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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Yunotsu sharing quite a few of those!
Yunotsu is a hidden gem waiting to be unearthed.
Nestled between the mountains and the sea, this picturesque town is a treasure trove of activities that will sweep you off your feet.
From hot springs that wash away your worries to streets full of history, Yunotsu is brimming with experiences that will make you fall in love with the simplicity of life.
So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey full of adventure, bliss, and wonder.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Yunotsu:
1. Yunotsu Onsen
A historic hot spring town in Shimane prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy the therapeutic waters in one of the many public baths or traditional ryokans, stroll through the charming streets lined with traditional Japanese buildings and shops, visit the local shrine or the nearby Adachi Museum of Art.
Don’t miss: The Tanmono Yudono, a unique public bath with a large stone bathtub, and the Gakko no Yu, a modern bathhouse with both indoor and outdoor pools.
Insider travel tips: For a more authentic experience, stay at one of the traditional ryokans in town and try the local specialties such as mochi (rice cake) and seafood dishes.
Also, be sure to visit during the off-season when the town is less crowded and the prices are more affordable.
2. Hashiriyu Onsen
Hashiriyu Onsen is a traditional hot spring inn located in the small village of Yunotsu, Japan.
What to see or do: Visit the gender-segregated public baths and relax in the natural hot springs. Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Take a stroll around the charming village and visit nearby attractions like the Adachi Museum of Art or the Daisen-Oki National Park.
Don’t miss: Experience a Japanese cultural activity like a tea ceremony or calligraphy lesson. Enjoy a rejuvenating massage or skincare treatment at the onsite spa.
Insider travel tips: Try the local specialty dish, “mikan” – a grilled fish with a special citrus sauce. Take advantage of the free shuttle service to explore nearby attractions.
Book the private outdoor bath for a more intimate hot spring experience.
3. Yunotsu Traditional Wooden Houses
Yunotsu is a small hot spring town in Japan that offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and experience traditional Japanese culture.
What to see or do: One of the main attractions in Yunotsu is the traditional wooden houses that line the streets. These houses have been preserved and restored to showcase the architectural style of the Edo Period.
Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the town, admire the intricate woodwork and soak up the serene atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the En-Muji Temple, which is also known as the “Temple of Lucky Dreams”. The temple has a beautiful garden and a peaceful atmosphere, making it the perfect place to reflect and relax.
Insider travel tips: If you want to experience the hot springs, be sure to check out some of the local ryokans.
These traditional Japanese inns offer guests a chance to stay in a traditional-style room, wear yukatas, and enjoy delicious Japanese meals.
Also, consider visiting during the winter months to witness the beautiful snow-covered scenery.
4. Kitagama Kiln
Kitagama Kiln is a traditional ceramic studio located in Yunotsu, a small onsen (hot spring) town on the coast of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can observe the local artisans creating beautiful pottery by hand, using traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations.
In addition to watching the production process, guests can also purchase exquisite pottery pieces as souvenirs.
Don’t miss: The tea ceremony held in the showroom, where guests can appreciate and enjoy the beauty of the exquisite pottery while sipping on fragrant Japanese green tea.
Insider travel tips: – Check the kiln’s opening hours in advance to ensure a visit during a time when there will be staff on hand to guide you.
5. Shuhoukaku Kogetsu Museum
Shuhoukaku Kogetsu is a museum located in Yunotsu, Japan that celebrates the art and life of Kogetsu An, a renowned Japanese painter, calligrapher, and poet.
What to see or do: Visitors to the museum can see a collection of Kogetsu An’s artwork, including calligraphy, sketches, and paintings. The museum also offers an insight into his life, with displays of personal artifacts such as his own writing tools.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is undoubtedly the view. It is set in a beautiful Japanese garden that overlooks the sea.
The view from the balcony is worth the trip alone.
Insider travel tips: As the museum can get quite busy, try to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
The gift shop sells a range of limited edition items, including books and postcards, so make sure to check it out before leaving.
Finally, the museum does not permit photography inside, so make sure to drink in the art with your own eyes.
6. Adachi Museum of Art
Adachi Museum of Art is a world-renowned museum located in the tranquil town of Yunotsu, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum houses a collection of contemporary Japanese art, including paintings, ceramics, and sculptures.
But the main attraction is the stunning Japanese garden, which has been ranked as the best garden in Japan by the Journal of Japanese Gardening for 18 consecutive years.
Visitors can take a peaceful stroll through the garden, admiring its meticulously manicured lawns, ponds, and bridges.
Don’t miss: The museum’s world-class collection of paintings by Yokoyama Taikan, one of Japan’s most celebrated artists.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit the museum during the fall season, when the gardens are the most picturesque.
Also, be sure to grab a bite to eat at the museum’s restaurant, which serves up delicious Japanese dishes using local ingredients.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a dip in the nearby hot springs of Yunotsu Onsen to complete your day of relaxation.
7. Tamatsukuri Onsen
Tamatsukuri Onsen is a hot spring town located in the city of Matsue in Shimane Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy the therapeutic effects of the hot springs at the public bathhouses and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) in the town.
The waters are said to be effective for treating various ailments, including joint pain and muscle fatigue, and for promoting overall relaxation.
Don’t miss: One of the must-visit spots in Tamatsukuri Onsen is the Tamatsukuriyu Shrine, which houses the “Yumekaido,” a corridor of dreams that depicts the seven fields of life.
The shrine is also known for its “healing waters,” which are believed to bring good fortune to those who drink from them.
Insider travel tips: For a unique experience, try “ashi-yu,” a foot bath where visitors can soak their feet in the hot spring waters while enjoying the scenic views of the town.
Also, don’t forget to try the local specialty food, “horan,” which is a type of sweet potato confectionery that is only available in Tamatsukuri Onsen.
8. Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine
Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine is a prominent Shinto shrine located in the city of Izumo, Shimane Prefecture, Japan. It is considered to be one of the oldest and most important shrines in the country.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the vast shrine grounds and appreciate the impressive architecture of the various buildings.
The main hall, called the honden, is especially noteworthy for its unique thatched roof, which is the largest of its kind in Japan.
Don’t miss: A visit to the Okuninushi-no-Okami shrine, located within the Izumo Taisha grounds, is a must-see. It is dedicated to the god of matchmaking, and visitors can purchase charms and amulets related to love and relationships.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should plan to visit during the annual Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine Festival, which takes place in October and is the largest festival of its kind in Japan.
It’s also recommended to stay in the nearby town of Yunotsu, which has a charming hot springs district and is easily accessible via train or bus.
9. Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo
Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo is a museum dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of the Izumo region in Japan.
What to see or do: The museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the region’s history, including artifacts from the Izumo Taisha shrine, one of the oldest and most important Shinto shrines in Japan.
Visitors can see the precious remains of ancient buildings, clay figurines, bronze bells, mirrors, and swords.
Don’t miss: The impressive life-size reconstruction of the Izumo Taisha shrine is a must-see.
The museum also has an extensive collection of pottery and earthenware that showcases the unique styles and techniques developed in the region over centuries.
Insider travel tips: Plan to spend at least a couple of hours here to fully appreciate the museum’s exhibits. If you’re interested in learning more about the region’s history, hire one of the English-speaking guides available at the museum.
While you’re in the area, take a trip to the nearby hot spring town of Yunotsu, famous for its sulfuric hot springs and charming Edo Period architecture.
10. Gujo Hachiman Castle
Gujo Hachiman Castle is a historic castle located in the city of Gujo, Japan. It was built in the 16th century and is known for its unique design and architecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle and learn about its rich history. The castle’s interior features exhibits that showcase the castle’s importance in Japan’s feudal era.
Tourists can climb up to the castle’s top floor and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take photos of the stunning architecture of the castle. Visitors can also participate in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies and cultural performances held at the castle.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to visit during the cherry blossom season in April when the castle is surrounded by beautiful blooming trees.
Visitors should wear comfortable shoes for walking around the castle and bring moderate weather clothing as the weather can change quickly.
11. Horaibashi Bridge
Horaibashi Bridge is a historical suspension bridge located in Yunotsu, Japan.
What to see or do: The bridge offers a stunning view of the Yunotsu Bay and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll across the bridge and enjoy the scenery.
Don’t miss: A visit to the nearby Yunotsu Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in their healing waters.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Horaibashi Bridge is during autumn when the foliage on the surrounding mountains turns into beautiful shades of red and gold.
Additionally, visitors can explore the surrounding Yunotsu town and its traditional Japanese architecture.
12. Konpon Shrine
A historic Shinto shrine located in the onsen town of Yunotsu, Japan.
What to see or do: At Konpon Shrine, visitors can view the beautiful traditional architecture and grounds, including a torii gate that stands in the sea.
In addition, the shrine is home to various religious artifacts and symbols.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the nearby town of Yunotsu, a charming onsen town that is also a World Heritage Site.
Visitors can enjoy hot springs, traditional ryokan inns, and local food.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Konpon Shrine is in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Also, be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the grounds can be uneven in some areas.
Finally, consider visiting during the annual Yunotsu Festival in August when the town comes alive with colorful floats, traditional music, and dancing.
13. Yunotsu Municipal Nishin Onsen Aquarium
Yunotsu Municipal Nishin Onsen Aquarium is a small yet fascinating aquarium located in the historic hot spring town of Yunotsu, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy seeing a variety of ocean creatures including colorful fish, jellyfish, seahorses, and more.
What makes this aquarium unique is its focus on showcasing the aquatic life found in the local waters of the Sea of Japan.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the feeding demonstrations and touch pool where you can interact with some of the sea creatures.
The aquarium also offers a relaxing foot bath experience using natural hot spring water.
Insider travel tips: – Combine a visit to the aquarium with a hot spring bath experience at one of the nearby traditional inns.
14. Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse
Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse, located in the town of Yunotsu, is a historic lighthouse built in 1903.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb the lighthouse stairs for a breathtaking view of the Sea of Japan and the surrounding coastline.
The lighthouse’s museum features exhibits on maritime history and the important role that lighthouses played in guiding ships safely to shore.
Don’t miss: The sunset view from the top of the lighthouse is not to be missed, especially on a clear day. Visitors can also explore the nearby Hinomisaki Shrine, which is considered one of Japan’s oldest shrines.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
Be sure to bring comfortable shoes for the climb to the top of the lighthouse, as there are many stairs to navigate.
Finally, take some time to explore the charming town of Yunotsu, which is home to a number of historic hot springs and traditional Japanese bathhouses.