About Shimane
Shimane Prefecture is where history and modernity come together as one.
Situated in the Chugoku Region of Western Japan and overlooking the stunning Sea of Japan, Shimane Prefecture offers a unique blend of old and new. Home to Izumo Taisha, and dedicated to the Shinto god of "en" (the ties that bind us together), Shimane Prefecture has retained its traditional landscapes. The region also boasts an incredibly rich history, which the locals take great pride in preserving for the benefit of generations to come.
Not only is Shimane Prefecture blessed by sea and mountain ranges, it also enjoys higher levels of humidity and milder sunlight compared to the rest of the country, earning it the nickname "Prefecture of Beautiful Skin." With more than 60 hot springs throughout the region to choose from, Shimane Prefecture truly has it all in terms of the great outdoors, with ample opportunities to rejuvenate your body, mind, and soul.
Only a 50-minute plane ride from Osaka, home of EXPO 2025.
We look forward to seeing you in Shimane. The Prefecture of Beautiful Skin is waiting for you.
Latest
information
MORE
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2025.05.21
Iwami Kagura "Orochi" Descends on the Osaka-Kansai Expo Venue!
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2025.01.29
A Travel Itinerary for Shimane is on osaka-info!
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2024.09.02
Bebechan from YouTube introduced the charms of the Iwami region!
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2024.08.27
Oki Tranditional Sumo
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2024.08.20
Special Discount Bus Ticket for Osaka and Shimane
Articles
Seasons
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2024.06.04 SpringExperience Japanese culture, from breathtaking views surrounded by cherry blossoms in full bloom, to soothing heart and mind in verdant forests
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2024.06.03 SummerBe impressed by Shimane’s summer traditions, marine activities, and refreshing spectacular views
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2024.06.02 AutumnExperience glorious autumn foliage, light festivals that illuminate the streets of the old castle town, and traditional culture of remote islands
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2024.06.01 WinterEven in the depths of winter there is something for everyone to enjoy in Shimane, from hot springs to delicious food and winter sports
Recommend Spots
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Matsue Castle (National Treasure)MatsueNature History
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Izumo Taisha Grand ShrineIzumoHistory Shrine
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Adachi Museum of ArtYasugiNature Art & Culture
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Inasa-no-hama (Inasa Beach)IzumoNature History
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Tamatsukuri OnsenMatsueOnsen
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Yunotsu Onsen (Yunotsu Hot Spring)OdaOnsen
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Matsue Shinjiko OnsenMatsueOnsen
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KAZENOKUNI IWAMI RESORT&STAYSGotsuNature Onsen Accommodations
Events
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August 2 - 3, 2025
2025 Matsue Suigosai Fireworks Festival
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June 19 and 20, 2025
Iwami Kagura "Orochi" Descends on the Osaka-Kansai Expo Venue!
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Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from March 1 to November 30, 2025, including Golden Week and Obon holidays
Iwami Silver Mine Okubo Mabu Limited Public Tour
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February 8, 2025 to May 25, 2025
Hamada Castle Museum Special Exhibition: “Hamada Castle and the Surrounding Area”
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March 1, 2025 to May 25, 2025
(The 55th Anniversary of The Museum’s Establishment) Kitaoji Rosanjin: The Museum’s Entire Collection on Display
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March 1, 2025 to May 31, 2025
(The 55th Anniversary of The Museum’s Establishment) Adachi Museum of Art, spring special exhibition: “The Track of Yokoyama Taikan: His Last Work “Mt. Fuji” and Other Masterpieces All Together”
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June 27, 2024 – June 8, 2025
Lafcadio Hearn Memorial Museum, Special Exhibition
Discounted travel information
Find all the most useful and cost-effective travel information for your Shimane adventure right here.
Check it out, and enjoy your trip!
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JR Area Pass Unlock unlimited rail travel with the JAPAN RAIL PASS, providing great value for exploring Shimane Prefecture.
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This pass allows you to enjoy attractions in Shimane Prefecture and the surrounding areas at a discounted fixed price for a certain period.
For other information on the San'in Area, please check here. -
Special Discount Bus Ticket Enjoy convenient, affordable access to Shimane with one-way bus fares from the Kansai area for only 2,000 yen.