Where to Go in Shimane : 5 Family-Friendly Adventures
If you are looking for a family-friendly travel in Shimane Prefecture, Japan, here is our curated list of activities.
From the enchanting world of Shimane Aquarium Aquas to the artistic wonders of Hamada Children Museum of Art, there's something for every member of the family. Dive into nature at Sky Farm for fruit picking, unwind at the scenic Kaze no Kuni hot spring resort, and experience the rich cultural heritage through the captivating art of Kagura.
Please join us on an unforgettable exploration in rural Japan with us!
Places to Visit
1. Shimane Aquarium Aquas
2. Hamada Children Museum of Art
3. Sky Farm for fruits picking
4. Kaze no Kuni
5. Kagura
1. Shimane Aquarium Aquas
This aquarium has become our family's summer sanctuary.
Every time we visit there, we immerse ourselves in the world of sea creatures from majestic sharks and graceful octopuses to the unique fish of the Sea of Japan. Penguin antics and more await also as you explore.
For us, the real star of the show is always the white dolphins. They steal the spotlight with their adorable performances and jaw-dropping tricks!
I am sure your family’s underwater adventure at Shimane Aquarium Aquas turns out to be a full of marine marvels.
2. Hamada Children Museum of Art
The museum was established in 1996 to nurture creativity through art at a young age. Their theme is “See,” “Create,” and “Play” together.
This children museum showcases western, Japanese, and contemporary arts for a year-round for young children. Also creative workshops offer diverse opportunities to learn about drawing, painting, building objects, and sometimes it involves scientific experiments.
When our children visit the museum, they enjoy the workshops as the museum holds different themed activities every year. One time it was themed of “River” and we learned about local river by seeing, feeling and creating. Another time was for “Forest”, they gained their knowledge for the nature cycle and animals in the forest.
3. Sky Farm Fruits Picking
On the way driving to downtown of Masuda city from Hamada city in Shimane, this fruit picking farm lies in the heart of nature with a memorable experience.
With the backdrop of serene landscapes, they offer two fruit picking options - grapes (880 yen) and Asian pears, called "Nashi” in Japanese (1,500 yen). It’s an all-you-can-eat style as indulging the fresh fruits after you pick them.
Our kids had tried grapes one year, and another year for the Asian pears. They can use ladders to reach high into the trees, twisting the stems for the Asian pears, or using a pair of scissors to harvest the ripened grapes. The farm even provides fruit knives for easy peeling for Asian pears allowing your family to savor the delicious fruits.
Their harvest season is August to September for grapes, middle of August to October for Asian pear. If your visit is in a hot summer day, I would recommend to be there in the morning before it get’s hot.
4. Kaze no Kuni
Kaze No Kuni is a hot spring resort in Gotsu city, Shimane.
In the middle of nature, it offers hot springs, glamping facilities, a gallery for woodworking and paper-making experiences, a playground, tennis courts, and more. The backdrop is a breathtaking view of majestic mountains.
We strolled through the grounds, soaked in the hot springs, and had a delightful half-day enjoying woodworking experience which we made “Taketombo”, a dragonfly shaped wooden Japanese toy
Soak in Nature's Hot Springs Explore the hot spring resort of Kaze No Kuni in Gotsu city, Shimane, nestled in the heart of nature. With hot springs, glamping facilities, a woodworking gallery, paper-making experiences, a playground, and tennis courts, Kaze no Kuni offers a delightful escape. Enjoy a breathtaking view of majestic mountains as you stroll through the grounds, soak in the hot springs, and engage in woodworking experiences. Experience the rejuvenating blend of nature and relaxation at Kaze no Kuni.
5. Kagura
Iwami Kagura is a traditional Japanese performing art that originated in the Iwami region, west side of Shimane Prefecture. Its history is deeply intertwined with local folk tales and legends, and it has been passed down through generations, maintaining its significance to this day.
The word "kagura" itself refers to sacred Shinto music and dance, and Iwami Kagura certainly lives up to this definition.
You can check their monthly show schedule here (Japanese). There are performances at day time that it’s easy for family to enjoy the show.
