases period weapons, artifacts, and samurai history, offering a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.
- Scenic Moat Cruises: Visitors can experience the castle’s surroundings from a traditional riverboat, gliding through the peaceful Horikawa River while learning its stories.
5. Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo 4.4 ⭐(3,467)
- Ancient Architectural Mysteries: Showcases the remains of a massive pillar, fueling speculation about the shrine’s ancient construction, which some records suggest once stood at a towering 48 meters.
- Mythology and Heritage: Highlights the evolution of Izumo Taisha, revealing the sacred traditions and the people who shaped its legacy.
- Treasures of the Past: Houses an extensive collection of artifacts, including bronze swords, bells, and Japan’s only complete version of the *Izumo no Kuni Fudoki*, chronicling the myths and history of Izumo Province.
- Engaging Exhibitions: In addition to its permanent displays, the museum hosts special exhibitions, further enriching visitors' understanding of Japan’s cultural heritage.
6. Shoji Ueda Museum of Photography 4.4 ⭐(876)
- Celebration of a Visionary: Showcases the works of Shoji Ueda, a world-renowned photographer known for his surreal and innovative compositions.
- Architectural Masterpiece: Designed by Shin Takamatsu, the museum itself is an artistic marvel, blending avant-garde design with breathtaking views of Mt. Daisen.
- Extensive Collection: Houses around 12,000 photographs, offering a deep dive into Ueda’s unique style and contributions to modern photography.
- Interactive Experience: Visitors can engage with photography through hands-on exhibits, including a giant camera obscura that projects real-time images.
- Scenic Surroundings: Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Tottori, the museum provides a tranquil setting that enhances the artistic experience
7. Saginoyusou 4.5 ⭐(433)
- Day-Trip Bathing: Public baths available for 1,000 yen (adults) and 400 yen (children).
- Hours: 12:30–15:00 (reception until 14:00) & 18:00–20:30 (reception until 19:30).
- Private Baths: Choose from *Siratuyu* (indoor) or *Iwatuyu* (open-air rock bath).
- Fee: 1,000 yen (adults), 400 yen (children) + 1,000 yen private use fee.
- Duration: 50 minutes, available from 12:30–15:00 (reception until 14:00).
- Reservation Policy: No advance bookings—reserve at the front desk on the day.
- Holiday Closures: May be closed during Golden Week, Obon, New Year, and other long holidays.
8. Samurai District 4.1 ⭐(1,177):
- Historic Legacy: One of Japan’s few surviving original castles, Matsue Castle has endured fires, earthquakes, and Meiji-era demolitions, preserving its rich feudal history.
- Striking Architecture: Nicknamed the "black castle" for its dark, imposing exterior, it stands as a formidable landmark atop a hill, surrounded by sturdy walls and a moat.
9. Yonago Waterbird Sanctuary 4.2 ⭐(292)
The Yonago Waterbird Sanctuary in Japan is a fantastic place for birdwatching, with different highlights depending on the season and time of day. Best Times to Visit:
- Mid-October to end of March (Winter): This is the prime time to see Tundra Swans, with around 1,000 gathering to spend the winter. You'll also see large numbers of ducks, herons, greater white-fronted geese, bean geese, and even white-tailed eagles.
- Early Morning and Dusk: These are the recommended times to watch the Tundra Swans. In the early morning, they flock to their feeding grounds, and around sunset, they swoop into formation as they return to the sanctuary from Nakaumi's opposite shore. This is often described as a spectacular sight.
- Spring and Summer: While winter is best for migratory birds, you can still observe resident birds. In spring and summer, you can see spot-billed ducks, grebes, and moorhens rearing their young. Little grebes are particularly interesting as they build floating nests.
10. Eshima Ohashi Bridge 4.0 ⭐(704)
- Thrilling Experience: Known as Japan’s "Roller Coaster Bridge," Eshima Ohashi offers a steep incline that creates an exhilarating driving sensation.
- Architectural Marvel: Spanning 1.7 kilometers, it is one of the longest rigid-frame bridges in the world, showcasing impressive engineering.
- Scenic Views: The bridge provides breathtaking panoramas of Lake Nakaumi, especially during sunrise and sunset.
- Photography Hotspot: Its dramatic slope makes for stunning photos, attracting visitors and photographers from around the world.
- Unique Design: Built to allow large ships to pass underneath, its steep gradient is both functional and visually striking.
- Safe Yet Exciting: Despite its intimidating appearance, the bridge is designed for smooth driving, making it a must-visit landmark.
11. Ranpu no Yu 3.9 ⭐(998)
- Convenient Location: Situated near the south exit of JR Izumo City Station, making it easily accessible for travelers.
- Natural Healing Waters: Features a hot spring sourced from 1,800 meters underground, rich in minerals that promote relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Fragrant Cypress Bathtub: Guests can soak in a luxurious Japanese cypress tub, enhancing the therapeutic experience with its soothing aroma.
- Health Benefits: The chloride spring is said to relieve fatigue, improve overall wellness, and offer benefits in numerous other areas.
- A Tranquil Retreat: Perfect for unwinding after a long journey, providing both physical and mental relaxation in an authentic Japanese hot spring setting.
See Also
- Free shuttle bus between JR Yasugi Station ⟷Adachi Museum of Art
- (Direct approx. 20 minutes)
- Please pick up numbered bus tickets for each departure for the number of people traveling at the counter at the museum entrance.
- A VISIT TO SHIMANE: Golden Opportunity - Dig More Japan
