Discover Shimane

22/01/2025

All-You-Can-Eat Strawberries in Shimane: A Sweet Experience You Can’t Miss!

Did you know Japan is home to over 300 varieties of strawberries? Among them, popular types like “Benihoppe,” “Akihime,” “Yotsuboshi,” and “Kaorino” each offer a unique blend of size, sweetness, and juiciness.

Strawberry season in Japan runs from December to May, and it’s the perfect time to indulge in the ultimate fruit lover’s experience: all-you-can-eat strawberry picking!

For a flat fee, visitors can enjoy a designated time to sample as many strawberries as they can, directly from the source. It’s an unbeatable way to try different varieties while immersing yourself in Japan’s agricultural charm.

Make your trip to Japan even sweeter with this delicious adventure! Check out the places below and treat yourself to this one-of-a-kind experience.

And if you’re craving more, most farms also sell prepackaged strawberries for you to take home and savor later. You can find them at local supermarkets and roadside stations.

▶︎Akatsuki Farm (あかつきファーム今在家)
Location: Izumo City
Season: December ~
Hours: 10:00 am ~ 3:00 pm
Pricing: Adult ¥2,500 (Feb.-Mar.) / ¥2,300 (Apr.)
Elementary School ¥2,000 / ¥2,000 (Apr.)
Toddler (3 ≥) ¥1500
Tel: 0853-72-4915
HP: http://akatsuki-farm.jp/いちご狩り/
*reservations required.
Call 0853-72-4915

▶︎Kinta Farm Berryne (きんた農園ベリーネ）
Location: Hamada City
Season: January ~
Hours: 10:00 am ~ 4:00 pm *Closed on Tuesday
Pricing:[Weekdays] Adult ¥2,200
Elementary School ¥1,700
Toddler (3 ≥) ¥600
[Weekends / Holidays] Adult ¥2,600
Elementary School ¥2,000
Toddler (3 ≥) ¥800
[Mens Day (Mon.)] ¥2,000
[Ladies Day (Wed.)] ¥2,000
Tel: 0855-42-2515
HP: https://www.berryne.co.jp/ (JPN)
*reservations required.
Call 0855-42-2515

▶︎Omori Farm (大森ファーム)
Location: Yasugi City
Season: March 1st.~ (reservations open Feb. 1st)
Hours: 10:00 am/ 11:00 am/ 1:00 pm/ 2:00 pm/ 3:00 pm / 7:30 pm* (night course)
Pricing: Adult ¥2,500~ *pricing may change depending on season
Elementary School ¥1,800
Elementary School ˃ 3 yrs. ¥800
Tel: 070-2637-6505
HP: https://farmomori.com
*reservations required.
Call 0854-23-7667 Yasugi Tourism Association

15/01/2025

Unwrap a New Year of Flavor and Tradition in Shimane!

Happy New Year, adventurers! 2025 is here, and there’s no better way to kick off your journey than by diving into Shimane’s sensational New Year cuisine.

Japan’s New Year celebrations revolve around ozoni, a comforting soup made with chewy mochi (rice cakes). In Shimane, this tradition is taken to the next level with nine awe-inspiring versions of ozoni. Here are four varieties you need to know:

1. Red Azuki Bean Ozoni (Izumo Area)
Sweet, bold, and brimming with symbolism, this ozoni is unlike anything you’ve tasted. Made with red azuki beans, it’s a heartfelt wish for blessings and prosperity. True to Izumo’s culinary legacy and considered a soul food by the locals. This version can only be found in Shimane and Tottori prefectures.

2. Iwanori Seaweed Ozoni (Oki Islands & Izumo)
Pure, fresh, and minimalist. This sea-infused delight features Shimane’s prized iwanori seaweed, hand-harvested for its delicate flavor. Once gifted to shoguns, it’s a taste of history in every sip.

3. Five-Color Ozoni (Oda City)
Vivid, vibrant, and utterly irresistible. This colorful creation showcases shredded egg crepe, fish cake, green vegetables, and more. Every bowl is a work of art celebrating Shimane’s creativity and joy.

4. Naizo Ayu Ozoni (Takatsu & Gonokawa Rivers)
Elegant, earthy, and utterly unforgettable. This specialty hails from the pristine Takatsu and Gonokawa river basins, where sweetfish are carefully roasted and dried to perfection. The broth they create is nothing short of magic—a symphony of delicate flavors and a clean finish that’s pure Shimane.

What’s Next?
Shimane’s ozoni varieties stretch far beyond these four. Every version tells a story of the region’s tradition and culture.

What’s your favorite ozoni? Share your New Year’s food traditions in the comments, and let’s celebrate together!

Discover Shimane’s festive flavors and make 2025 your most memorable year yet!

Photos from Shimane Prefecture’s PR magazine “Shimanesque vol. 110.”

18/12/2024

Indulge in Shimane’s Ultimate Escape✨

Shimane Prefecture, where rich nature and timeless traditions thrive, invites you on a journey of indulgence. Rejuvenate your body and soul with:

♨ World-class hot springs and 🥩Melt-in-your-mouth Shimane Wagyu

Discover hot springs once beloved by literary masters and soak in large, open-air baths steeped in charm. The soothing hot springs will heal you from within and relish the tender, buttery texture and rich aroma of Shimane Wagyu as it melts away the ordinary.

This is a one-of-a-kind escape, an experience, designed for discerning adults seeking both relaxation and fulfillment. Replenish your body and soul with the ultimate luxury of Shimane.

Ready to elevate your next getaway? Click the link in the comments and discover how you can experience this luxurious journey for yourself.

11/12/2024

Discover the Timeless Beauty of Izumo’s Traditional Crafts✨

Embark on a journey to uncover the unique charm of Izumo’s locally crafted treasures, made from the rare and exquisite black persimmon wood.🪵

Renowned for its striking black and ivory tones, black persimmon wood is prized by artisans for its natural patterns and colors, which make every piece truly one-of-a-kind. From logging and sawing to trimming and drying, the intricate process of crafting these products takes an impressive 4 to 5 years to complete.

In Japan, this remarkable wood has been used in tea ceremonies since ancient times. Even Lord Fumai (Matsudaira Harusato), the feudal lord of Matsue, favored utensils crafted from black persimmon wood in his renowned tea ceremonies.🍵

This meticulous craftsmanship mirrors the refined principles of oriental black ink painting. Today, the global appreciation for handmade products that accentuate the natural beauty of materials has only grown stronger.

At OKAYA MOKUGEI’s showroom in Izumo City, you’ll find a stunning array of creations, from elegant furniture to decorative shelves, all made from Japanese black persimmon wood. Visitors can also join workshop tours to learn about the materials and witness the skilled artisans at work—a true celebration of Izumo’s traditional artistry.

OKAYA MOKUGEI(OKAYA co.,LTD)
📍4844-1, Naoe, Hikawa-cho, Izumo City, Shimane
📞 +81-853-72-0538
*Factory Tour (free): for approx. 15 min, [Mon/Tue/Wed/Fri] 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, advance reservation required

04/12/2024

✨8 Must-See Illumination Spots in Shimane 2024

【Tsuwano Illumination】(Tsuwano Town)
📍Tonomachi-dori
📅November 24, 2024 ~ February 16, 2025
6:00 pm ~ 10:00 pm *12/31 6:00 pm - 6:00 am
📍JR Tsuwano Station
📅December 21, 2024 ~ February 16, 2025
6:00 pm- 10:00 pm *12/31 6:00 pm - 6:00 am

【Granarie 2024 in Grand Toit】(Masuda City)
📍Shimane Arts Center “Grand Toit”
📅November 23 ~ December 25, 2024 *closed 12/10, 12,24
Sunset- 9:00
Christmas Concert on 12/21 (Sat.) 6:30pm-

【Hamada Station Area Illumination】(Hamada City)
📍around JR Hamada Station
📅November 23, 2024 ~ February 28, 2025
5:00 pm- 10:00 pm *December 31st 5:00 pm- 2:00 am

📍Sekisho Art Museum (Hamada City)
📅December 7 ~ 25, 2024
Sunset- 8:00 pm

【Kake-Illumi】 (Unnan City)
📍Roadside Station Kakeya-no-sato
📅November 30, 2024 ~ January 6, 2025
5:30 pm ~ 10:00 pm

Izumo Miraito 2024 ~Tsunagari~ (Izumo City)
📍Dandan Hiroba on the South-side of Izumo City Office
📅December 7, 2024 ~ January 17, 2025
5:00 pm ~ 10:00 pm *from 6:00 pm on 12/7 only

📍Yuushien Garden Illumination “Golden Island Zipangu” (Matsue City)
📅November 9, 2024 ~ January 13, 2025
[Weekdays] Sunset ~ 8:00 pm
[Weekends] Sunset ~ 8:30 pm
*Open till ~8:30 pm from 12/1~ 26

📍Matsue Vogel Park “Winter Night Festival 2024” (Matsue City)
📅December 14, 15, 22, 28, 29, 30
5:00 pm ~ 9:00 pm

27/11/2024

A Taste of Magic in Oda 🌿
Tucked away in the lush greenery of Oda, we found ourselves in what felt like a scene straight out of a Studio Ghibli movie. The air was crisp, the streams crystal clear, and the wasabi fields glowed in the dappled sunlight.

Hand-picking fresh wasabi from this enchanting landscape was only the beginning. We savored the fruits of our labor with a simple yet unforgettable meal: freshly grated wasabi paired with steamed rice and tender, homemade roast beef. A perfect harmony of bold flavors and natural beauty.

Add this to your next Shimane adventure! 🌿

20/11/2024

✨ Take Your Breakfast to New Heights!

Discover “Tenku no Asagohan,” an extraordinary breakfast adventure at Mt. Sanbe. Relish exquisite artisanal flavors—farm-fresh ingredients, hand-kneaded breads, and award-winning coffee—all while soaking in panoramic, soul-stirring views of Mt. Sanbe.

🌄 The journey begins before sunrise! In the still darkness, take a peaceful 15-minute lift ride through the unlit landscape. Once at the peak, enjoy a lovely breakfast put together by the local cafes and shops. As the sun the sun begins to rise, watch the first rays of light dance in a sky of clouds like a Hokusai woodblock print.

📅The last event of the year is on November 25th, but save this information for next year.
🔻Check the comments below for the link to their official website.

天空の朝ごはんin三瓶　 - 島根県大田市

13/11/2024

The Ultimate Crab Experience Awaits!🦀

Step into the season of indulgence with an unforgettable seafood feast in Matsue. Dive into “Kani-ichi” (former “Kani-goya”) for a winter-only crab BBQ like no other. Here, every table transforms into a personal grill station where you can sizzle fresh crab, fish, shrimp, scallops, and even perfectly grilled rice balls.

The experience is yours for just 300 yen per stove, with crab prices starting at 3,500 yen depending on the day’s market rate. Each crab is pre-boiled for ultimate convenience—just a quick grill and you’re ready to enjoy!

Don’t miss the rich, velvety crab soup, a must-try treat to warm your winter spirits. And for sake lovers, we invite you to experience “kani no kora zake.” Pour Shimane’s premium sake into a warm crab shell, heat it up, and enjoy a toasty, umami-filled sip.

Kani-ichi
📍 Address: 150-7 Higashi Asahi-machi, Matsue
🗓️ Open Period: November 22, 2024 – February 24, 2025 (Closed: Dec 31 - Jan 1)
🕒 Hours:
Weekdays: 11:00 am - 3:00 pm / 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm (Last order: 8:30 pm)
Weekends & Holidays: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm (Last order: 8:30 pm)
🚶 Access: 3 min by taxi or 15 min on foot from JR Matsue Station

Get ready for a winter seafood experience you won’t forget!

07/11/2024

🍂Here comes the season of Autumn Leaves! [part WEST]

This year in Shimane, mid- to end-November is the peak season for viewing the awesome crimson foliage in the countryside. Forests and mountainsides turn a breathtaking red, yellow, and orange.❗

Here are some of our favorites of Western Shimane:
Jozenji Temple (Oda City)
Hikimi Gorge (Masuda City)
Hori Garden (Tsuwano Town)
Taikodani Inari Shrine (Tsuwano Town)
Yomeiji Temple (Tsuwano)

[Access to Western Shimane]
✈90 min. by airplane from Haneda Airport to Iwami Airport
🚃2.25 hrs by express train from Shin-Yamaguchi Station to Hamada Station
🚌2~3 hrs by bus from Hiroshima to Oda/Hamada/Masuda *special ¥1000 ticket available

06/11/2024

🍁Here comes the season of Autumn Leaves! [part EAST]

We experienced a long series of hot weather in Japan, but with the temperature cooling down the season of the beautiful autumn leaves is soon to come. ✨

This year in Shimane, mid- to end-November is the peak season for viewing the awesome crimson foliage in the countryside. Forests and mountainsides turn a breathtaking red, yellow, and orange.❗

Here are some of our favorites of Eastern Shimane:
Sakurai Family Residence (Okuizumo Town)
Itohara Memorial Museum (Okuizumo Town)
Oni no Sh*ta Burui Gorge (Okuizumo Town)
Yaedaki Falls (Unnan City)
Gakuenji Temple (Izumo City)
Kiyomizu-dera Temple (Yasugi City)
Yuushien Garden (Matsue City)

[Access to Eastern Shimane]
✈85 min. by airplane from Haneda Airport to Izumo Airport
✈55 min. by airplane from Itami Airport (Osaka) to Izumo Airport
🚃2.5 hrs by express train from Okayama Station to Matsue Station
🚌3 hrs by bus from Hiroshima to Matsue/ Izumo *special ¥1000 ticket available
🚌5 hrs by bus from Osaka to Matsue/ Izumo *special ¥2000 ticket available

30/10/2024

A luxurious inn offering an exclusive “cottage rental” is soon to open in Matsue!✨

Nestled at the northern end of the Matsue Ohashi Bridge with views of Lake Shinji, this unique facility repurposes the historic warehouse of the former Naniwa Ryokan, built in the Ansei era (mid-19th century). Blending traditional Japanese charm with modern amenities, the space provides a serene and comfortable retreat. Also, the first floor is pet-friendly, welcoming guests traveling with their pets. 🐾

This area is also where the famous writer Lafcadio Hearn, who has strong ties to Matsue, lived with his wife, Setsu. 🎎

The fully private facility includes an exclusive guest lounge, where you can unwind in the evening, admiring the intricate kumiko latticework while taking in views of the beautiful lake and garden. The bath is also sourced from Matsue Shinjiko Onsen for a touch of onsen luxury.

As a base for exploring Matsue, this inn offers a truly special, quiet, and luxurious stay.

Yado no kura “Hug”
📍21 Suetsugu-cho, Matsue, Shimane 690-0843
🌐https://yado-hug.com/ (website not completed yet)

23/10/2024

[Exciting Announcement ✨]
Poké Lids (Pokémon Utility Hole Covers) are being installed in five locations across Shimane📣/

Shimane has been presented with its first Pokémon Utility Hole Covers, known as “Poké Lids!”

The Pokémon Company donates these unique utility hole covers to showcase the charm of different regions in Japan through Pokémon. Each “Poké Lid” has a one-of-a-kind design, making it truly special.

The, five “Poké Lids” that will be installed throughout the prefecture were revealed at the Prefectural Government Hall. Look forward to seeing them soon, as they will be set up in various cities and towns in the coming days!

https://local.pokemon.jp/en/manhole/shimane.html

Locations:
📍Izumo City (Tandemaus & Luvdisc)
📍Yasugi City (Barboach & Mr. Mime)
📍Oda City (Hydreigon & Gallade)
📍Hamada City (Stunfisk & Omastar)
📍Okinoshima Town (Lopunny & Dedenne)

17/10/2024

💐Explore the vibrant Dahlia Festival at Yuushien Garden, running from October 19 to November 4, 2024. This stunning event showcases 100,000 dahlias, creating a breathtaking display on the garden’s central pond. A collaboration between Yuushien’s renowned peony garden and Takarazuka Kamisasori, Japan’s largest producer of dahlia. Together they offer a serene combination of autumn foliage and floating dahlias. Don’t miss this seasonal highlight in Shimane! 🪷

Event Information:
📍Yuushien Garden
📅October 19, 2024 ~ November 4, 2024
🕒10:00 am ~ 5:00 pm (last admission at 4:30 pm)
Entrance fees are ¥1,400 for adults and ¥700 for students.

09/10/2024

🎶 Feel the Power of Tradition at the Matsue Dogyoretsu Drum Parade! 🎶

Get ready for an unforgettable experience! On October 20th, Matsue comes alive with the beat of 16 powerful drum floats, kicking off from National Treasure Matsue Castle at 1:30 PM. As the parade surges through the city, the rhythm and energy echo through its vibrant streets, all the way to Shirakata Tenmangu Shrine. Immerse yourself in this thrilling display of culture and tradition, and join the heartbeat of Matsue! 🥁

📅Date: October 20th
📍Starts: Matsue Castle
　 Ends: Shirakata Tenmangu Shrine

07/10/2024

🎉 Karakoro Art Studio Grand Opening in Matsue – October 12 🎉

With 9 new food spots in addition to their incredible Yaoyorozu Kitchen and Market, Karakoro Art Studio is where you food adventure begins. Although Karakoro Art Studio’s grand opening is on October 12, several food spots are already open. You can savor everything from coffee, sushi, Matsue oden, parfaits, burgers, pizza, Shimane beef, a sake bar, and ramen at the new food and drink spots.

Elevate your dining experience by enjoying your meal on the stunning open courtyard terrace—with tables and chairs ready, it’s the perfect place to relax outdoors!

For more information: https://karakoro-kobo.com/hall/

04/10/2024

Effortless Travel from Nagoya to Shimane – One Hour from City Lights to Nature’s Wonders

Start your journey in Nagoya, one of Japan’s top three cities alongside Tokyo and Osaka. Known for its impressive food culture—indulge in local favorites like hitsumabushi (grilled eel) and miso katsu before your adventure begins.

In just one hour, you can leave behind the bustling energy of Nagoya and arrive in the serene beauty of Shimane, thanks to seamless, direct flights from Chubu Centrair International Airport to Izumo.

Whether coming from abroad or starting your journey in Japan, Nagoya’s international hub makes reaching Shimane simple. Once there, discover the sacred Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine or lose yourself in the peaceful landscapes surrounding National Treasure Matsue Castle.

Effortless travel. Vibrant cities. Local delicacies. Unforgettable experiences. Your Shimane adventure begins now.

Discover the all-new Shimanekko FDA airplane! Keep an eye out as it soars to FDA-serviced airports, and with a little luck, you might land in Izumo aboard this exclusive flight. Experience Shimane in a whole new way!

Start exploring flight options today: https://www.fujidream.co.jp/en/

03/10/2024

🏮Experience a Different World at Matsue Castle: Shimane Culture Festival 🏮
Step into the world of glimmering lights and ghost stories that recreate the era of Matsue Castle’s construction. 🏯

During this special two-day weekday event, visitors can enjoy water lantern illuminations at the castle, along with traditional performances such as Iwami Kagura and Yasugi-bushi. There will also be demonstrations and hands-on experiences like taiko drumming. The castle’s main area will be open for night visits, offering a rare experience including ghost stories, traditional sweets, and matcha tea.

Shimane sake and other local delicacies will be offered at the food stalls of San’in Gourmet Food Village in the Otemae Parking Lot.

📅 Event Details:
📍 Location: Matsue Castle, Matsue city, Shimane
🕒Time/ Dates: October 10(Thurs.), 11(Fri.) 6:00pm〜9:00pm

Normally, entry to Matsue Castle, a national treasure, is only available until 17:00 (October–March). However, during this two-day weekday special event, you can enjoy special nighttime access. Take this opportunity to experience the enchanting view from the illuminated castle tower?

02/10/2024

✨Discover Grand Toit: A World-Class Theater in Masuda!🎼
Located in the heart of Masuda, Shimane, the Shimane Arts Center—known as Grand Toit—is an architectural gem, opened in September 2005. This iconic complex houses both the Iwami Art Museum and the Iwami Art Theater.

One of the building’s most distinctive features is its Sekishu-roof tiles, a local specialty. These tiles create a stunning “expression of the wall,” as their colors shift with changing sunlight, offering a unique view throughout the day.

With its enormous gable roof, exposed concrete interior, wood-grain floors, and tranquil courtyard pond, Grand Toit’s design is both modern and majestic. Visitors can enjoy regular art exhibitions and live performances year-round, making it a cultural hub in Shimane.

Want to learn more about upcoming events? Visit the link in the comments for details!

Shimane Arts Center “Grand Toit”
📍5-15 Ariake-cho, Masuda, Shimane

[Access]
🚌5 min. by bus from JR Masuda Station to "Grand Toit Mae" bus stop (Iwami Koutsuu City Bus headed for Ikou-ji)→ 1 min. on foot
🚶15 min. on foot from JR Masuda Station (1 km)