English menu available Tachibanaya is located in one of Matsue’s entertainment districts and stays open quite late to cater for the late-night drinkers. They serve traditional Izumo soba, udon and soba dishes topped  with chicken or shrimp, and some rice bowl dishes. Opening Times: Lunch: 11:00am – 2:00pm / Night: 6:00pm – 1:00am 2-64 Higashi-honmachi, Matsue [...]

English menu available. Shoheikaku is a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn) in the Lake Shinji hot spring area on the northern shore of Lake Shinji. They serve fresh produce from the lake including the famous 7 delicacies of Lake Shinji, and also seaweed roasted in a traditional wooden roaster, which you can see in the restaurant. Opening Times: [...]

English menu available This famous seafood restaurant was established in 1901, and serves local dishes containing fresh and seasonal ingredients. Dishes include the famous 7 Delicacies of Lake Shinji, and a variety of sets consisting of rice, shijimi clam miso soup and side dishes. They also serve dishes of grilled eel on rice. Opening Times: [...]

Although the larger cities in Shimane have regular trains and buses, you will need a car if you want to get to the more rural areas. Here are some of the main rentacar companies that operate that have branches in Shimane. If you don’t speak Japanese we suggest you call or email the English service desks  on the [...]

Hotel Ichibata

Matsue Tokyu Inn

Adachi Art Musium

Cafe Cozy

Agate atelier

Ichibata Electric Railway

Vogel Park is one of the world’s largest indoor gardens. It has gardens and greenhouses filled with plants including fuchsia and begonia,  and also houses 800 birds including owls and penguins. Bird shows and events are held on a daily basis. Opening Times: Open from 9:00am. Closing times change depending on the season. Admission: 1500 yen. (Overseas visitors pay [...]

lake Shinji