Yaegaki Shrine
This ancient shrine enshrines Susanoo-no-Mikoto and Inatahime-no-Mikoto, deities from the legend of Yamata-no-Orochi, the eight-headed serpent. According to mythology, Susanoo defeated the serpent to protect Inatahime, whom he later married. Today you’ll see many flocking to this spot for its believed extra boost for blessings for matchmaking, marital harmony, and safe childbirth.
The Mirror Pond fortune-telling pointed me in the right direction.
Shimane Art Museum
A lakeside museum themed around harmony with water, located along the shores of Lake Shinji. Designed with a low profile to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, its gentle, wave-like curves evoke the image of a "nagisa," the connecting point between water and land.
I really loved the works by Katsushika Hokusai. The shops around the area were also super fun to browse.
Adachi Museum of Art
The founder of the museum is a successful businessman, Adachi Zenko, who was born in Yasugi City, Shimane Prefecture. Bringing together the modern Japanese paintings of renowned artists such as Yokoyama Taikan, Yokoyama Seiho, Uemura Shoen, Hashimoto Kansetsu, Sagakibara Shiho, the museum stores about 2000 artworks, including ceramic arts and wooden sculptures.
So pleasing to the eye, and even having coffee inside had an amazing atmosphere.
Ginza Tamaya Tokyo Skytree "Goma Tamago"
These charming, egg-shaped sweets feature black sesame paste and smooth black sesame filling wrapped in fluffy castella cake, all coated in white chocolate. The shape and size resemble a real egg, and slicing one open reveals a visually appealing four-layered cross-section. With delightful flavors created by layering different textures, this treat is perfect as a thoughtful souvenir to delight friends and family.
Every time I get my hands on them, I just can't stop eating them one after another.
Izumo Taisha
Izumo Taisha is one of the most revered, ancient shrines in Japan, along with Ise jingu Shrine. Its records go as far back as writings from the Kojiki, Japan’ oldest historical account compiled in 712. The deity enshrined here is Okuninushi no Okami, who is known as the deity of love and marriage.。
Izumo Taisha is Japan’s most powerful shrine for matchmaking and relationships, and the rabbit statues throughout the grounds are lively and adorable.
Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse
The 43m-tall lighthouse stands on Cape Hino at the western edge of Shimane. 63m above sea level, this is Japan's tallest stone lighthouse. This large western-style lighthouse was selected into the IALA list of 100 lighthouses as historic and architectural monuments and 50 Best Lighthouses in Japan.
The weather was great, and the blue ocean and sky with the white lighthouse looked absolutely beautiful.
Walking along the road, an endless coastline came into view, with lots of towering trees and plants nearby. 666
Iwami Ginzan, Omori area and Ginzan Area
This mine was Japan’s major producer of silver, known not only domestically but also globally. Iwami silver mine was registered as a World Heritage Site in 2007. Omori district and Ginzan district were the center of mining and economy in Sennoyama area. Between the two districts, there is the Iwami Ginzan Tourist Information Center.
Strolling around here, you can see the streets that once flourished because of the silver mine.
Shimane Aquarium Aquas
Locatated in Shimane Prefectural Iwami Seaside Park, this is the largest aquarium in Japan’s Shikoku and Chugoku regions. Inside you’ll find 10,000 different sea creatures, representing some 400 different species of animal.
The beluga whale show with the happy bubble was really impressive. You can also see penguins, sea lions, stingrays, jellyfish, and more up close.
Tonomachi Dori / Honmachi Dori (Streets)
These are main streets in the town nestled in the mountains, Tsuwano, which is called the Little Kyoto in San-in Region. Namako walls, white earthen walls with lattice windows - Edo Period’s elegance is seen in the shops in houses and old farm-style homes. Along streets, canals are built to bring in the river water, reflecting the ancient style of a castle town.
Known as the Little Kyoto of the San-in region, this area has lots of koi in the canals, and they’ll follow you when you get close. There are fewer tourists here, so you can enjoy a relaxing time strolling around at your own pace.
Karato market
This fish market welcomes both professionals and tourists alike for shopping. Known for Shimonoseki's specialty Fugu, as well as a market for Sea Bream and Yellowtail, it offers a variety of fresh fish caught by local fishermen. The popular weekly event "Ikiiki-bakangai" also draws crowds every weekend.
This was my first time trying fugu cuisine, and I had it here.
There are also restaurants next door if you want more dining options. Inside the market, you can buy fresh sashimi and seafood, and there are dried goods and souvenirs for sale too.