7 Days of Culture and Nature in Izumo, Japan

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Izumo, Japan on February 27, 2025

10:00AM

Izumo Taisha Shrine

Visit one of Japan's oldest and most important Shinto shrines, known for its grand architecture and sacred atmosphere. The shrine is surrounded by beautiful cedar trees and offers a serene view.
JPY 0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Izumo Soba

Savor a bowl of Izumo-style soba noodles at this local favorite. Served cold with a dipping sauce, it's a delicious twist on the traditional noodle dish.
JPY 1200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo

Explore the history of the Izumo region through artifacts and exhibitions that reveal the area’s rich cultural past, including ancient burial mounds.
JPY 600, 2 hours

4:30PM

Izumo Cultural Museum

Learn about Izumo's local traditions and arts through interactive exhibits and displays of traditional crafts. It's a great way to understand the local lifestyle.
JPY 500, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Matsugoya

Enjoy a dinner specializing in grilled seafood and seasonal dishes, perfectly capturing the flavors of the region. Don't miss their famous grilled eel.
JPY 3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Local Markets and Nature

Izumo, Japan on February 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bakery Option

Start your day at a local bakery with fresh pastries and coffee. Try the matcha croissant for a unique twist!
JPY 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Waayama Shrine

Visit this tranquil shrine renowned for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It's less crowded and offers a peaceful experience.
JPY 0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit to Izumo Hinomisaki Lighthouse

Climb to the top of this scenic lighthouse for breathtaking ocean views. The cliffside location is an ideal spot for photographs.
JPY 200, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Udon Shop

Grab some delicious udon at this local eatery where the noodles are handmade daily. Try their tempura udon for a filling meal.
JPY 1000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Aizenshoen Garden

A beautiful traditional Japanese garden, perfect for a stroll. Enjoy the tranquility and seasonal flowers that bloom here.
JPY 400, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Katsuura

End your day with renowned katsu (breaded pork cutlet) at this cozy restaurant that locals frequent.
JPY 1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Discovery

Matsue, Japan on March 1, 2025

8:00AM

Travel to Matsue

Take a train to Matsue to start your day of cultural activities. The train ride is scenic and takes about 30 minutes.
JPY 500, 30 minutes

9:30AM

Matsue Castle

Explore Matsue Castle, one of Japan's few remaining original castles, standing atop a hill with wonderful views of the city and surrounding landscape.
JPY 600, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tofu Restaurant

Enjoy a vegan-friendly lunch at a restaurant specializing in freshly made tofu dishes. Their grilled tofu steak is a must-try.
JPY 1200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Shimane Art Museum

Visit this impressive art museum showcasing modern and traditional Japanese art. The museum has a beautiful view of the lake.
JPY 800, 2 hours

4:00PM

Local Craft Tour

Join a guided tour of local artisans specializing in traditional crafts such as pottery and textiles. Learning about these techniques is fascinating.
JPY 2000, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Izakaya

Experience a lively izakaya atmosphere while trying various small dishes and local sake. It's a fun way to immerse yourself in Japanese dining culture.
JPY 3000, 2 hours
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Day 4: Lake Views and Nature Trails

Matsue, Japan on March 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Coffee Shop

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring locally roasted coffee and soft pancakes with seasonal fruits at a quaint coffee shop.
JPY 900, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shinjiko Lake Cruise

Take a scenic boat cruise on Shinjiko Lake to experience the stunning views and local wildlife. It’s the best way to see the surrounding natural beauty.
JPY 1500, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Yuushien Garden

Wander through this beautiful garden with traditional Japanese landscaping and seasonal flowers. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy nature.
JPY 400, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Ramen Shop

Have a hearty bowl of ramen at a local shop known for its rich broth and handmade noodles. The spicy miso ramen is especially popular.
JPY 1100, 1 hour

2:30PM

Kinosaki Onsen Day Trip

Take a short train ride to a nearby onsen town. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the natural hot springs and enjoy the serene environment.
JPY 1500, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Onsen Restaurant

Enjoy a meal at the onsen restaurant featuring kaiseki dining—an elaborate multi-course dinner using seasonal and local ingredients.
JPY 4000, 2 hours
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Day 5: Mt. Daisen Adventure

Daisen, Japan on March 3, 2025

8:00AM

Travel to Daisen

Catch a train or bus to Daisen, renowned for its stunning mountain scenery and outdoor activities.
JPY 1000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Daisen Town Hiking

Embark on a hiking trail offering incredible views of Mt. Daisen and surrounding landscapes. The fresh mountain air is invigorating!
JPY 0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mountain Lodge

Recharge with a simple, hearty lunch at a mountain lodge. Enjoy local specialties like mountain vegetables and grilled fish.
JPY 1500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Daisenji Temple

Explore this serene Buddhist temple located close to the base of Mt. Daisen, offering peaceful surroundings and unique architecture.
JPY 400, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Daisen Foothills

Enjoy a light walk through the foothills, where blooming flowers and peaceful trails await you.
JPY 0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Local Izakaya Daisen

Enjoy a casual dinner at an izakaya where you can taste local dishes and enjoy a lively atmosphere.
JPY 2000, 2 hours
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Day 6: Cultural Highlights

Okayama, Japan on March 4, 2025

8:00AM

Travel to Okayama

Travel to Okayama by train, known for its historical and cultural attractions.
JPY 1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Okayama Korakuen Garden

Visit one of Japan’s three great gardens, known for its stunning landscape and seasonal flowers. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll.
JPY 400, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Okayama Castle

Explore Okayama Castle, an iconic symbol of the city, with impressive architecture and beautiful grounds.
JPY 600, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Local Café

Enjoy a light lunch at a quaint café, famous for its fresh salads and handmade sandwiches.
JPY 1200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Okayama Prefectural Museum of Art

Discover modern and contemporary art exhibitions showcasing both local and international artists.
JPY 800, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Okayama Yakitori

Experience the best yakitori in Okayama at an izakaya-style restaurant, where skewered chicken and other delights are served.
JPY 2500, 2 hours
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Day 7: Castal and Historical Day

Kurashiki, Japan on March 5, 2025

8:00AM

Travel to Kurashiki

Take a short train ride to the historic town of Kurashiki, known for its well-preserved Edo-period buildings.
JPY 500, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Bikan Historical Quarter

Wander through the picturesque streets of the Bikan Historical Quarter, featuring beautiful traditional buildings and an idyllic canal.
JPY 0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Ohara Museum of Art

Visit Japan’s first museum of Western art, showcasing an impressive collection of paintings and crafts.
JPY 1000, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Enjoy a lunch featuring regional dishes like Kurashiki-style pasta, combining Italian influences with Japanese ingredients.
JPY 1500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Kurashiki Folk Craft Museum

Learn about Kurashiki’s traditional crafts and see artisans at work, deeply tied to the region's history.
JPY 500, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Canal-side Restaurant

Dine at a charming restaurant overlooking the canal, known for its fresh seafood and local specialties.
JPY 3000, 2 hours
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