Top Things to do

• Okuizumo Tane Museum of Natural History

  Shimane Pref. Nitagunokuizumochou Sajiro 236-1

  This is a museum as well as providing accommodation and offers an original exhibition with the theme of the evolution of the universe and the history of life. The museum exhibits unique displays of the earth's history through a time tunnel, fossils of the ocean and dinosaurs and images of Japanese space exploration. Various accommodation plans are offered as well.

• Okuizumo Vineyard

  Shimane Pref. Unnanshi Kisukichoujiryou 2273-1

  "This vineyard, which manufactures and sells wine grown according to the culture of Okuizumo, Shimane Prefecture, is located in about seven hectares of agricultural land called the ""Forest of Food"". Visitors can taste wine and enjoy meals and a cafe in the guesthouse. Underground, where the wine is stored, there is also a gallery exhibiting a variety of artwork such as paintings, photographs and ceramics which can be enjoyed leisurely in the calming surroundings."

• Peony Garden Daikonshima-Honjin

  Shimane Pref. Matsueshi Yatsukachounyukou 441-1

  This is where visitors can enjoy viewing peony flowers and also see Tottori goldfish (Izumo nankin), known as swimming jewels and designated as a Natural Monument. The garden sells peony pot plants and Izumo nankin goldfish. Various other seasonal flowers can be enjoyed as well. The season for peonies is between mid-April to mid-May and between October and January.

• Tamatsukuri Onsen Foot Bath

  Shimane Pref. Matsueshi Tamayuchoutamatsukuri (Along Yu Yu River)

  This hot spring is said to be the oldest hot spring for beautiful skin in Japan. Its name is even written in Izumo Fudoki, an historic description of local culture. The water is slight in alkaline, colorless and transparent. In the spa town there are also many foot baths where the locals gather. These are covered so people can enjoy them in any kind of weather and are popular.

• Gassan Toda Castle Ruins

  Shimane Pref. Yasugishi Hirosechoumachichou 752 (Yasugi City History Museum)

  The historic castle of the Amago clan, considered impregnable due to its size, was said to be one of the strongholds of the Warring States Period. In 2006 is was selected as one of the top 100 Castles in Japan. It is also famous as the castle where warlord Yamanaka Shikanosuke came from. There are also statues of Amago Tsunehisa and Shikanosuke in the grounds and it is a famous spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring.

• Shinjiko Shijimikan

  Shimane Pref. Matsueshi Chidorichou 36

  This center provides a variety of information regarding the Japanese basket clams grown in Lake Shinji and is situated in the center of Matsue Shinji-ko Hot Springs. The facility includes a direct sales market selling fresh clams and famous confectionery from well-known Matsue shops. There is also free footbath of 100% water from the hot springs of Lake Shinji, Matsue, and is a great place to visit.

• Lake Shinji Sunset Spot

  Shimane Pref. Matsueshi Sodeshichou

  This is a spot where visitors can see the sun setting over Lake Shinji and the Yomegashima Islands. You can also enjoy a walking course or places to sit and rest on a terrace while watching the sun go down. There is also a carpark making it convenient. Information regarding the position and time of sunset, as well as the best spot for a photo is provided so please check this out beforehand.

• Matsue Horikawa Local Beer Hall

  Shimane Pref. Matsueshi Kurodachou 509-1

  "This is a beer hall where you can enjoy a Matsue local beer called ""Beer Hearn"". Also, at the beer restaurant visitors can eat Shimane Wagyu Beef and Shinjiko Shicchin, seven types of seafoods that can be found in the Seto Inland Sea. You can also enjoy five types of local beers at the beer counter overlooking the souvenir corner and the beer factory. It is a convenient facility that is walking distance from the Matsue Castle and Shiomi Nawate tourist site lined with traditional Japanese houses. "

• "Hidamari-no-Oka Large Maze ""Dragon Maze"""

  Shimane Pref. Unnanshi Daitouchoukamisase 294

  "This is a large maze famous for its ""Heart Station"", ""Hidamari Hill"" and ""gigantic maze"". There are a variety of attractions such as a racing track for children on bicycles without pedals, and a ground golf area. The facility can be enjoyed in many ways and there is also a kitchen and a barbecue house. It is perfect for children's events and excursions."