This is my first time visiting the western coast of Japan. After an early morning departure from Okayama, it only took 3 hours to reach Izumoshi to begin my hectic day.
The Izumo-Taisha Grand Shrine is about 20 minutes from the train station. The current complex was rebuilt in the 17-8th centuries and attracts visitors for its grand straw festoon and architectural style.
The Ichibata Electric Railway takes a scenic route towards Matsue in about an hour.
Matsue Castle was originally built in 1611. To encourage foreign visitors, show your passport and get half off admission all over town. The castle isn't hard to access with a fairly easy climb.