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While Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and other popular tourist destinations are often mentioned in Japan, Shimane Prefecture is the perfect place to experience Japan's traditions, culture, and beautiful nature on a deeper level. Facing the Sea of Japan and cherished for its rich history, mythology, and cultural heritage, Shimane Prefecture is a special region that quietly inspires visitors. Its uniqueness and individuality are particularly striking precisely because it remains relatively unknown to foreign tourists. This article provides a thorough and detailed introduction to the places, experiences, transportation, and recommended cuisine that foreign tourists should know about when visiting Shimane Prefecture. This article will provide travel-loving foreigners with hints for a journey that will allow them to experience the essence of Japan.

What is Shimane Prefecture? A hidden gem of Japan for foreigners

Compared to world-famous tourist cities, Shimane Prefecture is not particularly well known. However, this is also what makes it an attractive area where you can experience the true essence of Japan. Shimane Prefecture is home to historical sites such as Izumo Taisha Shrine and Matsue Castle, as well as beautiful nature, hot springs, and the simple, warm hospitality of the people.

Why is Shimane Prefecture recommended for foreigners?

While "overtourism," also known as tourist pollution, is becoming a problem, Shimane Prefecture is a rare place where you can experience Japan at a leisurely pace. It is an ideal choice for foreign travelers who seek quiet over bustle and the warmth of local areas over the luxury of cities.

Location and Access of Shimane Prefecture

Shimane Prefecture is located in the northern part of the Chugoku region, facing the Sea of Japan. The nearest major airport is Izumo Enmusubi Airport. There are direct flights from Tokyo (Haneda Airport) and Osaka (Itami Airport), so access is surprisingly convenient. You can also get there by express bus or Shinkansen, so it's accessible from all over the country.

Izumo Taisha: Feel the silence and sanctity of a mythical land

Izumo Taisha Shrine is one of the most popular tourist spots to introduce to foreign visitors. One of the oldest shrines in Japan, it is also famous as the shrine of the god of matchmaking, and its mystical atmosphere and magnificent architecture captivate visitors.

The charm of Izumo, the home of the gods

Izumo is also the setting for Japanese mythology, and is passed down as the setting for stories such as "The Land of Deposition" and "The Descent of the Heavenly Grandson." By visiting Izumo Taisha, you can experience firsthand the spiritual culture of Japan that has continued from mythology to the present day.

Etiquette and Rules for Visiting Shrines

For foreigners, the way of worshiping at a shrine is unique, and learning the correct etiquette will lead to a deeper understanding and experience. You can learn and practice the proper etiquette, such as bowing when passing through the torii gate, how to walk along the approach to the shrine, how to put in your offering, and the two bows, two claps, one bow routine, while you're there.

Matsue City: A castle town where history and charm intersect

Matsue City, the central city of Shimane Prefecture, is a beautiful castle town where history and modernity, nature and the city coexist in harmony. It is home to many cultural assets, tourist attractions, and uniquely Japanese experiences such as Japanese sweets and tea.

Matsue Castle and its surroundings

Matsue Castle is one of the 12 castle towers remaining in Japan and is designated as a national treasure. The Horikawa Meguri sightseeing boat tour around the moat is especially popular with foreign tourists, and the boatman's humorous commentary is one of its attractions.

Lafcadio Hearn's former residence and Japanese experience

Lafcadio Hearn, famous for his ghost stories, loved his life in Matsue and spread Japanese culture to the world through his many writings. His former residence is a significant place for foreigners as well, and a journey following in his footsteps will deepen your understanding of Japanese culture.

Iwami Ginzan: Experience the exchange of civilizations at a World Heritage Site

Oda City in Shimane Prefecture is home to the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This mining town flourished in the 16th century, boasting cutting-edge technology of the time and being part of a global trade network.

The history of a mining town and cross-cultural exchange

When the silver mine was thriving, trade was conducted with Portugal, Spain, China, and other countries, giving a sense of the global exchange that took place at the time, something that will resonate with foreign tourists.

Stroll through the samurai residences and preserved townscape district

The Omori district retains its old streetscape, allowing you to get a feel for the lifestyle and culture of the time just by strolling around. Not only is it preserved as a cultural asset, but it also has the appeal of being a "living streetscape" where people still live today.

Hot Springs and Relaxation: Yunokawa Onsen, a Popular Spot for Foreigners

Shimane Prefecture is dotted with high-quality hot springs, including Yunokawa Onsen, known as one of Japan's three most beautiful hot springs. Hot spring culture is gradually becoming more popular among foreign tourists, and this is a great opportunity to not only relax but also experience Japanese bathing culture itself.

Onsen etiquette and how to enjoy it

There are a few rules for hot springs (such as pouring water over yourself, not putting towels in the bath, and bathing quietly), but hotels and tourist information centers have plenty of English-language information, so you can enjoy the experience with peace of mind.

Interact with locals

At small hot spring resorts, you can often strike up natural conversations with the locals, and one of the attractions is that you can experience the feeling of being in a homestay in Japan.

Gourmet Experience: Tasting Tradition and Seasons in Shimane Prefecture

Food is one of the great pleasures of traveling. Shimane Prefecture is home to a wide variety of gourmet dishes that delight the palates of foreigners, including Japanese cuisine and local dishes that make use of local ingredients, as well as Izumo soba and oyster dishes.

The depth of Izumo soba

Izumo soba, made with a unique binder, is one of Japan's three major soba noodles, and the "warigo soba" served in a three-tiered box is visually appealing and popular with foreigners.

Sake pairing experience

Shimane Prefecture is blessed with high-quality water, making it a producer of delicious sake. Many sake breweries offer tours and tastings, and the food pairing experience is a great opportunity to experience the depths of Japanese culture.

Local Cultural Experience: Experience the Spirit of Japan

"Experience" is important for foreigners. Through hands-on programs that allow you to not only see but also touch, you can experience Japanese culture with all five senses.

Kimono and tea ceremony experiences

Tourist destinations offer kimono rentals and tea ceremony programs, and some even offer experiences in traditional Japanese houses. These cultural exchanges will make your travel memories special.

Participating in local events

If the timing is right, you can also participate in local summer festivals, votive kagura performances, and New Year's events, allowing you to experience the living local culture. Kagura performances in particular are a traditional performing art that is very popular with foreigners.

Transportation and accommodation: Travel support for foreigners

One of the concerns foreigners have when traveling within Japan is language and transportation information, but Shimane Prefecture has made progress in providing multilingual support at tourist spots, so you can travel with peace of mind.

Foreigner-friendly tourist information

Major facilities and tourist information centers have pamphlets available in English, Chinese, Korean, and other languages, and staff are also improving their language skills.

Plenty of accommodation options

There are a variety of accommodation options available, from large hotels to inns, private lodgings, and guesthouses. You can choose from a variety of options depending on your budget and the purpose of your experience, making it popular with foreigners.

The current state and future of inbound tourism

In recent years, as part of the "tourism nation" policy being implemented by the Japanese government and local governments, Shimane Prefecture has also been working to create an environment that is more welcoming to foreign tourists.

Free Wi-Fi and cashless payment available

Free Wi-Fi is being installed in tourist areas, and the number of stores that accept cashless payments is increasing. Systems are becoming more widespread that allow foreigners to continue their trip without any hassle.

An opportunity to deepen understanding of cultural diversity

Local residents are ready to welcome foreigners, and language volunteers and cultural guides are gradually becoming more active. This is not just tourism, but also a bridge that deepens mutual understanding between the two sides.

summary

Shimane Prefecture is a place where you can experience the true essence of Japan, filled with tranquil nature, ancient history, and cultural experiences that are often overlooked in modern Japan. For foreign tourists, Shimane Prefecture is truly an "unknown gem," where you can avoid the tourist crowds and enjoy a more authentic and moving experience. With English support becoming more widespread, you can enjoy a safe, secure, and emotionally fulfilling trip. The next time you visit Japan, why not add Shimane to your list of destinations?

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