Day 2 of my trip to Shimane began with a gentle rain in the morning.
At 9 a.m., we left Masuda Station by bus, heading east. Today’s route included visits to Gotsu, Unnan, Izumo, and finally Matsue.
Morning: A Meeting in Masuda and the Beauty of Takatsu River
We started with a meeting on local revitalization. What impressed me most was the Takatsu River — once voted the cleanest river in Japan. It’s a symbol of the area’s rich natural environment. I also learned that the region is known for melon farming, showing how agriculture and community ties are deeply rooted.
Lunch with a View of the Sea
After the meeting, we traveled along the scenic coastline. On the left, the Sea of Japan stretched out; on the right, lush green hills.
We stopped at a small restaurant that also runs a guesthouse. The sashimi was incredibly fresh — an unforgettable lunch.
The warm farewell from the staff, who waved us off, left a lasting impression.
Afternoon: Discussions in Gotsu
In Gotsu, we had another meeting. The city benefits from the water of the Gōnokawa River and its coastal port. One major strength of Shimane as a whole is its relative safety from natural disasters, making it attractive for business continuity. A large chimney from Nippon Paper’s factory marks the industrial presence along the coast.
Evening: Through Unnan and Izumo to Matsue
We continued eastward, passing through Izumo and Unnan. I enjoyed the changing landscapes from the bus window. Though the day began in rain, the sun eventually came out, revealing patches of blue sky.
Night in Matsue: Hot Spring Relaxation
After checking into our hotel in Matsue, I was pleased to find it had a hot spring bath sourced from Lake Shinji. A long soak helped ease the fatigue of the day — and reminded me why I love travel.
It was a day of discovery — of nature, of kind people, and of quiet strength. Tomorrow promises more new encounters.
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