Shimane

Shimane prefecture is located facing the sea of Japan along the coast of the Chugoku region in western Japan. Shimane has the 2nd smallest population (after Tottori prefecture) in Japan but boasts a rich history and many scenic spots to enjoy. Izumo Taisha, one of the oldest shrines in Japan, where you can pray to the gods of love and marriage and is said to be the meeting place for the gods of Japanese mythology. Shimane is also home to the World Heritage Site, Iwami Ginzan Silver mine, which at it's peak in the 17th century Japan produced 1/3 of the world's silver of which the majority was mined from Iwami Ginzan. Shimane also has a group of islands called the Oki islands located just north of it's shores which are famous for being part of the global geopark network due to it's natural beauty and unique biodiversity.