After visiting Izumo Taisha, I came to Miho Shrine. I stayed overnight in Mihonoseki specifically to see the 8:30 a.m. ritual. Miho Shrine is quite small and compact, and the ritual didn't seem as grand as what people online had previously shared, but it was still fine to experience. After all, it's rare to see shrine maidens, and their headdresses were beautiful. People involved in related industries, such as fishing or business, might find the visit more meaningful.
Miho Shrine | Review by Koko
Other Reviews by Koko
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Yushien Garden
Located on Daikon Island in Nakaumi, Shimane Prefecture, Yushien is a stunning circuit-style Japanese garden and coveted spot to catch peonies and Korean ginseng cultivation. Spanning approximately 40,000 square meters, the garden features landscapes inspired by the Izumo region, including an artificial hill resembling Mount Daisen and a waterfall reminiscent of the famous scenic spot Oni no Shitaburui. Lose yourself on a scenic stroll through nature that beams all year around.
Before the trip, I hadn't planned on visiting Yushien Garden because it was the off-season, but my family wanted to see the red spider lilies, so we added it to our itinerary, and I unexpectedly really liked it. For 2026, the official website said the special red spider lily display would run from 9/18-23, and I saw a Google Maps review saying the flowers still looked good on 9/23. We took the bus from Matsue on 9/24 (transit cards are accepted). There weren't many people, and only three of us got off at Yushien Garden. Admission can be paid with PayPay, and the staff thoughtfully gave us a Chinese brochure.
Although we had already visited the crowded Adachi Museum of Art, known as Japan's No. 1 garden, Yushien Garden was very pleasant to walk around because there weren't many people. The pines, peonies, and red spider lilies all looked like paintings. It's perfect for people who enjoy quietly taking in the scenery. There was also a Kobitos scavenger hunt going on, which was very cute.
The shop after the indoor peony area had tasteful items that were a great value, with more selection than the shop at the outer entrance. The view from the teahouse at the end was beautiful.
Off-season admission to Yushien Garden is JPY 1,000 for adults. It's ideal for travelers who enjoy peace and quiet, and you can leisurely see everything in about two hours. For the return trip, we took the bus back to Matsue from where we had gotten off. I hope to visit again when the peony pond display is in full bloom.
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