21. Tourism
Shimane Prefecture
Shimane consists of three regions: Izumo, Iwami, and Oki. Shimane is an ancient region of Japan, steeped in myth and legend. Tales of the eight headed Dragon, Yamato no Orochi are famous throughout Japan. There is also an abundance of nature and a wide variety of local produce. In recent years a number of new culture and leisure attractions have opened in Shimane, drawing in more tourists every year.
Tourist Information Centers
Tourist information centers in Shimane provide information on all local tourist attractions. (Some tourist information centers also advise on accommodation.) The majority of tourist information centers are located at airports, stations, and tourist resorts. Municipal offices also provide information within their jurisdiction.
◆Inquiries for Tourist information in Hamada City◆
| ・ Hamada City Tourism Association (In JR Hamada Station) Tel (0855)24-1085 Operating Hours : 9:00-18:30 (From April to September on weekday) : 9:00-18:00 (From January to March and from October to December on weekdays) : 9:00-17:00 (On Sundays and holidays throughout year) ・ Hamada City Council / Commerce, Industry, and Tourism Division / Tourism Section Tel (0855)22-2612 Ext.229 Operating Hours : 8:30-17:15 (Except holidays and the year-end and new-year) |
Tour Guides
In Shimane, there are some volunteer groups which guide tourists. Guides are often free, but the transport expense is payable. In Matsue, there are some tour guide groups which guide in English. For further information, ask each volunteer group.
| Location | Name of Organization | Telephone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Matsue-shi | Matsue City Good Will Guide Association (※ English is available) | (0852)21-4034 |
| Matsue City Tour Volunteer Guide | (0852)27-5843 | |
| Matsue City Silver Talent Center / Tour Guide Group | (0852)27-0888 | |
| Izumo Kuni Mahoroba Guide Group | (0852)21-1382 | |
| Izumo-shi | Izumo City Keijinkai Union / Silver Guide Izumo | (0853)23-3781 |
| Ancient Izumo Kingdom Cultural Assets / Volunteer Guide Group | (0853)21-2211 | |
| Hamada-shi | Hamada City Tour Volunteer Guide Group | (0855)24-1085 |
| Masuda-shi | Hamada Tour Guide Group | (0856)22-7120 |
| Ouda-shi | Sanbe Nature Interpreter Group | (0854)82-1499 |
| Iwami Ginzan Volunteer Guide | (0854)89-0330 | |
| Sanbe Nature Hall Interpreter Group | (0854)86-0216 | |
| Hirose-machi | Hirose-machi Historic Spot Guide Association | (0854)32-2767 |
| Hikawa-cho | Hikawa-cho Koujindani Historic Spot Park Silver Tour Guide | (0853)72-9044 |
| Taisha-machi | Taisha Tour Volunteer Guide Group | (0853)53-3357 |
| Kamo-machi | Yuugaku Volunteer Group | (0854)49-6586 |
| Nichihara-cho | Nichihara Nature Guide | (08567)4-0021 |
