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 In 1940, with a population of fifty thousand Hamada City became the second city in Shimane Prefecture to adopt a municipal administrative system. Located in the centre of the western part of the prefecture, Hamada is out of 8 cities in Shimane the closest to Hiroshima Prefecture. Its beautiful coast captivates visitors.
 It is believed that the Manyo poet Kaki-no-moto Hitomaro, who became the first governor of Iwami province in the latter half of the seventh century, ruled from Hamada. Since then the city has flourished as both the political and cultural centre of the region.
 For approximately 250 years after the completion of its castle in 1620, Hamada flourished as a castle town during the Edo era (1601~1868). After 1945, the great renovation of the city’s harbour led to significant development in commerce, industry, and marine business. It also quickly emerged as the economic centre of the local area.
 Presently, Hamada is planning the large-scale development of holiday resorts with the aim of developing its tourist industry.

Iwami Kagura, the folk art we proudly present to the world
 Ancient in origin the Iwami Kagura are both rhythmic and spiritual. Their stories, filled with dance and music, open for the audience a door into the realm of fantasy.