Shimane Prefecture

Shimane is a mountainous, sparsely populated coastal prefecture in the western part of Japan's Honshu Island. The capital, Matsue, is set on Lake Shinji. It's home to 17th-century Matsue Castle, with hilltop views. Along the castle's moat, Shiomi Nawate is lined with Edo-era homes. Izumo Taisha, in nearby Izumo, is among Japan's earliest Shinto complexes. Its main hall displays the rare Taisha architectural style.