山陰地方

Tottori Castle The imposing Tottori Castle was constructed in the middle of the 16th century on the summit of Mt. Kyusho at an altitude of 263m. Currently, the ruins are all that remain. The ruins include an extremely rare rounded Ishigaki(stone wall) that cannot be seen anywhere else. The surrounding area, Kyusho Park, has been maintained as a place of relaxation for Tottori citizens. The beautiful Tottori Castle actually has a tragic history. A well known Japanese historical tale that is still told today. In the year 1581, Toyotomi Hideyoshi (a powerful feudal lord of the time) sent troops to Tottori Castle to attack Kikkawa Tsuneie, the lord of the castle. The attackers had merchants buy up all of the local rice at a premium price. The castle inhabitants had no choice but to rely on their stockpile of food as their supply routes were cut off. Around October, four months after the siege began, starvation had well and truly set in. Kikkawa Tsuneie, with no other options, surrendered and committed suicide as a sacrifice to save his soldiers. The majestic Western-style building at the base of the ruins, Jinpukaku, is a national important cultural property. #visittottori #VisitShimane #traveljapan #sanin #tottori #shimane #castle #tottoricastle #traveljapan #traveltottori #VisitShimane #culture #history

One of Japan's Top 100 Castles "Matsue Castle" The spectacular four seasons of Matsue Castle. This masterpiece was built in 1611 by Horio Yoshiharu and was designated as a national treasure in 2015 because of its extant tenshu (watch tower). Around the country only 12 castles with the original watch tower still stand. Of these, only 5 are designated as National Treasures and Matsue Castle is one of them! The main tower has survived all this time while others perished through fires, earthquakes and the many castle demolitions in the Meiji Period. Yoshiharu Horio commissioned the castle and after five years of construction, the imposing fortress was completed. Built to see real battles, the thick black walls present a powerful and imposing visage. However, being produced after the last great war of feudal Japan, it never even saw a battle. Come enjoy the castle in all four seasons. Not only can you climb to the top for the Matsue and Lake Shinji views, but also see the cherry blossoms in spring, the vibrant greens in summer, colorful foliage in autumn, and snow in winter. You can even take a boat ride around the surrounding moat when you visit! #sanin #tottori #shimane #castle #yonago #matsuecastle #visitjapan #traveljapan #visittottori #visitshimane

CRUSH ON DAISEN！ How to stay in Winter Resort Daisen. Tottri,Japan

Yonago Castle Ruins Situated 90m above sea level atop Minatoyama mountain, you can get an amazing 360 degree panoramic view of Yonago’s skyline, cityscape, mountains, and the sea. At only a short 15-minute stroll from Yonago Station, the center of Yonago City, you’ll reach this historic castle ruins in no time. It is said that Yonago Castle was constructed in 1591 at the end of the Warring States period. Kikkawa Hiroie became the owner and the castle retains the characteristics of the Warring States period. Although the building is in ruins, the impressive stone walls and cornerstones still remain intact. The stone walls were created with all of the wisdom and skill of the master masons of that era. The spirit in their craftsmanship still portrays the history of the site. #yonago #castle #yonagocastle #tottori #shimane #ruins #sanin

Taikodani Inari Shrine, Shimane Prefecture The 7th Tsuwano feudal lord, Norisada Kamei, prayed for the peace of the clan and a peaceful life for all of the inhabitants. He built a shrine with this purpose in mind and entreated the deity from Fushimi Inari Grand Shrine in Kyoto. The shrine was built on top of Taikodani and thus began Taikodani Inari Shrine. Similar to Fushimi Inari Grand Shrine, there are thousands of iconic Japanese red gates (Senbon Torii). You can imagine yourself being transported to another world as you walk through the gates. The contrast between the vermilion of the torii and the green of the trees in Taikodani is a sight to behold! #taikodani #tsuwano #winter #torii #sanin #tottori #shimane

Farm Stay in the good old days. Tottori Wakasa town、Japan. For more information https://youtu.be/MkO9mtW1SeA

It's still cold in Tottori! How about the area you live in? Check out the video and take one step ahead to feel the atmosphere of Tottori's spring! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SHdhid4H7Q&list=PLKbsZkRBUS56lh7UgFENDB4z4dKpB2GVc&index=12

Take a trip back in time when you visit Kurayoshi City and its surrounds: an ancient hot spring, historic townscape, and local traditional crafts await! Stroll through streets lined with white-walled storehouses and dotted with carp-filled waterways in Kurayoshi’s old merchant quarters. Make your own Hakota doll, a centuries-old local toy and good luck charm. When you’re ready to truly unwind, head to nearby Sekigane Onsen. Ranked as one of Japan’s top 100 hot springs, this millennium-old resort boasts remarkably clear and odorless “platinum” radon waters renowned for their healing properties. Once it’s a bit warmer, get outdoors and check out Mt. Utsubuki and the local hiking trails, or even visit a wasabi field!

In Yonago, there is a crab restaurant called Sakaiminato Kani Shokudo. Here, customers can challenge a 40-minute all you can eat snow crab course (4,000 yen for men and 3,000 yen for women). According to the staff, the current record for most crabs eaten in this time period is 8. Boiled, the crabs are served whole, and competing customers must also eat the meat in the body, so not only eating speed but also meat picking speed becomes important. How many crabs do you think you could pick clean in 40 minutes?

One stunning lake, two fantastic hot springs. Enjoy beautiful views of Lake Togo from the soothing mineral-rich waters of Hawai Onsen on the western shore, or Togo Onsen on the southern shore. Warm your bones in open-air baths by the water’s edge, feel the crisp fresh air on your face, and gaze out at this picturesque scene that’s considered one of the Sanin area's "Eight Beautiful Sights.” Which shore will you start with? ▼Hawai Onsen https://www.tottori-tour.jp/en/accommodation/1059/ （Photos provided by Bokoro） ▼Togo Onsen https://www.tottori-tour.jp/en/accommodation/788/ （Photos provided by Yozyokan）

When you hear the word “train”, you probably imagine a utilitarian form of public transportation; Ametuchi, the new sightseeing train that runs between Tottori and Shimane, defies this image. With a design that gives expression to the beautiful sky and sea of San’in, innovative utilization of cultural crafts as interior fixtures, and use of local wood in tables and seats, the train itself becomes part of the sightseeing experience. Also, onboard food and drink service includes culturally thematic box lunches made from local ingredients. In even minor details, Ametuchi is more than simply meets the eye. Of course, you can also turn your attention to the beautiful scenery outside the window.

Perhaps you already knew about the strong manga culture prevalent in Tottori. Maybe you even knew that it has a globally acclaimed figure manufacturer. But did you know that it has a large scale figure museum? The Kurayoshi Figure Museum exhibits approximately 2,000 elaborately crafted figures and offers various workshops, and, as an indoor attraction, it makes a great destination for a rainy or snowy day.

☀️Izumo by Train: A Summer Day’s Journey – PART 2😎 The 2nd part of the summer video is here!!🥳🥳 Click on the link below to watch the full video! https://youtu.be/1fbz2WYEqmk Camila, Jill and Tanja, three Coordinators of International Relations living in Izumo, continue their seasonal journeys through the city! As you might have guessed, this time we showcase a one-day summer tour, using the JR train line that runs through the south side of the city.🚃 We hope you’ll enjoy watching it, and that it will give you ideas for sightseeing in Izumo, AKA the Land of the Gods. It will also give you an idea of what it’s like to travel under Japan’s coronavirus prevention measures. Here is a link to the first part: https://youtu.be/KRuC0tvcqMI Do you remember our spring journey?🌸 “Izumo by Bike: A Spring Day’s Journey” Here is the link to our very first video: https://youtu.be/ECJoFrBC4xY Experience the trips from the inside by checking out Camila’s pictures on her Instagram account: @birdmad_ Find her pictures with the hashtag #ancientizumosummer Find photos of the spring edition with #ancientizumospring Note: if you visit us in summer, please hydrate yourself! This video was shot around the end of August, and the weather is really hot and humid at this time of the year.☀️ Below is the route in this video: - JR Nishi-Izumo Station - JR Oda Station - Roadside Station Michi no Eki Kirara Taki - Kirara Beach - Ramen Restaurant Kai Interested in more places?🤓 From Nishi-Izumo Station, you can also access the Izumo Folk Crafts Museum by taking the North exit, the opposite side from South exit we use to visit the botanical garden in the video. The museum is also a 10 min walk from Nishi-Izumo Station! Find out why Izumo should be on your Japan bucket list ⇩ https://ancient-japan-izumo.com/ Don’t forget to subscribe to the YouTube channel to receive a notification for the next video! We hope we can welcome you soon in Izumo, and until then stay safe!😃 #izumo #ancientjapanizumo #shimane #japan #summer #beach #kirara #kirarabeach #hananosato #botanicalgarden #toki #ibis #birds #crestedibis #japanesecrestedibis #flowers #ancientizumosummer #cafenakakura #ramenrestaurantkai #figicecream

Do you miss the beach and sunshine at Yonago City? I sure do! The rejuvenating waters at Kaike Onsen will surely relieve you from the everyday stress. One step outside the hotel, a dazzling white, sandy beach awaits. Appreciate the perfect harmony weaved by the majestic Mt. Daisen and the beautiful coastline―it is truly a delight. Having rewarded your eyes and body, it’s time to treat your stomach with Tottori Prefecture’s proud delicacies. The succulent snow crab, or the chewy and irresistible white squid―Yonago presents you with its top quality fruits of the sea. Which would you opt for?

Do you like Japanese ramen? In Japan, there are many types of ramen, and each region offers their own flavors. In Tottori Prefecture, you can try gyukotsu ramen, an unusual type of ramen that uses soup made from beef bone broth. Characterized by a rich yet light and refreshing taste, don’t miss this rare ramen on your next visit to Tottori. Just make sure to give yourself plenty of time because lines frequently form at many of the more popular shops, especially during the lunchtime rush!

Goodbye 2020 and hello 2021! Start your new year with a hike to the Akechitoge Pass for an otherworldly view of the sea of clouds. Be sure to get there before sunrise and watch the light slowly breaking through the darkness―this majestic scene is absolutely worth it! If that’s not enough, join the Japanese in doing “hatsumode”―visit a shrine or a temple to pray for good fortune in the coming year. Head to Ogamiyama Shrine to pray for success in competitions and safe childbirth; Kanemochi Shrine for luck in money; or Hakuto Shrine for love. If you’re really keen, why not consider a shrine-visit tour around Tottori prefecture and gather as much luck as you can for the year ahead?

Happy New Year! How did you spend the New Year’s holiday? In Japan, we have a custom of writing our New Year’s resolutions and goals using brush and ink called kakizome. The image shows this year’s kakizome, and it means “please come to Tottori”. In 2021, we hope that the impact of coronavirus lessens, and everyone will be able to come and visit Japan and Tottori.

"𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒈𝒂𝒓𝒅𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒔, 𝒔𝒐 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒂𝒌, 𝒂 𝒑𝒊𝒄𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒔𝒄𝒓𝒐𝒍𝒍; 𝒂 '𝒍𝒊𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈' 𝒑𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈." -𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢 𝐙𝐞𝐧𝐤𝐨 (𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐮𝐦 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐫𝐭) Ranked the #1 Japanese Garden in Japan for the 18th consecutive year since 2003 by Sukiya Living Magazine: The Journal of Japanese Gardening. 🎉 ▶While being a museum, Adachi Museum of Art consists of 6 gardens: Tea Garden, Moss Garden, Dry Landscape Garden, Pond Garden, and White Gravel and Pine Garden. The different seasons highlight different aspects of the garden, allowing visitors to enjoy the gardens all throughout the year. The philosophy of the founder was that gardens could be appreciated as 'living' paintings which is the reason why many viewing spots for the garden contain picture frame-like windows that visitors view the garden through. ▶And after viewing the magnificent gardens, you can view the massive collection of artwork ranging from some of the modern Japanese art masters like Yokoyama Taikan, Kawai Kanjiro, and Kitaoji Rosanjin to contemporary Japanese paintings by leading painters of the current Japanese art world. Visit throughout the year and you can see the gardens change throughout the seasons. Artwork exhibitions are also changed throughout the year and carefully selected so visitors always have something new to see.

What are your favorite gardens to visit in Japan❓ Did you know that Shimane has many gardens to visit, and two of them are ranked in the top 5 Japanese gardens in all of Japan‼ Ranking by Sukiya Living Magazine: The Journal of Japanese Gardening. Adachi Museum of Art is ranked at #1, keeping its spot for the 18th year in a row since 2003. 🎊 Minami-kan (Ryokan) is ranked at #3, which it has held since 2018. 🥳 ⬆5⃣0⃣ Also in the Top 50, Yuushien Garden, Choraku-en (Ryokan), Kokokuji Temple which are ranked #25 -#27. Kasuien Minami (Ryokan) is ranked at #42 and Saginoyusou Annex (Ryokan) is ranked at #44. ▶ You can view the complete list here: https://gardenrankings.com

📣Extra! Extra! Read all about it!! Shimane Spotlight Magazine It comes in English, Japanese, Portuguese!! Two Americans, who are now living in Izumo, have started a free magazine that offers you insight to the local spots and gourmet in Shimane. You can find the magazine on the shelves next to other tourist brochures or visit their website to view the online versions of the magazine. FB: Shimane Spotlight​ Website: https://shimanespotlight.com

❄The snow paused for a bit, so we decided to go to the castle....🌨☃ as we crossed the moat and started to climb the stairs the snow picked up again. It snowed so hard we couldn't even see the castle from the usual viewing points. After a while the snow eased up for a bit and the clouds broke open to a blue sky revealing the castle. 🏯 If you are going to visit the castle during this time be careful of the snow and watch your step on the stairs.. We will visit again... when its not snowing so hard that your cameras stop working..😅

📣 To all the Shimane fans around the world 🌏, Thank you for all the support on our page this year, we finally made it to 10k likes! Unfortunately, this year has been a difficult year to travel, but we hope we can inspire you to come and visit Shimane once it is safe again. To all of our supporters, Shimane fans, Japan aficionados, adventure seekers, travelers, Japanese food lovers, nature explorers, everyone and anyone, Happy New Year to you all and we hope to see you next year! Here is a New Years card from all of us at Discover Shimane. 🎆 - Discover.Shimane✌

[Shimane, Japan] Snow crab - A taste of the Shimane winter at “Kani-goya” (Crab shack) 　 The winter specialty of the San’in Region, where Shimane Prefecture is located, is none other than snow crab! In November, when the fishing season begins in the San'in region, delicious snow crab can be enjoyed all over Shimane!🦀 Every year, the winter-exclusive kani-goya crab shack is open for only two months near JR Matsue Station! Customers can enjoy the high-quality snow crabs, caught in the waters off the coast of the San’in Region, delivered fresh from the market at a low-price self-service format that allows them to cook the crabs to their own liking!✨ 　 There are also many other seafood items to choose from!🐟 　 If you like sake, we recommend trying "kani no kora zake" using the sake available from the three local Matsue breweries! Pour sake into the crab shell while it is still warm on the grill, let the sake warm up, and enjoy! 　 Coronavirus safety measures have been put in place to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort while eating. (see images below) 　 If you love crab or just curious about trying fresh local crab we definitely recommend eating at kani-goya when you visit Shimane, Japan! 　 [Open period] 2020/12/4 (Fri) to 2021/1/31 (Sun) (Closed: 2020/12/28 to 2021/1/8) 　 [Business hours] 11:00 to 21:00 (Last order: 20:30) [Reservations] Reservations by phone are required in advance 090-4100-6942 (Japanese language only) [Access] From JR Matsue Station, 3-min by taxi or 15 min on foot https://goo.gl/maps/qVZfsw5Gp5qYrS5t9 　 ▼Read more about Shimane’s snow crab: https://www.kankou-shimane.com/en/?p=3526

[Tsuwano, Shimane] Do you love winter in Japan?❄⛄ If you visit Tsuwano, a little former castle town located at the western Shimane, and if it is snowing, you might be able to see a thousand of vermillion torii gates covered with beautiful white snow. ❄❄⛄⛩⛩⛩⛩❄⛄❄ . Taikodani Inari Shrine, one of the five great Inari Shrines in Japan, is just a short walk from central Tsuwano Town. The view of the path leading up to the main shrine buildings on the side of a mountain is absolutely stunning....!! . . [Access] 30 min on foot from JR Tsuwano Station. . . Taikodani Inari Shrine (Japanese Site) http://taikodani.jp/

❄First snowfall of the winter in Yasugi city, Shimane. Maybe we might have a white Christmas this year☃❗ The weather is a little warmer during the day, but I wonder if it is going to snow again tonight 🌨❔

[Shimane, Japan] Beautiful! Over 2,000,000 daffodils against the backdrop of the ocean! 　 Introducing Karaoto Suisen Park - a lovely place to see daffodils this time of year! 　 Karaoto Suisen Park is located in Masuda, Shimane Prefecture. Also known as “Daffodil Hill,” the beloved local spot is home to over 2,000,000 daffodils, which are planted and cared for by the help of the locals. 　 The best time to see them is from December 20 to the end of January. *Full bloom season depends greatly upon the weather 　 The area also consists of a rare geological dike formation nicknamed “Karaoto no Jagan” (snake-like rocks), as it resembles a large, long, black snake. The rock formation is a Japanese natural monument. 　 When you enter the park, being surrounded by 2,000,000 daffodils against the backdrop of the blue sky and ocean will take your breath away! The walking path has ups and downs, so wear comfortable shoes! 　 ーーーーーーーーーーーーー 　 ▼ Get a sneak peek of Karaoto Suisen Park! https://youtu.be/NF2vjIxaAqQ 　 📍Access Car: 5 minutes (via narrow and winding road) from JR Sanin Line, Kamate Station Bus: Approximately 20 mins on foot from Nishihirabara Bus Stop of Iwami Kotsu Bus (Hamada-Masuda Line) 　 Masuda City Tourist Information Center: https://masudashi.com/en/KaraotoDaffodilPark.html 　 Tourism info about the Iwami region (western Shimane): https://www.all-iwami.com/en/

Susa Jinja - An ancient shrine dedicated to the spirit of the heroic god Susanoo no Mikoto ⛩ 📜This ancient shrine is mentioned in the “Izumo no Kuni Fudoki” (a book from the 8th century describing the life of people at the time). Susa Jinja is located on the bank of the Susagawa River, a branch of the Kandogawa River running from north to south in central Shimane Prefecture. This region is strongly related to Susanoo no Mikoto, a heroic god who, according to Japanese mythology, eradicated the multi-headed dragon Yamata no Orochi. In “Izumo no Kuni Fudoki,” the passage about Susa village says that Susanoo came here, and after he finished settling the land, he said: “This land may be small, but it is good. This land shall not be named by the nature it has; it shall bear my name.” Thus, he named this place “Susa”, and according to the book, he decided to link his soul to this place even after his death. Shrines related to Susanoo are common throughout Japan, but this one is the only one where Susanoo’s soul is enshrined, and that also worships Susanoo’s wife, Inatahime no Mikoto, and her parents, Ashinazuchi no Mikoto and Tenazochi no Mikoto. These four gods all appear in the legend of Yamata no Orochi. The shrine has a strong reputation for answering prayers about good relations and new encounters, the prosperity of one’s descendants, the well-being of one’s family, and protection from various harms. The existence of this ancient shrine can be confirmed in “Izumo no Kuni Fudoki” and “Engishiki” (a 10th century book of Japanese laws and regulations). The shrine’s main building is in the “taishazukuri” architectural style. It was reconstructed in 1861, and has been designated as a Cultural Property by the prefectural government. Though it is a small shrine lost between the hills of Izumo, surrounded by greenery, a mystical atmosphere floats here. The Japanese media often present this shrine as THE “power spot” of Japan— a place recognized by Japanese people for its spiritual energy… 🐲Read the legend about Susanoo defeating the many-headed dragon Yamata no Orochi at: https://ancient-japan-izumo.com/history/chapter4　 #susanoo #orochi #mythologicalcreature #mythology #japanesemythology #sada #susa #susashrine #susajinja #izumo #ancientjapan #ancientjapanizumo #shimane #landofthegods #history #historyofizumo #izumomyths

[Donchicchi Kagura Clock Tower] @ JR Hamada Station in Hamada city 👹From 8 in the morning till 9 at night, every hour on the hour, for 5 minutes the clock tower opens up to reveal dancing Iwami Kagura marionettes. ▶Watch the video of the dancing marionettes here: https://youtu.be/Jb9we5AKFwM

The Oki Islands are often associated with warm summer weather and activities such as sea kayaking and hiking. Not many visitors know that the islands have another side to them - the winter season with strong winds, high waves, and once in a few years, a fair amount of snow. This year’s snowfall did not disappoint, and the residents could enjoy the scenery of the islands covered in a white blanket of snow. While snowfall is not a surprise on the biggest island - Dōgo, the residents of the smaller Dōzen Islands usually do not have many opportunities to enjoy winter fun, because the snow melts there quite quickly due to the differences in climate and landscape. This year was a treat for children, and a fair amount of trouble for car users. Have a look at the pictures of the islands covered in snow, the next opportunity might be in a few years! Discover Shimane Discover another Japan San'in Visit Japan Visit Japan International Visit Japan AU 大山隠岐国立公園/Daisen-Oki National Park #snow #snowman #okiislands #okiislandsgeopark #winterscenery

On 28th November, the 7 areas of Chiburijima Island all made their own “Snake God” – a huge snake made from straw. The ritual is carried out on the same day every year. The “Snake God” is around 12m long and about 15cm in diameter. The straw snake has horns, a tongue, ears, fangs, an open mouth and mane; the straw snake looks very much like a dragon🐉! The locals also make snake eggs from straw, and the eggs are woven into the snake. The number of participants joining the ritual has increased, and not just only men and children, but recently the ladies of the areas also participated. Once the straw snake is completed, it will be coiled up in the hall of the temple, and then purified with sake and salt. After that, the locals carry the “Snake God” and parade through the neighbourhood, which will then be wrapped around the sacred tree. The “Snake God” is made to pray for various things, such as warding off disease, giving thanks for the good harvest of the year, and praying for the prosperity of descendants. In some areas, it is said that wrapping a child with the straw snake and hitting the child’s head with the tail will improve the child’s academic performance. The origin of the ritual is unknown, but the straw “Snake God”, introduced from the region of Izumo, is said to be the prototype of the shimenawa rope, a special rope of the Shinto religion used to mark sacred boundaries. Discover Shimane Discover another Japan San'in Visit Japan AU Visit Japan International

Shimane Prefecture is looking for foreign residents of Shimane who would like to participate in a trial tour around the Oki Islands UNESCO Global Geopark. In this tour you can not only experience the culture of the Oki Islands – such as a stroll through shrines with a long history, a local lunch in an old house, a tour of a local Japanese sake brewery, and dyeing your own tenugui towel in local clay – but also enjoy cycling and hiking through the splendid nature of the Oki Islands, accompanied by an English-speaking geopark guide. Date: 13-15 November, 2020 Please see the promotional flyer for details! Discover Shimane Discover another Japan San'in

Come to the Oki Islands with this special ferry ticket, collect stamps by staying at a designated accommodation and joining selected activities, and get the return ferry ticket (2nd class) for free! [Update] As the summer ends, the line up of available water-related activities changes. We will keep updating the list of recommended activities, so please make sure to check the latest information. Discover Shimane Discover another Japan San'in 大山隠岐国立公園/Daisen-Oki National Park

Information about Roads' Closures on Dōgo Island [updated] Due to heavy rain on the 7th of August some roads are closed on Dōgo Island. The following sightseeing places are closed: ・Chichi-sugi Japanese Cedar ・Nagu-saki Cape ・Okutsudo Walking Trail ・Ojirobana Park (Candle Rock Lookout) Please check the below maps before travelling around Dōgo Island. Currently, we do not know when these roads will be opened again. We apologise for the inconvenience and thank you for your understanding. For current information, please contact Okinoshima Town Tourism Association. TEL: 08512-2-0787 (*an English speaker is not present all the time) Mail: dogoport@tx.miracle.ne.jp

Following the videos presenting Chiburjima and Nishinoshima, today's video is from Dogo Island (Okinoshima Town). Dogo is the largest island of the archipelago, and offers views of not only beautiful coastlines, but also deep forests with waterfalls, hiking trails and interesting rock formations. It is also a place of rich culture, with many traditional festivals happening around the year. Click the link below to discover some of them! https://youtu.be/o7C1gEafj1U Discover another Japan San'in Discover Shimane #okiislands #visittheokiislands

Today we introduce one of the recommended sunset spots - Yui Maenosu, which is an intertidal shore platform located on Dogo Island (Okinoshima Town). When the waves are calm the water acts like a mirror, reflecting the sunlight and making this an especially charming place. The sea is very shallow at the platform so bring your sandals and dip your feet in the water while you enjoy the scenery! Access: 40 min by car from Saigo Port (Okinoshima Town, Dogo Island)

Continuing from the video of Chiburijima Island a few posts before, here is a video of Nishinoshima Island. Especially, at the start of the video you can enjoy the highlight and the pride of the island Matengai Cliff and Kuniga Coastline shot with a drone camera. It captures the dynamic coastline formation. What you see today is the mother nature’s work of art created with the rough waves, wind, and rain of the Sea of Japan eroding away the coastline. As the saying goes a picture says more than a thousand words. So, please check it out! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rbqJAcy17VI&t=25s If you have any enquiries regarding a visit to Nishinoshima please do not hesitate to contact the Nishinoshima tourist information office (Nishinoshima Tourism Association). The friendly native English speaking staff would be more than happy to help you. The link to the enquiry form is in the comment.

Oki has entered the rainy season, known as “tsuyu”, earlier this month, and the blooming hydrangeas are colouring the islands in beautiful shades of pink, purple and blue. There are many places on the islands where you can admire the beauty of hydrangeas and here are a few popular locations: Dōgo Island (Okinoshima Town): Shirashima Lookout (Pic. 1) Here at the northernmost coast of the Oki Islands, the Endless Summer hydrangeas bloom until autumn, decorating the walking trail in shades of purple and blue. Shirashima Lookout is 35 minutes by car from Saigo Pōrt. Photo credit: Okinoshima Tourism Association Nishinoshima Island (Nishinoshima Town): Yurahime Shrine (Pic. 2) Other than squid carvings and cherry blossoms, Yurahime Shrine is also one of the best locations on the island to enjoy these charming flowers. Yurahime Shrine is 15 minutes by car from Beppu Port. Photo credit: Nishinoshima Town Nakanoshima Island (Ama Town): Oki Shrine (Pic. 3) Don’t forget to stop by Oki Shrine and check out the gorgeous hydrangeas there. Oki Shrine is only 15 minutes by bicycle from Hishiura Port. Photo credit: Ama Town Tourism Association Chiburijima Island (Chibu Village): Hotel Chibu-no-sato (Pic. 4) Come and enjoy the different attractive shades of blue on a sunny day: sky blue, hydrangea blue and sea blue. Hotel Chibu-no-sato is 7 minutes by car from Kurii Port. Photo credit: Chiburijima Tourism Association #okiislands #hydrangea Discover Shimane Discover another Japan San'in

☀️🚃Izumo by Train: A Summer Day’s Journey – PART 1🚃☀️ The summer video is here!!😃🥳🎉 Click on the link below to watch the full video! https://youtu.be/KRuC0tvcqMI Camila, Jill and Tanja, three Coordinators of International Relations living in Izumo, continue their seasonal journeys through the city! As you might have guessed, this time we showcase a one-day summer tour, using the JR train line that runs through the south side of the city.☀️🚃😎 We hope you’ll enjoy watching it, and that it will give you ideas for sightseeing in Izumo, AKA the Land of the Gods. It will also give you an idea of what it’s like to travel under Japan’s coronavirus prevention measures. Do you remember our spring journey? “Izumo by Bike: A Spring Day’s Journey” Here is the link to our very first video: https://youtu.be/ECJoFrBC4xY Experience the trips from the inside by checking out Camila’s pictures on her Instagram account: @birdmad_ Find her pictures with the hashtag #ancientizumosummer Find photos of the spring edition with #ancientizumospring Note: if you visit us in summer, please hydrate yourself! This video was shot around the end of August, and the weather is really hot and humid at this time of the year.🥤 Below is the route in this video: - Café Nakakura - JR Izumo-shi Station - JR Nishi-Izumo Station - Shimane Hana no Sato Botanical Garden - Izumo Crested Ibis Breeding Center’s Observation Gallery Interested in more places? From Nishi-Izumo Station, you can also access the Izumo Folk Crafts Museum by taking the North exit, the opposite side from South exit we use to visit the botanical garden in the video. The museum is also a 10 min walk from Nishi-Izumo Station!🤓 Find out why Izumo should be on your Japan bucket list ⇩ https://ancient-japan-izumo.com/ Don’t forget to subscribe to the YouTube channel to receive a notification for the next video! We hope we can welcome you soon in Izumo, and until then stay safe!😃 #izumo #ancientjapanizumo #shimane #japan #summer #beach #kirara #kirarabeach #hananosato #botanicalgarden #toki #ibis #birds #crestedibis #japanesecrestedibis #flowers #ancientizumosummer #cafenakakura #ramenrestaurantkai #figicecream

Kiriake Shinji – The Kiriake Festival of Susa Shrine⛩ This Shinto ritual celebrates the abundant harvests of fall by welcoming the gods, and is held each year on the afternoon of August 15th at Susa Shrine. The festival is also commonly called “nenbutsu odori,” after a dance performed during the event, and has been designated as an Intangible Cultural Property by the prefectural government.📜 The full nenbutsu odori is composed of 5 stages. Gorgeous ritual flowers (“jinjibana,” huge decorative structures made of paper) are used, and 6 people dance while singing in unison “Namu Amida Butsu” (a Buddhist prayer) to the rhythm of a flute, repeating the same dance moves over and over again. In the Japanese consciousness, this dance is a symbol of summer.☀️ The festival is said to have originated in the year 776, and though it is a Shinto event, its ritual music and dancing is thought to have been influenced by Buddhist pilgrims during medieval times. 🤓 ＃izumo #ancientjapan #sada #susajinja #shimane #ancientjapanizumo #shrine #festival #summer #buddhism #shintoism #susashrine

The Chinese Characters in “Izumo” – 出雲 🌫 Do you know the meaning of the Chinese characters in the name “Izumo?”🧐 In Japanese, Izumo is written like this: 出雲 The first character’s meaning is “to go out,” “out,” “to appear,” etc. The second character’s meaning is “cloud,” or “the clouds.” Together these characters are read “izumo,” and they mean that Izumo is “the city where the clouds appear.”☁️ Don’t you think this adds an even more mysterious vibe to this city where the gods gather? ^^ #出雲 #Izumo #shimane #clouds #mystery #gods #landofthegods #ancientjapan #ancientjapanizumo #japan #japanese #learnjapanese Picture: Hiikawa River

Susanoo Hall in the Sada Area👹 On the West side of Susa Shrine, adjacent to the hot spring and lodging facility Yukari-kan, is Susanoo Hall, a place presenting the history and culture of the Sada district and its strong link to the divinity Susanoo. Entering the building, the first thing to catch your eye is the “jinjibana,” a huge decorative structure built inside the hall. It is a giant umbrella-shaped sculpture decorated with artificial sakura (cherry blossom) flowers, and other elements. This is the symbol of the Kiriake festival (and the “nenbutsu odori” dance) which takes place at Susa Shrine every summer. Susanoo Hall also shows videos giving an outline of Susa Shrine, and about local folk entertainment. Other objects such as articles excavated from historic sites and Kagura masks are also on display. Also worthy of note is a stained glass depicting scenes from Japanese mythology embedded into the architecture of this warehouse style building.✨ Free entry Open daily from 10:00am to 5:30pm #izumo #shimane #ancientjapan #ancientjapanizumo #susa #susajinja #susashrine #sada #japan #susanoo #susanoohall

🎍Happy New Year 2021!!🥳 🇯🇵【Japanese】明けましておめでとうございます！ Akemashite omedetō gozaimasu!🎉 🇺🇸【English】Happy New Year!🎉 🇧🇷【Portuguese】Feliz Ano Novo !🎉 🇫🇮【Finnish】Onnellista Uutta Vuotta!🎉 🇫🇷【French】Bonne année !🎉 We wish everyone a very happy new year and we are hoping to welcome many visitors from around the world again in 2021! 😃 Photo: A heron on Hinomisaki's rocky shore

It’s Christmas Eve!🎅🎄🎁 Tomorrow is Christmas, and as we can see in this illustration by our Finnish CIR Tanja, Santa Claus is on his way to deliver presents to children all around the world!🌎🌍🌏 But in Japan, December 25th is not a public holiday, and the Christian origins of the celebration that is Christmas are not widely observed. Instead, people tend to go on dates, and eat fried chicken and cake topped with whipped cream and strawberries.😋🍓 How about you— do you celebrate Christmas? Tell us about your holiday traditions in the comments!😃

The Legend of eight forked serpent and Samurai Sword 　Untouched Japan, Okuizumo

Susa Jinja – The Sacred Tree, A Symbol of Eternity on the Shrine’s Grounds🌲 Behind the main building of this Shinto shrine is a giant Japanese cedar estimated to be 1300 years old. Standing there, it looks like it’s protecting this land. With a circumference of 6 meters (19.6 ft) around its trunk, and a height of 24 meters (78.7 ft), this tree offers a rare sight. Its splendid roots, crawling down from the trunk deep into the earth, give visitors the impression of a strong source of life. This giant cedar has watched over the people living in this area for the past 1300 years. If you raise your eyes to its highest leaves, you might be impressed by the atmosphere of solemnity emanating from the tree. Even in this land of the gods called Izumo, it’s known as one of the most prominent “power spots” (places filled with spiritual energy) that can be found here. 🚗It takes about 20 minutes by car to go to Susa Shrine / the Sada area from JR Izumo-shi Station, and 40 minutes by bus.🚌 #izumo #shimane #ancientjapan #ancientjapanizumo #susa #susajinja #susashrine #sada #japan #cedar #tree #nature

🚲Visiting Izumo by Bike!😃 How to rent a bike in Izumo City: If arriving by train at Izumo-shi Station (JR) or Dentetsu Izumo-shi Station (Bataden), go to Izumo-shi Station East Bike Parking Lot (Izumo-shi eki higashi chūrinjō). There, you can rent a bike from 8am to 6pm. Standard bicycle: 520 yen/bike for the day Electrically assisted bicycle: 880 yen/bike for the day Bring your passport or resident card (zairyū kādo). Once the paperwork is done, check the bikes with the staff, and you’re ready to go!🚲🚲🚲 🤔Looking for a route? Check out our new video at the YouTube link below:⬇️ https://youtu.be/ECJoFrBC4xY #izumo #shimane #izumobybike #bike #rentabike #japan #izumotaisha #izumoshistation #izumostation #ancientjapanizumo