Backpacks on, let's go!

This land has deep roots with mythology and holds a wealth of interesting places from revered shrines and temples, important cultural artifacts and breathtaking natural beauty.

The San'in area is not connected to the rest of the country by high-speed trains, allowing the region to maintain as natural an environment as possible. The railway network along the San'in coast offers a pleasant way to take in the views.

Let's start the journey

This region is home to Izumo Taisha Shrine, which is considered the oldest in Japan, but also has ties to Japanese creation mythology as it is the home of Okuninushi no Okami, the deity said to have created the land of Japan.

From here you can reach Cape Hinomisaki and observe one of the tallest lighthouses in the country, and from the bridge visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding rugged coastline.

Continuing on you come to Inasa Beach, where it is said that the gods land once a year for their annual gathering at Izumo Taisha and the scenery is spectacular.

Continuing along the trail you reach Tamatsukuri Onsen, which is believed to be one of the oldest hot spring towns in the country, consisting of traditional Japanese inns.

Another essential stop as you continue your journey is Yaegaki Shrine, famous for the custom of placing a coin on a piece of special paper and floating it on a sacred pond. The time it takes for the coin to sink the fortune indicates the time it takes for the person to find true love.

From the shrine, you head towards the city of Matsue, where there is a castle renowned for its excellent restaurants and for being one of the few whose main keep has survived from the Edo period. Entering the castle and visiting the interior, you reach a bridge, from which you can observe the city.

Within the San’in region, you can find a hot spring town in Tottori Prefecture, Kaike Onsen. Full of Japanese-style inns, it allows you to live a 100% Japanese experience.

Another destination worth visiting is Kiyomizu Temple where visitors can practice Buddhist techniques.

Another temple famous for its fantastic view is Daisenji Temple.

Now that we have an overview of the San’in region, all that remains is to prepare for a hiking trip.