Shimane

Overview

Shimane is a first-level administrative division of Japan in the Chugoku region. Its area is about 6,708 km2 and its population about 0.0 million (2024), with its capital at Matsue.

History

Comprising the old provinces of Izumo, Iwami and Oki; Izumo Taisha is a center of Japanese mythology. Matsue (Matsudaira), Hamada domains and the shogunal Iwami Ginzan silver mine existed in the Edo period.

Geography and industry

Izumo Taisha, the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine (World Heritage), Matsue Castle and the Adachi Museum of Art are famous; the Oki Islands' nature is distinctive. Sea of Japan fishing flourishes.

Transport

No Shinkansen passes through, but the JR limited express Yakumo links Okayama on the Sanyo Shinkansen via the Hakubi Line in about two hours.