— Prefecture · Shimane · 島 根 県 —

National Treasures of Shimane

島 根 県 の 国 宝

Shimane’s national treasures — properties designated kokuhō for their exceptional value to the nation.

7 total Shimane
Showing 1 – 7 of 7
Izumo Taisha Main Shrine
Shimane 江戸中期 National Treasure
Izumo Taisha Main Shrine

The main hall of Izumo Taisha in Shimane was built in 1744 in the taisha-zukuri form and is the largest surviving example. It became a National Treasure in 1952.

Bronze Bell Excavated from the Kamo Iwakura Site in Shimane
Shimane 弥生 National Treasure
Bronze Bell Excavated from the Kamo Iwakura Site in Shimane

Thirty-nine Yayoi bronze bells found in 1996 at the Kamo Iwakura site in Shimane, the largest single find in Japan. They became National Treasures in 2008.

Kamosu Shrine Main Hall
Shimane 桃山 National Treasure
Kamosu Shrine Main Hall

The main hall of Kamosu Shrine in Matsue was rebuilt in 1583 and is the oldest surviving taisha-zukuri, a form found only in the old province of Izumo.

Matsue Castle Tower
Shimane 桃山 National Treasure
Matsue Castle Tower

The keep of Matsue Castle in Shimane was finished in 1611. Columns spanning two storeys, reinforced with cladding boards, brought National Treasure status in 2015.

Akino Deer Lacquerware Box
Shimane 鎌倉 National Treasure
Akino Deer Lacquerware Box

Deer rest among golden bush clover on this Kamakura-period lacquer box kept at Izumo Taisha. Explore its sprinkled-gold artistry, shell inlay, and how to see it.

White Armor with Helmet and Large Sleeves
Shimane 鎌倉 National Treasure
White Armor with Helmet and Large Sleeves

A late Kamakura armor laced in white silk, with Fudo Myoo stenciled on its breastplate. Owned by Hinomisaki Shrine and famed for its pioneering 1805 restoration.

Items Excavated from the Kojindani Site in Shimane Prefecture
Shimane 弥生 National Treasure
Items Excavated from the Kojindani Site in Shimane Prefecture

In 1984 an Izumo hillside yielded 358 bronze swords set on edge, with 16 spearheads and 6 bells beside them. The group became a National Treasure in 1998.