Shimane & Tottori
Neighbouring prefectures Shimane and Tottori are situated on the Sea of Japan coast and have preserved their rugged landscapes and traditional culture and charms.
Known as the birthplace of Japan and province of the gods, Shimane is home to rich folklore and a wealth of mystical temples and shrines, the most famous being the impressive Izumo Taisha.
In Tottori you’ll find rolling sand dunes, a very unique sight in Japan, along with excellent hiking at Mount Daisen or the unusual pilgrimage trail at Mitokusan. At night, the starry sky twinkles with myriads of lights over what has been nicknamed “the star-catching prefecture”.
Both prefectures are home to great onsen towns and opportunities to immerse yourself in nature and spirituality in places that feel lightyears away from modern Japan and its neon-lit cities.
Matsue Castle
Matsue Castle is one of Japan’s only 12 remaining original castles. Situated on a hilltop and surrounded by a moat, the black and white castle offers great views of the surrounding city from the top floor of the main keep. The castle grounds also feature a few shrines, an Western-style building from the Meiji era and many cherry blossom trees.
Izumo Taisha
The grand Izumo Taisha is believed to be the country’s oldest shrine, and the deity enshrined here is said to have created the land of Japan. The expansive grounds feature big torii gates, interesting statues and the largest sacred straw rope (shimenawa) in Japan, weighing no less than 4,5 tonnes. In autumn, a festival is held to celebrate the gathering of millions of deities from across Japan.
Misasa Onsen
Centred along a wide river, Misasa Onsen is a charming onsen town whose hot springs contain a high amount of radon, said to prevent flus and common colds, speed up the metabolism and boost the immune system. The tiny town centre has a distinct Showa era feel with neon-lit alleyways, perfect for an evening stroll.
Mount Daisen
Mount Daisen is a dormant volcano dominating the landscape of Western Tottori, and one of Japan’s 100 famous mountains. As a spiritual centre for mountain worship, Mount Daisen is home to many temples and shrines. Also a prime hiking spot, trails will lead you through untouched beech forests, or to the summit of this magnificent mountain for glorious views.
Adachi Museum of Art
When Adachi Zenko founded the Adachi Museum of Art in 1970, he hoped that the exhibitions displayed in a refined building overlooking a stunning traditional garden would spark interest in Japanese art. The museum has an outstanding collection of more than 1300 pieces, and the garden has achieved the highest rating of three stars in the Michelin Green Guide.
Yunotsu Onsen
Yunotsu Onsen is a century-old hot spring town, and the water here is said to have healing powers. The town has two public bathhouses as well as some traditional ryokan and cute cafés, and is perfect for an atmospheric evening stroll. Yunotsu is designated as UNESCO World Heritage together with Iwami Ginzan, and a 12 kilometre hiking trail connects the hot spring town with the old silver mine.
Tottori Sand Dunes & Museum
A must-see, the Tottori Sand Dunes stretch along the coast for 16 kilometres, providing visitors with great ocean views. Constantly changing patterns of ripples and waves are created by the wind, making every visit unique. The nearby Sand Museum displays unusual exhibitions of large sculptures made entirely from sand.
Mitokusan
On the steep mountainside of Mitokusan, a small temple named Nageiredo is clinging to the sheer cliffs. The challenging climb to this national treasure makes for a unique pilgrimage journey where you will have to climb over large tree roots and haul yourself up by chains in some sections. However, the breathtaking views from the top more than makes up for your endeavours.
Iwami Ginzan
Once one of the world’s most prominent silver mines, Iwami Ginzan is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the old mine shafts and learn more about the fascinating history of this once flourishing merchants’ town. You will also find temples, shrines and beautifully preserved samurai residences, some of which have been converted into shops and cafés.
Kiyomizudera
Ascend the winding staircase of stone steps to reach this magnificent temple hidden deep in the forest. Especially stunning in autumn when the maple leaves glow red and orange, the temple features a multistoried pagoda which can even be climbed. Calm your mind with a zazen session and don’t miss out on an overnight stay next to the temple grounds, complete with outstanding Buddhist cuisine.
Yuushien
Yuushien is a traditional Japanese garden with a network of ponds and streams crossed by arched wooden bridges. The garden is especially famous for its many peonies which can be enjoyed year-round. In winter, snow often covers the grounds, and spectacular illuminations light up the garden at night.
Selected photos from Shimane on this page: ©Shimane Kanko
Photos from Tottori on this page: ©Tottori Pref.
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