Shimane Prefecture Hotels

Some of the best places to stay in Shimane Prefecture are Izumo, Matsue and Hamada. Shimane Prefecture offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Izumo is renowned for its ancient shrines, Matsue is famous for its picturesque castle and scenic lake views, while Hamada boasts stunning coastal landscapes. Accommodations range from traditional ryokans with tatami rooms to modern hotels featuring various amenities. For first-time visitors, Matsue is ideal due to its rich attractions and accessibility. Enjoy your stay in this charming region of Japan! Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Shimane Prefecture:

1. IzumoOpens in a new window: Izumo is a cultural gem in Japan, famous for its rich history and stunning landmarks. The highlight is the iconic Izumo Taisha shrine, a significant Shinto shrine, alongside beautiful Inasa Beach, ideal for relaxation. The Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse adds a historic touch to the coastal scenery. For accommodations, consider Inisienoyado KeiunnOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star ryokan offering a full spa and natural hot springs, perfect for a rejuvenating experience. ShouenOpens in a new window also provides a traditional ryokan experience with access to public hot springs. Additionally, Oyado TsukiyonousagiOpens in a new window is another excellent option, featuring both indoor and outdoor public hot springs, along with full spa services to ensure a comfortable stay.
2. MatsueOpens in a new window: Matsue is a charming city known for its cultural attractions, including the impressive Matsue Castle and the serene Tamatsukuri Hot Spring. The area's focus on wellness and relaxation makes it a perfect getaway. For lodging, Hoshino Resorts KAI TamatsukuriOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star ryokan featuring both indoor and outdoor hot springs, ideal for relaxation. Tamatsukuri Grand Hotel ChoseikakuOpens in a new window also offers a lovely ryokan experience with access to public hot springs and traditional tatami floors. Lastly, Kaike FugaOpens in a new window is family-friendly, providing natural hot springs and various amenities suitable for children, making it a great choice for families visiting Matsue.
3. HamadaOpens in a new window: Hamada is a vibrant destination with family-friendly attractions, including the Hamada Children's Museum of Art and Iwami Seaside Park, perfect for outdoor activities. The city offers a mix of culture and fun experiences. For accommodations, Toyoko Inn Hamada-eki Kita-guchiOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel providing complimentary breakfast and streaming services, ensuring a comfortable stay. Green Rich Hotel Hamada EkimaeOpens in a new window, also a 3.0-star hotel, offers a range of breakfast options and entertainment services like satellite TV. Lastly, Hotel Route Inn Hamada EkimaeOpens in a new window is another 3.0-star option featuring a restaurant and flatscreen TVs, perfect for a cozy stay in Hamada.

Shimane Prefecture offers a captivating blend of cultural and natural attractions, from the historic temples and monuments of Matsue to the serene beauty of Shinji Lake. Travelers can immerse themselves in vibrant festivals, relax at Yunotsu Onsen, and explore the scenic Satoyama hot springs, creating unforgettable experiences. Here are some of the top things to do in Shimane Prefecture:

• Visit Matsue: Matsue, known as the City of Water, offers a unique blend of cultural and historical experiences. Explore the majestic Matsue Castle, a stunning example of Japanese architecture, and stroll through the picturesque gardens surrounding it. Don't miss the opportunity to visit important temples such as the Horiuchi Shrine. For a serene experience, take a boat ride on Lake Shinji, where you can enjoy the tranquil waters and beautiful scenery. The city also hosts vibrant festivals throughout the year, showcasing local traditions and crafts, making it an ideal spot for cultural immersion.
• Visit Ama: Ama is a charming coastal town that is perfect for beach lovers. Spend your days relaxing on its sandy shores, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the ocean breeze. The beach provides a serene atmosphere, ideal for unwinding and rejuvenating. You can also indulge in water sports or take leisurely walks along the coastline, experiencing the stunning views of the sea. Ama is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with nature.
• Visit Izumo: Izumo is a city steeped in history and rich in natural beauty. The famous Izumo Taisha Shrine is a must-visit, showcasing traditional Japanese architecture and offering a glimpse into the spiritual heritage of the region. Enjoy the scenic seaside views and take advantage of fishing opportunities along the coast. The nearby natural parks provide excellent hiking trails, where you can immerse yourself in the serene landscapes. Izumo’s quaint small-town charm, combined with its picturesque beaches, makes it an ideal destination for exploration and relaxation.

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Shimane Prefecture is during January, February, and December, when hotel rates are significantly lower. If you're traveling internationally, it's advisable to book your flight at least three months in advance to secure more affordable fares. To truly appreciate the region's highlights, plan for a stay of at least 1-2 days. Notable attractions in Shimane include stunning temples, historical monuments, and beautiful natural parks, all offering great value for money for those looking to explore the area's rich culture and scenery.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Shimane Prefecture offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a fantastic travel destination. To uncover last-minute deals on Hotels.com, check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, where you could find enticing discounts on accommodations as your travel date approaches. For the best chance to snag great offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you can stay informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, allowing you to save while exploring the charm of Japan.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices may fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. So, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you might find you could save on hotel expenses in Shimane Prefecture.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the heart of major cities in Shimane Prefecture offers undeniable convenience, especially for those eager to explore local attractions. However, this prime location often comes with a higher price tag. In contrast, accommodations in smaller towns and rural areas are more likely to be affordable, making them an appealing option for budget-conscious travelers. While choosing hotels outside the bustling city center may require a bit more travel to reach key sights, it can result in significant savings, allowing visitors to enjoy their stay without overspending.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Shimane Prefecture and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

Here are a few top-recommended restaurants in Shimane Prefecture, Japan:

• 由志園: A renowned destination for authentic Izumo soba, this restaurant takes pride in its handmade noodles, showcasing the region's rich tradition of buckwheat farming. Each dish is carefully crafted to highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients, providing a unique culinary experience that reflects Shimane's heritage.
• 神代そば: Celebrated for its exceptional soba dishes, this restaurant offers a modern twist on traditional Japanese cuisine. Guests can enjoy freshly made soba paired with local sauces and seasonal ingredients, creating a delightful fusion of taste and tradition that is both innovative and deeply rooted in the region's culture.
• KARLY tonomachi: This popular establishment emphasizes seasonal ingredients and local flavors in its creative menu. The innovative dishes often feature fresh seafood and local produce, paired with carefully selected sake from nearby breweries, providing a memorable dining experience that showcases the essence of Shimane's culinary landscape.

Shimane Prefecture has a varied climate due to its size, so the best time to visit depends on the region and your preferences for weather and crowds. April, July, and August are the peak travel months in Shimane Prefecture, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light to frequent rainfall. On the other hand, May, November, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.