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If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Hamada.
Hamada is a vibrant city bursting with hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
From the majestic mountains surrounding the city to the bustling streets of downtown, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re in the mood to soak up Japan’s rich culture or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Hamada has a plethora of activities to offer.
So let’s dive in and explore the top things to do in this picturesque city.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Hamada:
1. Hamada Castle Ruins
Hamada Castle Ruins is a historic site located in Hamada City, Shimane Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The castle ruins offer visitors a glimpse of ancient architecture with stone walls, moats and a yagura tower remaining intact.
The ruins are surrounded by beautiful cherry blossom trees that bloom in spring, making the site an ideal spot for hanami or cherry blossom viewing.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a stroll through the ruins and appreciate its ancient grandeur. The view from the top of the castle is also breathtaking, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: – The admission to the castle is free.
2. Tachibana Shrine
Tachibana Shrine, a Shinto shrine located in Hamada City, Shimane Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll around the serene grounds dotted with traditional red torii gates, stone lanterns, and seasonal blooms. Admire the intricate architecture of the main sanctuary, with its ornate carvings and colorful paintings.
You can also purchase an omamori (Japanese amulet) to bring good luck and protection.
Don’t miss: The “Midoritaki” waterfall, which cascades down a mossy rockface, and the “Amano Iwato Shrine” that honors the legend of the Sun Goddess, Amaterasu.
Insider travel tips: Visit the shrine during one of the many festivals held throughout the year, including the Tachibana Shrine Festival in July, where you can witness traditional dances and music performances.
If you want to avoid crowds, come early in the morning or on a weekday. And don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes as there are a lot of steps!
3. Tottori Sand Dunes
Tottori Sand Dunes is a vast expanse of sand dunes located in Tottori, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk or take a camel ride on the sand dunes, which offer stunning views of the Sea of Japan.
The dunes are also a popular destination for paragliding and sandboarding.
Don’t miss: The sunset from the top of the sand dunes is breathtaking and definitely not to be missed. There is also a sand sculpture museum nearby that is worth a visit.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the sand can be hot and difficult to walk on. It’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat.
If you want to take a camel ride, be prepared to haggle with the operators for a fair price.
4. Misasa Onsen
A traditional onsen (hot spring) town located in the city of Hamada, Shimane Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can relax and rejuvenate in the many hot spring baths of Misasa Onsen’s various ryokans (Japanese-style inns). There are also public bathhouses available, such as Misasa-no-Yu and Yumotokan.
In addition to the hot springs, visitors can explore the surrounding nature, including the nearby Mount Sanbe and Misasa River.
Don’t miss: A visit to Misasa-kan, a museum that showcases the area’s geology and the unique radioactive hot spring waters. Visitors can also participate in a footbath experience at Tsukimi no Yu, a public footbath located by the river.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Misasa Onsen is during the autumn season when the colorful leaves complement the natural beauty of the area.
Additionally, visitors should keep their tattoos covered as most ryokans and public bathhouses have a strict no-tattoo policy.
5. Mizuki Shigeru Road
Mizuki Shigeru Road is a street in Hamada, Japan dedicated to the life and work of manga artist Mizuki Shigeru.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the street and find various sculptures and monuments depicting Mizuki’s famous characters, such as GeGeGe no Kitaro. There are also museums and galleries showcasing Mizuki’s art and memorabilia.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the bronze statue of Mizuki himself, sitting on a bench, and take a photo with him.
Another highlight is the Yokai Shrine, where visitors can pay respects to various yokai creatures.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting during a weekday to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience exploring the street. Don’t forget to try some local cuisine while in Hamada, such as Hamaguri Clams or Tajima beef.
6. Hakuto Beach
A secluded beach located in Hamada City, Japan.
What to see or do: Relax on the white sandy beach and swim in the clear waters. Explore the nearby hiking trails and enjoy a picnic with a stunning view.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking sunset over the Sea of Japan.
Insider travel tips: Bring a picnic and plenty of water, as there are no facilities on the beach. Visit during the week to avoid crowds.
Stay until evening for a chance to see the star-filled night sky.
7. Sanin Kaigan National Park
Sanin Kaigan National Park is a scenic coastal park located in Hamada, Japan.
What to see or do: The park offers stunning views of the Sea of Japan and the surrounding mountains.
Visitors can take a relaxing stroll along the sandy beach, go hiking on the numerous trails, and enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, fishing, and camping.
The park also features several historic shrines and temples, such as the Kumano Sanzan Shrine and the Taiki Shrine.
Don’t miss: Take a boat tour to see the majestic 25-meter-high white cliffs of Kami-Koide, the unique rock formations of Tsubaki-iwa and Unabara, and the scenic Oki-Saeki Beach.
Also, don’t miss the annual Hamada Lantern Festival, where thousands of lanterns light up the city streets and the park.
Insider travel tips: For the best views of the sunset, head to the Shiomizaka Observation Deck located on the park’s west coast.
It’s recommended to visit the park in the spring or fall when the weather is milder and there are fewer crowds.
In addition, try the local seafood delicacies such as the Hamaguri clam and the Matsuba crab, which are highly regarded by locals and visitors alike.
8. Hamayama Park
A beautiful park located in the center of Hamada city in Shimane Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll through the park, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and visit the tea house for a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
Hamayama Park is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing (hanami) in the spring, with over 200 cherry trees lining the park’s paths.
Don’t miss: The Hamayama Park Observatory which offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Insider travel tips: Visit the park in the early morning or late evening to experience a peaceful atmosphere and avoid the crowds. The tea house also serves light meals and snacks, including traditional Japanese sweets to accompany your tea.
9. Hamada City Museum of Art
The Hamada City Museum of Art is a modern art museum located in Hamada city, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum features a collection of contemporary Japanese art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations. Visitors can explore the rotating exhibits, which showcase different themes and artists.
Don’t miss: One of the museum’s highlights is the outdoor sculpture garden, which displays large-scale artworks surrounded by the natural beauty of the surrounding park.
Additionally, visitors can take in panoramic views of the city from the museum’s rooftop terrace.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is conveniently located near other cultural attractions in Hamada, such as the Hamada Castle and the Iwami Kagura Traditional Performance Hall.
10. Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine
A historic silver mine located in Hamada, Japan, that was active from the 16th to the 20th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What to see or do: Take a tour of the mine and see how silver was extracted in the early years. Visit the nearby town of Omori, where many of the miners lived, and see their former homes.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking outdoors and underground.
11. Atagoyama Park
Atagoyama Park is a serene park located in the heart of Hamada city.
What to see or do: The park is a beautiful place to take a stroll or have a picnic. It offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: The observatory deck located at the top of the park’s hill which provides an absolutely breathtaking panoramic view of the city.
Insider travel tips: If you’re a nature enthusiast, be sure to take a walk along Atagoyama’s famous Goshiki-numa trail, famous for its beautiful natural woodlands and majestic cedar trees.
Don’t forget to pack a picnic and enjoy the beautiful scenic views of the city.
12. Yoshika-en Garden
A picturesque Japanese-style garden located in Hamada City, Shimane Prefecture.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the serene walking paths and admire the beautiful ponds, bridges, and lush greenery. Watch out for the resident koi fish swimming in the clear waters.
Don’t miss: The stunning view of the garden from the tea house. Enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony while taking in the tranquil surroundings.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the autumn months to witness the vibrant colors of the changing leaves.
The garden can get crowded during peak season, so try to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
13. Mori no Kuni Hamada
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the trails, bring insect repellent in the summer months, and make sure to try traditional Japanese sweets at the park’s tea house.
14. Tachikue Gorge
Tachikue Gorge, located in Hamada, is a stunning natural attraction that features a narrow gorge carved by the Tachikue River.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a peaceful hike along the river and take in the towering cliffs and rock formations surrounding them. The water is crystal clear, and visitors can spot fish swimming in the river.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the Tachikue Bridge, a suspension bridge that offers spectacular views of the gorge from above. Visitors can also take a boat tour of the gorge and appreciate the beauty from a different perspective.
Insider travel tips: Visit in autumn when the leaves change color, and the gorge is especially vibrant. Wear comfortable shoes with good grip for hiking, and don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views.
15. Hamada Fish Market
Hamada Fish Market is a bustling marketplace located in the city of Hamada in Japan’s Shimane Prefecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can witness a wide variety of fresh seafood being sold and can even engage in auctions with local fishermen for the best catches of the day.
Don’t miss: Be sure to try the sashimi, sushi, and other local seafood delicacies at the many restaurants and food stalls located in and around the market.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get the best selection of seafood. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring cash as many vendors do not accept credit or debit cards.