Tsuwano, a picturesque castle town, lies on the border of Shimane and Yamaguchi. Often called the Little Kyoto of Shimane prefecture, the main attraction here is the town center, Tonomachi, with its fine old buildings and canals, filled with thousands of colorful carp and irises. One of Tsuwano's m...

The Chugoku region's largest aquarium is the Shimane Aquarium Aquas, at the Iwami Seaside Park just a short stroll from the Japan Sea coast. The aquarium has a wonderful collection, including a huge shark tank with a glass tunnel running through it. An artificial tide pool is a favorite with child...