If you’re a couple looking to tie the knot, this is the place to be! Here are 5 date spots in Shimane that will help you forge lasting bonds.

Located on the Sea of Japan in the Chūgoku region, Shimane Prefecture enjoys a mild climate that makes it very pleasant to live in. The region is steeped in history, with numerous ancient ruins dating back to the Paleolithic era; shell middens from the Jomon period, bronze artifacts from the Yayoi period, and keyhole-shaped burial mounds from the Kofun period have all been unearthed here.

Shimane has long been celebrated in Japan’s ancient texts. The Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, for example, feature Izumo as their setting, and the founding myth of Izumo Taisha is recorded there. Additionally, historical figures like Kakinomoto no Hitomaro have even composed poems about this land in the Man'yōshū. As a result, this region has been beloved by Japan’s greatest historical icons.

Taking advantage of the blessings of the Sea of Japan, Shimane’s fishing industry is also thriving—its catches of red snow crabs, yellowtail, and clams have ranked number one in the nation. From the traditional legends of matchmaking to the bountiful sea harvests, here are 5 Shimane date spots perfect for couples to enjoy together!

1. Izumo Taisha – The highlight of October when all the gods are said to gather!

When it comes to date spots in Shimane, nothing beats Izumo Taisha, famous for its matchmaking prowess. It is said that every October, gods from all over Japan come together here, making it one of Shimane’s most celebrated sites for couples.

This ancient shrine, chronicled even in the Nihon Shoki, has protected the land of Izumo for about 1,300 years. Enshrining Ōkuninushi as its sacred deity, Izumo Taisha is revered as the “God of Matchmaking,” and it is immensely popular with couples from all over Japan who wish to forge or deepen their bonds.

2. Matsue Castle – A National Treasure with a Graceful, Wide-Open Silhouette Like a Plover in Flight!

Matsue Castle, a beloved symbol of Shimane, was built by Horio Yoshiharu after the Battle of Sekigahara.

During the cherry blossom season, when roughly 200 cherry trees—Somei Yoshino, Yaezakura, and Shidarezakura—are in full bloom, the castle is simply breathtaking and has even been selected as one of “Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots.” It’s no wonder that Matsue Castle has become one of the most popular date spots in Shimane.

3. Shimane Aquarium Aquas

Don’t miss Shimane Aquarium Aquas, a must-visit for couples exploring Shimane. Opened in 2000, it is the largest aquarium in the Chūgoku and Shikoku regions. At Aquas, you can enjoy performances featuring dolphins, sea lions, seals, and penguins.

A particular highlight for couples is the show featuring white dolphins—a performance unique to Aquas in Western Japan. In this “Happy Bubble Ring” show, the white dolphins create rings out of bubbles from their mouths and even invite the audience to join in. Couples who watch this delightful performance are said to be blessed with happiness!

4. Yaegaki Shrine – An Exhilarating Date Spot Where You Can Have Your Destiny Foretold!

Yaegaki Shrine in Matsue is dedicated to the married couple deified after Susanoo slayed the eight-headed serpent and saved Inadahime-no-mikoto, becoming husband and wife. This shrine has long been cherished by the people of Shimane, with folk songs expressing wishes for matchmaking.

Additionally, two camellia branches planted by Inadahime-no-mikoto at the shrine’s entrance are said to have merged into one, earning the name “Couple’s Camellia.” It is believed that praying here brings good fortune in love. With three “Couple’s Camellia” trees on the shrine grounds—known for regenerating even if they wither—this is a truly magical and heart-pounding date spot.

5. Shimane Art Museum – A Date Spot Where Even the Sunset Over Lake Shinji Looks Like a Work of Art

Nestled along the shore of Lake Shinji, the Shimane Art Museum is designed to evoke the image of “nagi (seashore)”—a fusion of water and earth that celebrates the harmony of nature. The museum houses an exquisite collection of paintings, prints, photographs, crafts, and sculptures by both domestic and international artists, featuring works by masters such as Katsushika Hokusai, Monet, and Gauguin.

Outside the museum, a striking sculpture of 12 rabbits, known as the “Shinji Lake Rabbits,” is said to bestow a lasting bond if you touch the “second rabbit” from the lake. Moreover, the museum offers a magnificent view of the sunset over Lake Shinji, which has been selected as one of “Japan’s Top 100 Sunsets.” Sharing this breathtaking moment with your partner is sure to create an unforgettable memory.

◎ Summary

How did you like these date spots in Shimane? This region, known as the Land of Connections, is steeped in traditions of matchmaking and blessed with an abundance of natural and cultural treasures. From ancient shrines and majestic castles to world-class aquariums and art museums, Shimane offers couples countless opportunities to strengthen their bonds.

Whether you’re seeking divine guidance in love or simply want to enjoy the exquisite local cuisine and breathtaking scenery, Shimane’s diverse attractions are sure to capture your heart. Enjoy your romantic adventure in Shimane—where destiny and nature converge in perfect harmony!

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If you’re a couple looking to tie the knot, this is the place to be! Here are 5 date spots in Shimane that will help you forge lasting bonds.