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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 Yasugi.
Nestled amid lush greenery and magnificent mountains, Yasugi is a treasure trove of cultural delights waiting to be explored.
From ancient Shinto shrines to traditional paper-making techniques, this quaint town in Japan beckons you to embark on an adventure of discovery.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Yasugi:
1. Adachi Museum of Art
The Adachi Museum of Art is a world-renowned museum located in Yasugi, Japan. It is dedicated to exhibiting contemporary Japanese art and showcasing a stunning collection of Japanese gardens.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s vast collection of over 1,500 Japanese paintings, ceramics, and sculpture. The highlight, however, are the six Japanese gardens that are ranked as some of the best in Japan.
Take a leisurely stroll through each garden and marvel at the meticulous attention to detail and beauty of each.
Don’t miss: A visit to the Yuushien garden, which is not only part of the museum but also holds the title of being one of the best Japanese gardens in the country.
This stunning garden is particularly breathtaking during the autumn season when the leaves change colors.
Insider travel tips: Pick up an audio guide from the museum’s entrance for an in-depth understanding of each garden and artwork.
2. Yasugi-bushi Folk Dance Museum
A museum dedicated to the Yasugi-bushi folk dance, a traditional dance originating from the Yasugi area in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can watch dance performances and learn about the history of the Yasugi-bushi dance. There are also exhibits showcasing the traditional costumes, instruments, and other elements of the dance.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to try dancing the Yasugi-bushi with a guide. It’s a fun way to immerse yourself in the culture and learn some new dance moves.
Insider travel tips: Check for upcoming events or performances at the museum to see the Yasugi-bushi dance in action.
Also, consider visiting during the Yasugi-bushi Festival, held annually in September, for a full experience of the dance and its significance in the local community.
3. Yaegaki Shrine
Yaegaki Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Yasugi, Shimane Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: – The main hall, Honden, featuring a unique architectural design combining Japanese and Chinese elements.
Don’t miss: – The unique omikuji (fortune-telling paper strips) that come in the shape of Japanese sake barrels.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during autumn to enjoy the vibrant foliage around the pond.
4. Matsue Castle
Matsue Castle is a historic Japanese castle located in Matsue city and is one of the few remaining original castles in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle grounds, climb to the top of the castle tower for panoramic views, and learn about the castle’s history through informative exhibits.
Don’t miss: The castle’s unique architecture, including its black exterior, moat, and secret passages.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the spring cherry blossom season for a picturesque view of the castle grounds. Also, buy tickets in advance to avoid long lines and crowds.
5. Lafcadio Hearn Memorial Museum
A museum dedicated to the life and works of Lafcadio Hearn, a Greek-born writer and journalist who is famous for his writings about Japan.
What to see or do: The museum is divided into two parts, the former residence of the Ochiai family (where Lafcadio Hearn lived for a short period) and a modern building with exhibitions.
In the former residence, visitors can see Hearn’s room, a tatami room, and a traditional Japanese garden.
In the modern building, there are displays of Hearn’s personal belongings, manuscripts, and other artifacts related to his life and work.
Don’t miss: The audio guide, which is available in multiple languages, provides detailed information and enhances the visitor’s experience. Also, the garden is especially beautiful during the autumn leaves season.
Insider travel tips: Visitors can try on traditional Japanese clothing and take a commemorative photo (for a fee). Also, the nearby Adachi Museum of Art is worth a visit for art lovers.
If you are interested in Hearn’s work, try reading some of his books before visiting the museum to better appreciate the exhibits.
6. Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine
Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine is one of Japan’s oldest and most important Shinto shrines. It is dedicated to the god of marriage and is famous for its unique architectural style.
What to see or do: Take a stroll around the expansive shrine grounds, a visit the main hall, and see the massive shimenawa (sacred rope) that hangs over the entrance.
Marvel at the impressive 24-meter-tall wooden pillars that support the roof.
Don’t miss: The main hall is home to the largest shimenawa in Japan, which weighs over 5 tons. Also, visit Kamuzuhara, a nearby sacred forest.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the annual Kamiarizuki Festival in October to see the shrine’s god visit the other gods in Japan. Avoid weekends and holidays for a more tranquil experience.
Finally, to show respect, make sure to cleanse yourself before entering the shrine.
7. Lake Shinji
Lake Shinji is a beautiful and serene lake located in Yasugi, Japan. It is the seventh-largest lake in Japan and is considered a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a scenic boat ride or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lake’s shore. The lake is also known for its stunning sunsets, which can be viewed from various observation points around the lake.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit Matsue Castle, a nearby fortress and one of the few remaining original castles in Japan. The castle offers a stunning view of the lake and the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting during the summer months, be sure to try the local specialty dish, grilled ayu fish, which is caught fresh from Lake Shinji.
Additionally, consider staying at one of the many traditional Japanese inns or hot spring resorts located along the lake’s shore for a truly immersive experience.
8. Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine
A historic silver mine that was one of the largest in the world during the Edo period.
What to see or do: Explore the underground tunnels, visit the historic administrative buildings, and learn about the mining process at the museum.
Don’t miss: The spectacular view of the Shishiodoshi Bridge, which was built to scare away bears with the sound of bamboo hitting rocks.
Insider travel tips: Be prepared for a lot of walking, as the mine is spread out over a large area. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
Consider hiring a guide to enhance your experience and learn more about the history of the mine.
9. Yunotsu Onsen
A historic hot spring town located in Yasugi, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy a relaxing hot spring bath in one of the many traditional ryokans, stroll down the charming streets lined with historic buildings, visit the Yunotsu History Museum and learn about the town’s fascinating past as a port for the nearby silver mine, and take a boat tour of the Ohashi River.
Don’t miss: The Yunotsu Onsen Festival held in early August, where locals carry portable shrines through the streets and celebrate with traditional music and dance performances.
Insider travel tips: Try the local specialty dish, “ishi-yaki-imo,” which is a sweet potato roasted on a hot stone and served with miso sauce.
Be sure to also visit nearby attractions such as the Adachi Museum of Art and the Matsue Castle.
If you plan to stay overnight in a ryokan, call ahead to reserve a private open-air bath for a truly tranquil experience.
10. Yasugi Sake Brewery Museum
Yasugi Sake Brewery Museum is a museum located in Yasugi, Japan that showcases the history and process of sake brewing.
What to see or do: Visitors can see various sake-making tools and equipment, such as wooden barrels, and learn about the traditional sake brewing process. The museum also offers tasting sessions, where visitors can sample various types of sake.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to try out the freshly brewed sake, which is only available for purchase at the museum.
The sake is said to have a unique and smooth taste due to the high-quality local rice and pure water used in the brewing process.
Insider travel tips: To fully experience the museum, it’s recommended to book a guided tour, which is available in English.
Also, if you’re interested in purchasing sake as a souvenir, make sure to check the opening hours as they vary depending on the season.
11. Hikawa Shrine
Hikawa Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Yasugi, Shimane Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: You can explore the beautiful Hikawa Shrine complex, which includes several buildings, such as the main shrine, a torii gate, a purification fountain, and a kagura stage.
There are also several walking paths, gardens, and a pond that you can enjoy.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the annual Taimatsu Akashi festival, held on the third Saturday of September, when huge torches are paraded through the shrine grounds.
Insider travel tips: Visit Hikawa Shrine early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
If you’re in the area in mid-October, be sure to also check out the nearby Adachi Museum of Art, which is known for its stunning garden and collection of contemporary Japanese art.
12. Kamosu Shrine
Kamosu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Yasugi, Shimane Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its unique architecture and connection to the famous 17th-century samurai warrior, Miyamoto Musashi.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the main shrine hall and its intricate carvings, as well as the surrounding forested grounds. The architecture of the shrine is said to reflect the strong influence of Korean design during the 6th century.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the famous “Musashi no Matsu,” a 400-year-old pine tree that is said to have been planted by Miyamoto Musashi himself.
It is a symbol of the connection between the legendary swordsman and the shrine.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the annual Kamosu Matsuri festival, held in early August, to experience traditional Japanese music, dance, and food. It’s also a great opportunity to see the shrine’s lively omikoshi (portable shrine) procession.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the shrine grounds are quite hilly.
13. Yaegaki-jinja Shrine Mori no Eki
Yaegaki-jinja Shrine Mori no Eki is a rest area and souvenir shop located next to the Yaegaki-jinja Shrine, in Yasugi city, Shimane prefecture.
What to see or do:
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to buy some local specialties such as Sasuke mochi, a type of sweet rice cake named after the legendary ninja Sasuke Sarutobi.
Insider travel tips: – The rest area has free Wi-Fi and clean restrooms.
14. Dakiyama Observation Deck
Dakiyama Observation Deck is a stunning viewing platform located in Yasugi, Japan.
What to see or do: Experience breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including Mt. Daisen and the Sea of Japan.
Take in the panoramic scenes of the green forests, serene river, and the picturesque skyline. You can also enjoy a relaxing picnic with your friends and family in the peaceful surroundings.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the observation deck in the early morning for the best views of the sunrise over Mt. Daisen.
Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views.
Insider travel tips: You can access the observation deck through a hiking trail from the Dakiyama Shrine. Wear comfortable shoes and carry drinking water.
The trail can be steep, but the views are worth it. Entrance to the observation deck is free, making it a great budget-friendly attraction.
15. Ryuunkyo Gorge
Ryuunkyo Gorge is a stunning natural site located in Yasugi, Japan. It’s known for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters running through a narrow gorge.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk along the wooden boardwalk that runs parallel to the gorge, admiring the lush surroundings. The gorge is especially beautiful during Autumn when the leaves change color.
Don’t miss: The highlight of Ryuunkyo Gorge is the suspension bridge that spans across the waters below, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding nature.
Insider travel tips: – Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get the best photos.