About Shimane Prefecture

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.

(Shimane Prefecture. “About Shimane” Shimane International Tourism.)

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About Matsue

Matsue is the capital city of Shimane Prefecture, in Southwest Japan. Known as the “City of Water”, Matsue stands by the Sea of Japan where Lake Shinji and Nakaumi meet, in the middle of Shimane Peninsula.

(Shimane Prefecture. “Matsue City Centre.” Visit Matsue.)

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Izumo Taisha Shrine (National Treasure)

Dedicated to the Shinto god of “en” (the ties that binds us together) Okuninushi-no-Okami, Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine is one of the oldest and most venerated shrines in Japan. The main hall is constructed in the “taisha-zukuri” style, Japan’s oldest form of shrine architecture, and has been designated as a National Treasure. Each year during the 10th month of the Lunar calendar the gods from throughout Japan congregate at Izumo Taisha for their annual meeting. Only in Izumo is this month known as “The Month With Gods.” The “shimenawa” (sacred straw rope) that hang at Kagura-den Hall in one of the largest in Japan, weighing an impressive 5 tons.

(Shimane Prefecture. “Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine.” Shimane International Tourism.)

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Matsue Castle (National Treasure)

Constructed over a period of 5 years from 1607 to 1611 by Yoshiharu Horio, a feudal lord and founder of Matsue. Currently it is one of the only 12 remaining original castles in Japan and the only one in the San’in region. It was designated National Treasure in 2015. The elegance of the castle’s swooping roofs and decor is often compared to the wings of a ‘chidori’ (plover bird) which has led to the castle’s nickname,’Chidori-jo’ (Plover Castle). The castle features an architectural design specifically chosen for battle, but retains a grand majestic appearance.

(Shimane Prefecture. “Matsue Castle.” Shimane International Tourism.)

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