Shimane Prefecture, located on Japan Sea side of western Honshu, is known since ancient times as "land of gods" representing history and mythology prefecture. Housing World Cultural Heritage "Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine and its Cultural Landscape," it attracts numerous tourists as mythological stage centered on Izumo Taisha Shrine.

"Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine and its Cultural Landscape" (registered 2007) represents mining site remains where silver extraction occurred from 16th through 20th centuries, preserving integrated mine remains, smelting sites, transport routes, and port facilities. Peak periods comprised about one-third of world silver production, with mining techniques and environmentally harmonious development methods earning evaluation. Popular activities include mabu (mine shaft) tours and old townscape walks in mining town Omori district.

Izumo Taisha, one of Japan's most ancient shrines, is nationally worshipped as matchmaking deity enshrining Okuninushi-no-Okami. Main hall represents Japan's largest shrine architecture built in unique taisha-zukuri style. Particularly, shimenawa rope measuring 13.6 meters long and approximately 5.2 tons serves as Izumo Taisha symbol. October Kamiarizuki (month of gods' presence) allegedly gathers nationwide yaoyorozu gods in Izumo for "Kamiari Festival".

Matsue Castle, one of 12 existing keeps completed in 1611, represents hirayama (hill-plain) castle. Keep designated as national treasure is beloved by nickname "Chidori Castle." Moat rivers circle castle surroundings, with moat sightseeing boat castle town tours as popular tourist courses. Matsue is also famous as castle town beloved by Koizumi Yakumo (Lafcadio Hearn), with Koizumi Yakumo Memorial Museum introducing his life and works.

Lake Shinji, Japan's seventh-largest lake, is known as brackish water lake. Particularly famous for sunset beauty, selected among Japan's 100 Best Sunsets. Lake Shinji sunsets also represent production areas for seven varieties of fish and shellfish called "Shinji-ko Nanachin" (Shinji Lake Seven Treasures): sea bass, freshwater prawns, eel, pond smelt, icefish, carp, and corbicula clams, with Yamato corbicula boasting top national catch volumes.

Oki Islands, Japan Sea islands approximately 40 kilometers from mainland, are certified as Oki UNESCO Global Geopark. Comprising Dozen (Nishinoshima town, Ama town, Chibu village) and Dogo (Okinoshima town), they're known for unique geology, rich nature, and distinctive culture. Scenic spots include Rosoku Rock, Kuniga Coast, and Akakabe, with gourmet options including Oki beef and seafood.

As mythological stage with numerous legends, Shimane Prefecture features mythology-related locations including Yomotsu Hirasaka (entrance to underworld), Hii River where Susanoo-no-Mikoto allegedly defeated Yamata-no-Orochi, and Amano Iwato Shrine (heavenly rock cave stage).

Shimane food culture prominently features Izumo soba as representative local cuisine. Distinctive dark-colored soba using buckwheat flour ground with hulls offers high nutrition, characterized by unique eating style serving in three-tiered containers called "wariko soba."

Lake Shinji Yamato corbicula boasts top national catch volumes, with corbicula soup representing Shimane's signature flavor. Additionally, nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch), called "white fish king," represents luxury fish enjoyed as simmered or salt-grilled dishes.

Matsue wagashi culture is also famous, developing elegant wagashi after Matsue domain lord Matsudaira Harusato (Fumai-ko) encouraged tea ceremony. Famous confections including wakakusa, yamakawa, and asashio continue production at numerous confection shops today.