Shimane Highlights Tour – Discover Japan’s Hidden Treasures

Day 1:

Upon arriving in Izumo from Haneda Airport, your first destination is the Tatara Ironworks in Okuizumo. This is the only place in the world where “tamahagane,” an essential material for Japanese swords, is made. After visiting the remains of the ironworks, which are said to have inspired the setting of the film “Princess Mononoke,” you will witness a powerful demonstration of sword forging by a master swordsmith. That evening, you will stay at a hot spring inn by the beautiful shores of Lake Shinji.

Day 2:

Your day begins with a visit to Matsue Castle, a National Treasure, where you can climb the surviving keep and feel like a lord of old Japan! Next, you’ll visit the Adachi Museum of Art, home to a Japanese garden that has held the top spot in an American Japanese garden magazine for 21 consecutive years. Take your time to appreciate not only the stunning gardens but also the collection of works by Taikan Yokoyama.

In the afternoon, you will visit Izumo Taisha, one of the most famous shrines in Japan. As you stroll along the approach, enjoy some street food and shopping while taking in the sacred atmosphere with sights such as the grand shimenawa rope, the large torii gate, and the pine-lined path. That evening, you will stay at a hot spring inn renowned for its skin-beautifying waters, considered the best in Japan.

After dinner at the inn, you will have a special opportunity to watch a performance of Iwami Kagura. Enjoy this special time as you watch the traditional performance, complete with glittering costumes, a fearsome giant serpent, and dances synchronized with music.

Day 3:

On the third day, you will visit the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The nearby town of Omori, which flourished thanks to the silver mine, retains its historic charm, and walking through its old streets while shopping at small local shops will provide memorable encounters with the locals.

Your final stop is the Sekishu Washi Museum, which boasts over 1,000 years of history. Here, you can try your hand at papermaking and take home the washi paper you create. Why not record your memories of this trip on your handmade paper?

In the evening, you will arrive back at Haneda Airport. After these fulfilling three days, you’ll surely have a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture. We hope you’ll return to this charming small region again!