Le sanctuaire Izumo Taisha à Shimane
redlegsfan21

Un fidèle au sanctuaire Izumo
Freedom II Andres

Des bateaux sur un horikawa de Matsue — Matsue peu se visiter aussi bien depuis un petit bateaux lorsq d'une balade sur les horikawa de la ville qu'à pieds !

Adachi Museum of Art and its garden, considered by the specialized press as "the most beautiful in Japan"
©Shimane Prefectural Goverment/©JNTO

Shinjō-juku, Shinjō, Okayama
Aimaimyi, Wikimedia

Okayama castle, the Black "castle", close to Korakuen garden
©JTA/ ©JNTO

Izumo & Matsue: Discovering Shimane Prefecture

Duration : 4 days
Locations : Izumo, Matsue - Shimane Prefecture

Embark on a captivating excursion in the western part of Japan. This meticulously curated car journey unlocks the secrets of the enchanting Shimane Prefecture. Your adventure begins in a vibrant city pulsating with ancient myths and legends. Here, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the grandeur of a historic shrine, a cornerstone of Japanese mythology.

Continuing your journey, you will arrive at a charming city where time appears to slow down. Explore the majestic castle, a national treasure that stands proudly as a guardian of the city. Delve into its imposing halls and ramparts, tangible reminders of a glorious past. This awe-inspiring structure serves as a powerful reminder of the region's rich heritage.

Beyond mere sightseeing, this excursion promises a captivating tapestry woven with cultural discoveries, breathtaking scenery, and moments of tranquil serenity. Prepare to be captivated by the West of Japan!

4 days itinerary by car from Izumo to Matsue

Departure city : Tokyo
Izumo
Matsue
Return city : Okayama

Please find detailed itinerary information below.

IMPORTANT: If your driving license was issued in France, Switzerland, Germany, Belgium, or Taiwan, it is not valid in Japan, so you will need a certified Japanese translation, available in option.

Why choose this excursion to Japan ?

Immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Shimane's diverse landscapes.
Savor the unique tastes of Shimane from sake and soy sauce breweries to fresh local products.
Uncover the secrets of local crafts and traditions passed down for generations.
Glide along charming canals and discover the peaceful side of Shimane.
Many recommendations available in your digital travel guidebook.

Your excursion in detail

Itinerary

Day 1 : Pre-excursion stay

Ensure a smooth and stress-free start to your excursion with a comfortable night's stay at a hotel near Haneda Airport, the night before your flight.
This convenient location allows you to relax and avoid the worry of early morning commutes or last-minute airport dashes. Wake up refreshed and ready to embark on your exciting adventure!
Japan Airlines (JAL) operates a direct flight from Haneda Airport to Izumo, offering a smooth 1 hour and a half journey.
Day 2 : From local crafts to breathtaking coastlines

Touching down at Izumo Airport in the morning, your adventure in the Shimane Prefecture kicks off. Pick up your rental car directly at the airport and head straight for Izumo.
Make a first stop at a district brimming with local textiles and crafts. Then, take the opportunity to savor the region's culinary traditions at a renowned sake brewery and a soy sauce shop. With a full stomach, it is now time for a cultural immersion as your next stop is a serene temple.
A short drive away awaits a breathtaking clifftop shrine offering panoramic ocean views. Capture stunning photos from the nearby observation deck or lighthouse, and continue your journey to Cape Hino where you can observe dramatic rock formations.
For a relaxing finale, unwind on a popular beach, a haven sunbathing, before making your way to Japan’s most ancient shrine. Finally, check-in to your traditional Japanese accommodation, your home for the night.
Day 3 : Following Hearn's footsteps

The morning of your second day takes you on a scenic drive to a natural wonder, followed by a breathtaking gorge. Then, immerse yourself in the region's craftsmanship at workshops and stores, where you can discover unique treasures.
Refuel with lunch and then head to a vineyard to indulge in the local bounty. The afternoon is dedicated to art and culture: you will first explore a renowned museum known for its stunning collection and beautiful gardens.
As your day winds down, return your car and learn about a fascinating writer, Lafcadio Hearn, who fell in love with Japan at a dedicated museum. Once you're done with your exploration, head to your hotel in Matsue for a relaxing final night.
Day 4 : Onto Okayama, unveiling new adventures

Enjoy a leisurely morning at your hotel before setting off to explore Matsue's cultural heart. A short walk takes you to its majestic castle, steeped in history. After exploring the castle, grab a delicious lunch near Matsue Station.
Your excursion reaches its climax with a scenic train journey! Catch the Yakumo train from Matsue Station, offering a comfortable ride with breathtaking countryside views as you travel to Okayama Station.
In Okayama, you have free time to explore at your own pace. The rest of the evening is yours to wander charming streets or simply relax and reflect on your unforgettable adventure.

Included in your self-guided excursion

Accommodation
- 2 nights in 3-star hotels or equivalent
- 1 night in a traditional Japanese accommodation
The base rate includes a twin room.
Transport
- Domestic flight tickets from Haneda Airport (HND) > to Izumo Airport (IZO), operated by Japan Airlines (JAL)
- 2-day car rental starting from Izumo Airport (IZO)
- JR Yakumo tickets from Matsue > to Okayama
Visit & meals
- All breakfasts are included
- Traditional dinner is included at the accommodation in Izumo

Other services

Other services
- 7/7 telephone assistance in English and Japanese bilingual
- Complete digital travel diary before your departure
Not included in the price of your excursion
- Optional insurance
- Personal expenses, including lunches (you will find addresses selected by us in your travel pack)
- Entrance fees to museums, gardens or temples
- Access to internet (Pocket WiFi or SIM card)
- Everything not included in the "Included in your excursion" section

More information about your trip

Your excursion:

- Please note that at least one person taking part in the trip must have a driving licence valid in their country.

- The prices shown on this page may vary according to the Japanese ¥ exchange rate.

- Unfortunately, this tour is not accessible to people with reduced mobility.

- Children aged 3 and over are accepted. Child rates available for children ages 3 to 11 included.

- Pets are not accepted.

- This program may be subject to changes due to imperatives such as weather conditions or other force majeure events. Please note that due to the current situation, all mentioned information is subject to change or adaptation.

- In order to benefit from an internet connection, book a Pocket WiFi or SIM card with Japan Experience.

- This tour must be booked at least 45 days before the start date of the tour.

- Your travel documents will be sent to you by email before your departure.

Your accommodation:

- Some hotels may ask you to pay a tourist tax on arrival. This depends on the town and even the hotel, as some do not include it in the cost of the reservation. It generally amounts to ¥200/night/person (about €1.60) but may be a little higher in 4-star hotels. It must be paid in cash at the hotel reception.

- Single room: People travelling alone and/or wishing to book a single room must pay a supplement at the time of booking. Please note that a single room supplement for an order of more than 2 people will be applied in all accommodation except ryokan (3 and 4*). As this is traditional accommodation, people with the same reservation are grouped together in spacious rooms that can accommodate up to 5 people.

- 3-person room: If there are 3, 5 or more of you and you do not select the single supplement, you will be allocated a triple room.

- Hotel names: The names given on the site are for information only. In the event of unavailability, an establishment of equivalent standing will be scheduled.

Your transport:

- Domestic flight tickets from Haneda Airport (HND) > to Izumo Airport (IZO).

- Car rental takes place at Izumo Airport's International Arrival lobby. The car will be returned in Matsue, near Matsue Station. Both locations might change in the event of unavailability.

- In Japan, most cars are automatic.

- Costs related to gasoline and possible tolls are not included in the tour price.

- If your driving license was issued in France, Switzerland, Germany, Belgium, or Taiwan, it is not valid in Japan, so you will need a certified Japanese translation, available as an option.

- JR Yakumo tickets from Matsue > to Okayama.

Your meals:

- All breakfasts are included.

- Traditional dinner is included at the accommodation in Izumo.

- For other meals, you will find addresses selected by us in your travel diary.