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Ryuzu-ga-taki Waterfall

One of the most famous waterfalls in the Chugoku region, located in Unnan City. The 40m drop possesses a power and mystery fitting its name "Dragon's Head." Its best feature is that it's a "Urami-no-taki" (waterfall seen from behind), allowing you to walk behind the water curtain. The view of the primeval forest through the water is mystical, offering a sense of unity with nature. The area is filled with a sacred air and stays cool even in summer. Combined with the nearby "Yae-taki," it's a place to feel the legend of dragons and the preciousness of water.

Shimane
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Shimane

Gassan Toda Castle Ruins

A massive mountain castle ruin of the Amago clan in Yasugi City, once feared as "impregnable" during the Warring States period. It skillfully utilizes the terrain of the 190m high Mt. Gassan, and remains of stone walls and moats can still be seen. While the climb to the summit is a bit steep, the panoramic view of Yasugi and Nakaumi from the top is the same scenery that samurai saw. It is a moving spot where tragic and heroic historical romances are carved, perfect for those wanting to touch the samurai spirit.

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Shimane

Honnosan Park

A park on a small hill near Izumo Taisha, known as a "hidden superb view spot" overlooking the shrine from its most beautiful angle. From the observatory, you can see the forest surrounding the sacred grounds, Inasa-no-hama Beach, and the Izumo Plain, feeling as if the gods are watching over the land. It also houses a tower for Izumo-no-Okuni, the founder of Kabuki. Away from the hustle of the shrine, it's a quiet place to overlook the expanse of the sacred land of Izumo.

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Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse

Standing at the western tip of the Shimane Peninsula, this is the tallest stone-masonry lighthouse in Japan. Built in 1903 and selected as one of the "100 Historic Lighthouses of the World," its white exterior is striking. Climbing the spiral staircase inside leads to a panoramic view of the deep blue Sea of Japan. The sight of the white lighthouse against the blue sky and rugged cliffs is exceptionally moving, especially at sunset. The contrast with the vermilion Hinomisaki Shrine nearby is a must-see.

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Hii River (Inoue Bridge)

The Hii River is a majestic river flowing through the Izumo Plain, known as the setting for the myth of "Yamata-no-Orochi." The area around Inoue Bridge is a famous cherry blossom spot where about 800 cherry trees bloom for 2km in spring. When in full bloom, they create a tunnel of blossoms, and the contrast between the clear river and pale pink petals is a quintessential Japanese spring view. Strolling along this legendary river allows for a deeper understanding of Izumo's history.

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Inasa-no-hama Beach

A sandy beach west of Izumo Taisha, famous in mythology as the setting for the "Kuni-yuzuri" (transfer of the land) negotiations. It is a sacred place where myriad gods from across Japan are welcomed during the 10th lunar month. The iconic "Bentenjima" rock on the shore provides a divine silhouette against the sunset. There is a tradition of taking sand from here to offer at Izumo Taisha, making it a spiritual beach where myth and reality connect.

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Former Taisha Station

Built in 1924 as the gateway to Izumo Taisha, this rare pure Japanese-style wooden station building is a National Important Cultural Property. Though no longer in use, the grand tiled roof, high ceilings, and royal waiting room remain preserved. Walking along the nostalgic platforms, you can feel the golden age of railways and Japan's high-level architectural techniques. It is a photogenic landmark filled with history and romance.

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Lake Shinji Sunset Spot

A designated viewing space on the shores of Lake Shinji for enjoying the sunset. From here, you can see the small "Yomegashima Island" directly in front, watching it and the sky transform into mystical silhouettes as the sun nears the horizon. It's especially popular with photographers, and there are guideboards to predict the sun's position. This dramatic natural show is one of Shimane's most moving experiences.

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Yakumo Kayabuki Center

Located in the Yakumo area of Matsue, this exchange facility utilizes a magnificent thatched-roof traditional house. You can see traditional Japanese farmhouse architecture up close, with thick beams and a hearth (Irori) creating a nostalgic, warm space. You can experience "Japanese rural life" through buckwheat noodle making and local cuisine while interacting with locals. It offers a rustic, luxurious time not found in urban tourist areas, providing heartwarming special memories for travelers wanting to touch the original landscapes of Japan.

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Karakoro Square

A retro-modern square near the Horikawa River in Matsue. Centered around "Karakoro Art Studio," a renovated bank building, it’s a relaxation spot for citizens and tourists. Workshops for making Japanese sweets or accessories allow you to easily experience Japan’s "handmade culture." During the rainy season, it becomes a base for the "Enishizuku Umbrella Sky." With stylish cafes and restaurants nearby, it’s a popular spot to enjoy shopping and cultural experiences while feeling the calm air of Matsue, the City of Water.

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Kounkaku

A magnificent Meiji-era Western-style building in Matsue Jozan Park. Built as an accommodation for Emperor Meiji's visit, every detail is lavishly decorated. The contrast between pale green outer walls and white window frames is beautiful. Inside, luxurious furniture and documents are displayed. From the second-floor balcony, you can overlook the greenery around Matsue Castle, experiencing the Meiji "Enlightenment" atmosphere where a Western hall coexists with a Japanese castle. A calm cafe inside offers a leisurely tea time.

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Aoishidatami Street

A small alley from the Edo period connecting Miho Shrine to the port. It’s named for the blue glow of the stones when wet by rain. Once a bustling stop for Kitamaebune trading ships, the street remains lined with old soy sauce storehouses and inns. The sound of stepping on the stones and the distant music from the shrine evoke a mysterious nostalgia. These nostalgic scenes are perfect for photography, offering a deep, rustic atmosphere different from Matsue’s refined style.

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Mihokan Main Building

A historic inn founded in 1905, designated as a National Registered Tangible Cultural Property. Its heavy wooden architecture features an atrium-like hall, exquisite carvings, and antique furnishings. Once visited by literary masters, it’s like a "living history museum." At night, the illuminated interior creates a mystical atmosphere. It’s a precious space in the sacred town of Mihonoseki where you can firsthand experience Japanese architectural beauty and the essence of "Omotenashi."

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Mihonoseki Lighthouse

A beautiful stone lighthouse standing on a cliff at the eastern tip of the Shimane Peninsula. Lighted in 1898, it’s among the "100 Historic Lighthouses of the World." The former lighthouse keeper's residence is now a French restaurant. The panorama of the deep blue Sea of Japan is breathtaking, offering views of the Oki Islands and Mt. Daisen on clear days. It's a perfect spot for travelers who want to enjoy the harmony of Meiji-era heritage and majestic nature.

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Matsue Castle

Completed in 1611, this National Treasure is the only castle in San'in with its original keep. Known as "Chidori Castle" for its black-clad exterior, it features a rugged, powerful structure designed for actual combat. Inside, you can see 17th-century engineering like massive pillars and wells for sieges. The top floor offers views of Matsue and Lake Shinji. Touring the surrounding moats by boat allows you to enjoy the functional and artistic beauty of the fortress.

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Izumo City

A sacred city home to Izumo Taisha, the symbol of the "Land of Mythology" where myriad gods gather. Beyond shrines, it features dynamic spots like "Hinomisaki Lighthouse" and "Inasa-no-hama Beach," where gods are said to have landed. The local "Izumo Soba" is famous for its powerful flavor. Walking through this city where myth and modern life melt together allows you to touch the roots of Japanese spiritual culture that values invisible "En" (fates).

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Tsuwano Town

Called the "Little Kyoto of San'in," this is a beautiful castle town in the mountains. Colorful koi fish swim in the moats lining the streets, and white-walled storehouses create a healing atmosphere. It condenses historical sights like the former clan school "Yorokan" and the red torii gates of "Taikodani Inari Shrine." With its poignant history at "Otome-toge" and a living Zen spirit, it’s a refined, nostalgic town where you can immerse yourself in silence while enjoying tea.

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Iwami Area

Located in the western part of Shimane, this area is centered around the World Heritage site Iwami Ginzan. It breathes a unique culture nurtured by the rough Sea of Japan and deep mountains. The representative art here is "Iwami Kagura," a traditional performance with luxurious costumes and rhythmic music that shakes the soul. With Iwami pottery and the Takatsu River, the clearest stream in Japan, it offers materials that stimulate all five senses. It is highly supported by travelers seeking "authentic regional life" and "real tradition."

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Adachi Museum of Art

A world-recognized ultimate Japanese garden, selected as "No. 1 in Japan" for over 20 consecutive years by a US Japanese garden specialty magazine. The "Dry Landscape Garden" and "Moss Garden" spreading across the vast grounds are perfectly maintained without a single flaw. Viewing the gardens through the museum windows as if they were frames creates "living paintings" and "living hanging scrolls" of breathtaking beauty. The founder Adachi Zenko's belief that "the garden is also a picture" is brilliantly embodied. With an extensive collection of modern Japanese paintings including Yokoyama Taikan, this luxurious space where art and natural beauty unite is...

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Iwami Ginzan

A UNESCO World Heritage site that was once one of the world's leading silver mines. It is highly evaluated for its "environmentally friendly" mining that coexisted with nature. The highlight is the "Ryugenji Mabu" mine shaft, where you can see hand-dug marks in the cool air. The Omori district, with its preserved magistrate's office and merchant houses, is perfect for a stroll. It is a place to satisfy intellectual curiosity and feel the silent Japanese aesthetic within history.

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Ametsuchi (Train)

A luxurious sightseeing train (Kiro 47 series) running in the San'in region, with the concept of "Traveling the Land of Mythology." The body color is a deep navy blue inspired by the Sea of Japan and Mt. Daisen. Inside, materials of Shimane's traditional crafts such as "Oki Pine," "Sekishu Tiles," and "Yasugi Kasuri" are used throughout, making it like a moving traditional craft museum. While running, you can enjoy the superb view of the Sea of Japan from the window along with bentos and sweets made from local ingredients. This special train journey allows you to experience San'in's history, culture,...

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Ichibata Electric Railway

A charming retro local railway connecting Matsue and Izumo. From the train window, you can slowly enjoy the panoramic view of beautiful Lake Shinji and idyllic rural scenery, making the journey itself a highlight of sightseeing. Its unique initiatives, such as retro carriages used as movie sets and bicycle-on-train services, are also attractive. Particularly, the "Dehani 50 series," one of Japan's oldest trains, is very popular with railway fans. Convenient for visiting Izumo Taisha, it is highly recommended for travelers who love "slow travel," reaching their destination while enjoying the daily life of Japan flowing past the window.

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Mt. Sanbe

A beautiful active volcano in Oda City with multiple peaks arranged in a ring. It features a gentle mountain shape and caters to everyone from beginners on hiking courses to serious climbers. At the foot of the mountain, a vast grassland called "Nishi-no-hara" spreads out, where you can enjoy picnics and cycling amid peaceful scenery with grazing cattle. Additionally, Sanbe Onsen is located nearby, perfect for healing fatigue after climbing. You can feel the energy of great nature throughout the year with beautiful autumn leaves and winter snowscapes. It is a place where you can experience both the unique terrain...

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Kobayashi Kobo

A workshop in Matsue City that produces Shimane's traditional crafts such as "Matsue Anesama Dolls" and simple, warm handmade toys. Each piece is carefully crafted using traditional techniques, showcasing the excellence of Japan's "meticulous handiwork." Dolls made with colorful Chiyogami paper and nostalgic wooden toys are very popular as Japanese souvenirs. You can observe the craftsmen's skills up close, and if the timing is right, you may even experience making them yourself. It is a precious place where you can touch the simple yet deep world of crafts, which can be called the roots of Japan's "kawaii" culture.

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