Located on the western edge of Japan’s Honshu Island, Shimane Prefecture is a land rich in myth, spirituality and natural wonder. Often referred to as Japan’s ancient heartland, Shimane is a sanctuary for wellness seekers, offering a transformative blend of cultural, natural and gastronomic experiences with the potential to rejuvenate both body and soul.
Natural Beauty for Skin Health
Imagine waking up in a place where the air feels like silk, untainted by pollution. Shimane’s pristine environment is a treasure trove of skin-rejuvenating elements: Recent scientific research, including collaborative studies with one of the leading Japanese cosmetic brands, Pola, has documented the region’s remarkably low aerosol levels and superior air quality. The San’in region’s distinctive microclimate maintains optimal humidity levels while the Sea of Japan provides natural protection from excessive UV exposure, creating perfect conditions for skin recovery.
For those seeking to restore their skin’s natural glow, visitors can soak in the famed hot springs of Shimane, each offering distinct benefits. At Mimata Onsen, the alkaline waters gently exfoliate, leaving your skin feeling soft and silky. Meanwhile, Tamatsukuri Onsen — nicknamed “the bath of the gods” — provides fast-acting moisturizing effects, leaving your skin looking dewy and refreshed.
The Divine Heritage of Shimane
Shimane is often called “The Land of the Gods,” a title deeply rooted in its spiritual significance. As the setting of many parts in the Kojiki, Japan’s oldest chronicle of myths and legends, Shimane is the spiritual heart of Shinto religion. Nowhere is this more evident than at Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine, one of Japan’s most revered shrines.
Dedicated to Okuninushi-no-Mikoto, a deity associated with relationships and marriage (among many other things), Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine is a pilgrimage site for those seeking luck in love and human connections. According to legend, Okuninushi was once the god of the terrestrial realm; today, he is venerated as a god of connections, a deity who creates happiness in relationships. The shrine is a sacred place to pray for connections of all sorts: for luck in finding a partner and marital bliss, and also for any of the bonds that link us to one another.
In the traditional Japanese lunar calendar, October is known as Kannazuki, or the “Month Without Gods,” because it was believed that all the deities from across Japan gathered for a grand assembly during this time. Since this gathering was thought to take place in Shimane, the region gave the month a special name: Kamiarizuki, or the “Month With Gods.”
This unique tradition underscores Shimane’s spiritual importance and offers visitors a chance to renew their own sense of connection — both divine and earthly. Through rituals, prayers and moments of quiet reflection, you can tap into a sense of inner peace and belonging that lingers long after you’ve left.
Culinary Wellness: From Sacred Sake to Seasonal Delicacies
The prefecture’s culinary treasures reflect its deep connection to nature and tradition, offering dishes that nourish both body and soul. Shimane is considered the birthplace of nihonshu (sake), a drink with origins intertwined with the myths of the Kojiki. With over 30 breweries crafting sake from pure mountain water and premium rice, Shimane’s sake culture is unparalleled.
Beyond its role as a beverage, sake holds hidden benefits for wellness. Koji, the fermented grains used in sake brewing, are known for their skin-moisturizing properties. Sake lees, or “sakekasu,” are rich in probiotics and antioxidants, supporting gut health and immunity when incorporated into meals.
For food lovers, Shimane’s famous Izumo soba noodles are a must-try. This dark, fragrant buckwheat noodle is one of Japan’s top three soba varieties, and is rich in polyphenols and antioxidants. Pair it with fresh seafood from Lake Shinji, which boasts a bounty known as the “Seven Delicacies”: sea bass, eel, shrimp, smelt, shijimi clams, carp and icefish. Each dish is a testament to Shimane’s commitment to seasonal, balanced and health-focused cuisine.
Natural Wonders and Living Traditions
Shimane’s breathtaking landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for wellness and renewal. Along the coastline, the Oki Islands stand as a testament to nature’s artistry, in particular the dramatic cliffs of the Kuniga Coast. Candle Island — a 20-meter-tall rock that rises suddenly from the sea, resembling its namesake candle — offers a serene sunset view that feels almost otherworldly.
The prefecture’s cultural heritage is just as captivating. From the dynamic elegance of kagura dance, which tells ancient tales through music and movement, to Shimane’s historical connection to sumo wrestling, traditions here resonate with the energy of generations past. These practices are not just performances but invitations to immerse yourself in the rhythms of a timeless culture.
Wellness Tourism in Practice
A wellness journey in Shimane might begin with morning prayers at Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine, where prayers for luck in relationships set a tone of gratitude and intention. Spend the afternoon soaking in one of Shimane’s therapeutic hot springs, letting the mineral-rich waters work their magic on your skin and soul.
Don a colorful yukata (light cotton kimono) and stroll through charming onsen towns, where you can sample local delicacies and meet friendly locals. For nature lovers, hiking along the coastal cliffs or cycling through Shimane’s lush countryside provides a chance to reconnect with the earth while soaking in its beauty.
Discover Your Sanctuary in Shimane
Shimane is more than a destination — it’s a sanctuary where you can rediscover yourself through the healing power of nature, spirituality and tradition. For detailed information about planning your visit, please consult the Shimane Tourism Official Site.
