2.Attraction 2: Western area of Shimane Prefecture / Rich nature and nostalgic townscape
The western part of Shimane Prefecture was once called Iwami-no-kuni (Iwami Province). It is also called "Natsukashi-no-kuni" (Land of Natsukashi) because it is a region that still retains many good old Japanese landscapes. It is also characterized by a variety of beautiful nature, including oceans, mountains, and rivers, which can be enjoyed in a single trip. If you let your five senses be enlivened by nature, your heart will be enriched. The culture of this region, with its historical and romantic townscapes, where old things are carefully inherited, is fresh in the eyes of those who live in the city. You are sure to discover new discoveries and insights through your trip.
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Make a wish through the red Senbon-torii gate / Taisakutani Inari Shrine
[The Taishakutani Inari Shrine is an unusual Inari shrine with the "荷" in "Nari" (荷), and is known as a shrine for the fulfillment of great deeds. The red color of the shrine pavilions and torii gates, which are nestled in the mountains, is very vivid to the eye. You can visit the shrine by car, but for a deeper experience of the sacred atmosphere, we recommend taking the route past the Senbon-torii gate and up the stone steps. It is customary here to offer fried bean curd and candles. You can get them at the temple grounds or at stores along the approach to the shrine. Ema, which look like fox masks, should be dedicated with eyes along with your wish.
Taisakutani Inari Shrine
409, Gota, Tsuwano Town, Kanzoku-gun, Shimane
Tel. 0856-72-0219
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Industrial Heritage and Retro Townscape / Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, Omori Townscape
Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, which was recognized as a World Heritage Site in 2007, was discovered in the Muromachi period (1336-1573) and prospered as a production center that exported high-quality silver not only domestically but also to foreign countries at that time. The Ryugenji Mabu, the site of the mine, is approximately 600 meters long and is open to the public throughout the year. The atmospheric streets of Omori are reminiscent of those days, and there are many fashionable stores such as cafes, bakeries, and sundry goods stores, where visitors can enjoy a retro walk through the town while feeling the history.
Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, Omori Townscape
Omori-cho, Ota City, Shimane Prefecture
Tel. 0854-88-9950
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Shimane Performing Arts Center [grantwa], a center of culture where red tiles shine in the sun.
The Grandtois, an eye-catching building in downtown Masuda, is a complex of an art museum and a theater, and has become the cultural center of the Iwami area. The building is covered with 120,000 Ishu tiles for the roof and 160,000 for the walls. Visitors can enjoy the buildings and spaces, such as the courtyard square with a 25-meter square water basin reflecting the sky and wind, and the museum lobby with its domed ceiling. Spend time feeling the wind and light, experiencing the beauty, and encountering a new you.
Shimane Performing Arts Center [Grantois] (Shimane, Japan)
5-15 Ariake-cho, Masuda City, Shimane Prefecture
Tel. 0856-31-1860