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Shimane Tour Report vol.3

Report of Ms.Hong An Doan (from U.S.A)

On March 2013, six international students from Waseda University in Tokyo went on a three days tour to Shimane Prefecture. Each of them chose and wrote a report about three favorite spots from the tour.

Silver Mine Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine – The Ryugenji Mabu Mine Tunnel was one of my favorite sites during the entire Shimane tour.  The small town of Omori and mines are tucked in the valley of the mountains and is surrounded by beauty one can not find in the cities. Though traveling to the mines, may be a trip in itself, the town and mines are well worth the effort.  Before visiting the Mine shafts, tourists may enjoy a traditional Japanese meal in samurai house, or take a tour of the town filled with souvenir and sweet shops. To help guide visitors, the town has provided a visitor information office, equipped with audio English guides to the nearby shops, temples, shrines, castles, and ruins.  If guests prefer to ride a bike to the mine tunnels, they are able to rent electric bicycles for a very reasonable price.  The hike up to the tunnels is not vigorous. IMG_5115The path runs deep with in the forests, travelers might be surprised to get a glimpse of a monkey rattling from excitement within the trees. The beauty of the mountain is overwhelming.  The various shrines, temples, and ruins along the way display great beauty within the green overtures of the moss and trees.  The history of each sight is delicately preserved. The tunnel itself is an exciting adventure. It takes a good 15 minutes to walk through. Once inside, visitors can really appreciate the miners who worked in the tunnels. Ryugenji Mabu Mine Tunnel is a sight worth seeing. One could spend and entire day there and be delighted and entranced by everything the Omori town has to offer.

 

Quilt ArtThe Izumo Museum of Quilt Art is a true gem of the Shimane Prefecture.  It is hidden in the rural farmlands of Izumo-shi.  Though getting to the museum may be a bit difficult for visitors, the effort is entirely worth it. To maintain the integrity and cultural richness of the quilts, the exhibit is displayed in a traditional Japanese home away from the city. It is the perfect location, which sets the atmosphere for visitors to really appreciate the beauty on display. In addition to the art within the Museum, visitors have the chance to admire the resident’s Japanese gardens and various ikebana arrangements. The museum is very foreigner friendly. English pamphlets are provided, along with some English support. The coordinators of the museum have put much consideration into each quilt and have highlighted each piece to the best of their ability. Many of the quilts are made from kimonos dating back two hundred years, and have been woven together with the utmost care.  Japanese Confectionary The museum also has a small gift shop where visitors can find many quilted souvenirs. Visitors may also enjoy green tea and the museum’s originally made sweets. Here, foreigners can truly get a dose of Japanese culture, appreciating traditional beauty and Japanese delicacies.

 

Matsue Castle stands in the center of many of the prefecture’s tourist attractions, and is only a 10-minute bus ride from Matsue station.  Tourist highlights, such as the Lafcadio residences, Samurai houses, and Matsue History museum are all within walking distance from the castle.Matsue Castle Though centuries have gone by, the castle has been well maintained and preserved, allowing it to continue to project its beauty, drawing in tourist from all over.  The castle is surrounded by forests, shrines, and temples. If you find yourself a little lost, the signs are very easy to read and understand. But not to worry, discovering various places along the way is an adventure in itself. When roaming around the residence, you might be surprised and lucky enough to spot a Samurai or ninja. When entering the castle, all visitors must take off their shoes. Though it may be a little inconvenient. It helps to preserve the wood of the castle. Each floor exhibits spectacular artifacts: materials used to build the castle, and various warrior uniforms.  Walking around each floor, visitors will find English audio support explaining different items on display. The top floor has an impressive panoramic view of the entire city. Here, visitors may admire the view of the gardens and other various sights.