Shimane Prefecture

Shimane Prefecture is a prefecture in western Japan’s Chūgoku region, facing the Sea of Japan. Its capital is Matsue.

Izumo Taisha: A major Shinto shrine in Izumo, traditionally associated with Ōkuninushi and the gathering of the gods. The shrine anchors Izumo’s religious identity and draws visitors from across Japan.
Chūgoku region: A region of western Honshu comprising five prefectures between the Sea of Japan and the Seto Inland Sea. Shimane is one of the region’s five prefectures, on its northern coast.
Izumo Province: A historical province in western Japan that broadly corresponds to eastern Shimane Prefecture. Its name and territory underpin Shimane’s long-standing association with Izumo.
Iwami Kagura: A regional form of Japanese sacred dance-drama performed in western Shimane, often with elaborate masks and costumes. Its performances remain a living tradition across the Iwami area.
Kamiari Festival: A Shinto observance at Izumo Taisha held during the tenth lunar month, when kami are traditionally said to gather in Izumo. The festival expresses Izumo’s distinctive place in Japanese tradition.
Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine: A historic silver-mining complex in Shimane, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. Its mines and trading routes record Shimane’s role in global silver commerce.
Matsue: The capital city of Shimane Prefecture, located beside Lake Shinji and Nakaumi. Matsue is the prefectural seat and a principal urban center.
Iwami Province: A historical province in western Japan that broadly corresponds to western Shimane Prefecture. Iwami’s former territory forms the prefecture’s western historical region.
Shimane Wagyu: Japanese beef produced from cattle raised in Shimane Prefecture. The prefecture’s livestock tradition supports a recognized regional food product.
Inasa Beach: A beach west of Izumo Taisha associated with the mythological arrival of the kami in Izumo. Its setting connects Shimane’s coastline with the region’s sacred stories.

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Okayama PrefectureCompared with: It offers a neighboring Chūgoku-region comparison with a different coastline and orientation.