Shimane Prefecture is often called the “Land of Myths,” symbolized by the grand Izumo Taisha Shrine. Facing the Sea of Japan and backed by the Chūgoku Mountains, it is a place where history and rich natural landscapes blend into daily life. From the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine to soothing hot springs, Shimane offers both tradition and tranquility.
With a population of about 640,000, Shimane is the second least populated prefecture in Japan. Yet, about 1.6% of its residents are foreign nationals — a higher ratio than Hokkaido (1.2%). This reflects a growing need and openness for new talent in the region.
Shimane Prefectural Government: https://www.pref.shimane.lg.jp/
City of Matsue: https://www.city.matsue.lg.jp/index.html
1) Key Industries and Unique Companies
Shimane is a region where tradition and innovation coexist. Its foundry industry is among the strongest in Japan, ranking third nationwide in pig iron casting. At the same time, Shimane has become known as the “Home of Ruby” — the programming language created by Yukihiro Matsumoto, who is based in Matsue. Agriculture, livestock, and fisheries also remain vital, enriching the prefecture’s economy with high-quality local products.
- Agriculture: Known for premium rice brands such as Nitamai and Tsuyahime. Shimane Wagyu beef is highly regarded across Japan, and Izumo soba is considered one of Japan’s three great soba noodles.
- Fisheries: Shimane ranks among the top in Japan for horse mackerel and leads the nation in eel catches. Lake Shinji’s clams (shijimi) are a famous delicacy, accounting for about 40% of the national supply.
- Tourism: From the sacred Izumo Taisha to the World Heritage-listed Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, and the picturesque town of Tsuwano, tourism is a major industry. Hot spring resorts such as Tamatsukuri Onsen are especially popular.
- Traditional crafts: Sekishu Washi, a handmade paper with a 1,300-year history, is designated as a National Traditional Craft and loved by artists worldwide.
- Unique companies: Nakamura Brace, a prosthetics and orthotics maker based in the small city of Ōda (population ~10,000), exports globally while staying rooted locally.
- IT: Matsue promotes the “Ruby City MATSUE Project,” attracting engineers and startups from around the world.
Nitamai: https://www.nitamai.com/
Shimane Wagyu: https://shimanewagyu.com/
Sekishu Washi: https://sekishu.jp/
Nakamura Brace Co., Ltd.: https://www.nakamura-brace.co.jp/
2) What Kind of Lifestyle Fits You?
Shimane offers both tranquility and balance between city life and nature.
- By the sea: Life in Oki Islands, Lake Shinji, or coastal fishing towns, where seafood and tourism shape the community.
- In the mountains: A quiet lifestyle in the Chūgoku mountain region, surrounded by hot springs, farms, and traditional crafts.
- In the city: Compact urban living in Matsue or Izumo, where modern amenities and nature are never far apart.
3) Ties to Pop Culture
Shimane’s image as the “Land of Myths” is often reflected in anime, manga, and games.
- Child of Kamiari Month (2021): An anime film inspired by the Kamiarizuki festival at Izumo Taisha, gaining international attention.
- Fate series: A globally popular franchise that often draws on Izumo mythology and the legendary eight-headed serpent, Yamata no Orochi.
- Other works: Manga such as Kekkaishi and games like GOD WARS have been influenced by Shimane’s myths.
- Events: Pop culture events such as cosplay gatherings (like the 2025 Toudai FES at Hinomisaki Lighthouse) and mythology-themed stamp rallies attract both locals and international visitors.
Toudai FES Hinomisaki: https://toudai-fes-hinomisaki.com/
4) Stories of Dream Chasers
Population decline has also created opportunities for new beginnings. Across Shimane, people are turning challenges into inspiration.
- I-turn migration: A couple from Tokyo renovated an old house into a café, creating a lively gathering place for both locals and tourists.
- From trainee to leader: A young man from Vietnam who started as a technical trainee is now a full-time employee at a farming corporation, becoming a respected community leader.
- Oki Islands revitalization: A French migrant is sharing traditional fishing experiences as part of tourism, connecting local culture with international visitors.
The Multilingual Tour Guide Connecting France and Japan: https://visit-okiislands.e-oki.net/features/9077/
5) Foreign Residents at Work
As of June 2024, about 10,000 foreign residents live in Shimane (1.6% of the population). Many come from Brazil, Vietnam, the Philippines, and China.
- Tourism: Working at inns and as guides around Izumo Taisha and Iwami Ginzan, making use of language skills.
- Agriculture & Fisheries: Former technical trainees from Vietnam and China are increasingly being hired as full-time workers, anchoring local communities.
- IT: Engineers from India and Southeast Asia join Matsue’s growing IT sector, often attracted by Ruby-related projects.
- Healthcare & Welfare: From global companies like Nakamura Brace to hospitals and care facilities, foreign workers are essential contributors.
In Shimane, foreign residents are not just guests — they are vital partners in sustaining and revitalizing the region.
It is a place where history and quiet living meet opportunity and global connection.
In the silence of Shimane, you may just find your own future.
