Matsue

Shimane Prefecture lies on the Sea of Japan coast of western Honshu and is often described as Japan's land of myths. Its quiet capital, Matsue, sits between Lake Shinji and Lake Nakaumi and is known for its original castle, historic waterways and a slower pace than the country's major cities.

The prefecture's spiritual heart is Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine, one of Japan's oldest and most important Shinto shrines and a centre of the matchmaking deity Okuninushi. In the old lunar calendar's tenth month, tradition says the gods gather in Izumo. Matsue Castle, one of only twelve remaining original castles in Japan, is a national treasure, while Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Shimane offers several distinct areas to explore. Matsue has Lake Shinji sunsets and Horikawa boat tours, Izumo is home to the grand shrine, Hinomisaki lighthouse and soba culture, and Ōda preserves the silver mine and Yunotsu Onsen. Yasugi hosts the Adachi Museum of Art and its celebrated Japanese garden, Tsuwano adds a traditional San'in atmosphere with Taikodani Inari Shrine, and the Oki Islands, a UNESCO Global Geopark, bring coastal landscapes and island life.

Food and culture reflect the sea and mountains: Izumo soba, Shimane Wagyu, fresh seafood such as blackthroat seaperch and local sake are regional staples. Matsue also preserves the legacy of Lafcadio Hearn, the Irish-Greek writer who introduced Japan to Western readers from his home there.

For travellers, Shimane is a calm alternative to Japan's big-city routes, suited to culture, nature, onsen stays and slower exploration, while its UNESCO sites, traditional crafts and local events also appeal to business and incentive visitors.