Iwami Ginzan opened in 1526, and for around 400 years was an active mine. It flourished between 1500 and 1700, and was fought over by many rulers in the area. It came under strict control around the end of the Tokugawa Shogunate. At one period, Japan produced a third of the world’s silver, and most [...]

It is said that Tamatsukuri hot spring was discovered 1300 years ago by the god Sukuna-hikona, who appears in Japanese mythology and accompanied Okuni-nushi around  Japan developing the land and industry. The hot spring appears in the ancient chronicles as “the water of the gods”. The sun god Amaterasu, had three sacred treasures, the sword, the mirror [...]

Mt. Yakumo is just behind Suga Shrine in Daito, Unnan, and is famous for being the birthplace of the poetry form “waka”. The mountain spring water is said to be sacred and bring longevity and prevent aging. Getting There: Take the Ichibata Bus bound for Daito from JR Matsue Station. Get off at Suga (approx. [...]

Kezo-ji Temple is located at the top of Mt. Makuragi (456m) in the northern area of Matsue. It was founded over 1000 years ago, but fell into disrepair over the years. The temple was later revived by the ruling clan of Matsue when the castle was built. The temple lies directly north-east of Matsue Castle, [...]

Photo taken at Hinomisaki Coast

Photo taken at Matsue Ohashi Bridge

Matsue’s highest building, the Sanin-Godo Bank Headquarters, has an observatory floor (65 metres) offering a panoramic view of Matsue City, including a view out over the lake. Entrance is free, and opening hours are from 10:00 to 18:00 (November to March, 9:30 to 17:30).

Photos taken from beneath Shinji-ko Ohashi Bridge. Views of Matsue City to the east, and Lake Shinji to the west.

The shores of Lake Shinji offer a variety of spots for taking photographs. You can get a different view depending on the time of day and time of year.

Photos taken at Tachikuekyo Gorge

Photo taken at Shitabi Shrine (志タ備神社)

Photos taken at Kezo-ji Temple (Winter)