Japan: The Best Spots to Photograph in the San-in Region
Updated: Mar 6
The San-in region, located on the coast of the Sea of Japan, is a land of contrasts and natural wonders, where time appears to have stood still. Rich in culture and history, this region is renowned for its coastal landscapes, traditional gardens, temples, and ancient shrines, making it a prime photography destination in Japan.
San-in is indeed an extraordinary playground for photographers looking to explore the lesser-known aspects of Japan. Here, one experiences moments of tranquility far from the hustle and bustle of the metropolises, and a deep immersion in Japanese culture through its festivals, arts, and traditional crafts.
What is The San-in Region
Located on the northwest coast of Honshu Island, facing the Sea of Japan north of Hiroshima, the San-in region literally means "In the shadow of the mountains." This region is little known to foreign tourists due to its unique geographical location.
The isolation from the rest of the country, imposed by the Shugoku mountain range, separates it from the cities of Kobe, Okayama, and Hiroshima. Only in recent years has the San-in region opened up to tourism, with a few foreigners venturing there to discover other aspects of Japanese culture.
This isolation has also allowed it to maintain the authenticity of its wilder character and to preserve its exceptional coastlines from rampant urbanization. The San-in region spans the prefectures of Shimane and Tottori. Along its coasts, it offers fascinating geological features such as the Uradome Coast, its lakes, and perfectly preserved landscapes.
San-in is undoubtedly an exceptional region for all photographers in search of wild and unique places. Having been overlooked by national and international tourism for decades, there are relatively few photographs of the region.
The city of Matsue is one of the largest cities in the region after Tottori. Very interesting, it is a must-visit for anyone touring the area. Its castle, history, streets, and shops are all reasons to consider staying there.
Therefore, plan to spend a few days in the region as inspiration for your photographs is guaranteed. It also has one of the most beautiful gardens I have seen and photographed in all of Japan, the Yushi-en Garden.
Moreover, as a foreigner, you can benefit from a substantial 50% discount on the entry prices to many sites in the Shimane prefecture. This prefecture has been ranked for years as the least visited tourist destination by foreigners due to its remoteness. This is quite regrettable as there are many sensational discoveries and places to see.
Everything is being done by the local government and merchants to attract a new clientele of tourists. From then on, you will not find a warmer welcome anywhere else in Japan.
Below is a personal list of the best spots to photograph in the San-in region.
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How to get to the San-in region
If you are departing from Tokyo, you can take a direct flight to the cities of Tottori or Matsue. Otherwise, the train is your best option, as no other national airport serves these cities.
The easiest way to reach Tottori is by taking the Super Hakuto Express train from Kyoto or Osaka. The journey takes about 3 hours from Kyoto. A train ticket to Tottori from Kyoto costs around 8,000¥ (without reservation). You can even enjoy free Wi-Fi onboard.
Once you arrive in Tottori, it is essential to rent a vehicle. It is impossible to explore the region without a car. The coasts and photographic spots are not served by public transport, except for the Sanin Main Line train, which serves the villages but is of no use for visiting the coasts.
Tottori is located in the upper part of the region of interest for photography. You will need to choose your first destination, either heading north towards the Uradome Coast or south towards Matsue. I recommend starting with the Uradome Coast. It is certainly the place that offers the most geological features to photograph.
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Tottori Prefecture
1. Uradome Coast
Located in Iwami, about 20 km from the city of Tottori (30 minutes by car), the Uradome Coast stretches over a distance of 15 km from Kugami Misaki Observatory to Shichiyama. It is part of the San-in Kaigan UNESCO Global Geopark, along with the Tottori Sand Dunes (see below).
The Uradome Coast is particularly known for its spectacular rock formations, picturesque beaches, and crystal-clear waters. It is recognized for its natural beauty and unique geological landscapes.
The Uradome Coast is also famous for its white sand beaches and panoramic viewpoints. It attracts photographers and nature lovers looking to capture its quiet and timeless beauty. In addition to its natural beauty, the region is rich in culture and history, with traditional fishing villages and historical sites nearby.
This magnificent wild coast has become an important tourist spot for the region in recent years. And for good reason, its significant rock formations and ancient vegetation are fascinating in photography. Read my article on the Uradome Coast.
2. The Tottori Sand Dunes
Another astonishing geological feature of the region, this massive sand dune covers an area of 30 km² and stretches over more than 15 km along the coast. The height of the dune reaches 50 meters. It is not uncommon for it to be covered in snow in winter, which makes it even more mysterious. They attract more than 2 million visitors each year.
Certainly, you will not be alone, and landscape photography can be quite challenging. However, depending on the season and the weather, you might be lucky enough to not encounter too many tourists. Under these conditions, you can fully enjoy the spectacle, feeling as if you are wandering on another planet.
The Tottori Dune is located about 20 minutes by car from the city center. There, you can engage in sports activities (mountain biking, paragliding, sandboarding, etc.), take a camel ride, or take a chairlift to the Sakyu Observatory. A geological feature worth visiting even if it may not be the spot where you'll take the best photos of your trip.
© O. Robert
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3. Lake Togo
This small lake does not offer many interesting subjects for photography. However, you can see some fishing structures preserved by the local government as a testament to the past. Called Tanajibu, these structures are often found along the shores of lakes or coasts, such as on the Ariake Sea in Kyushu. Read my article on the Tanajibu.
These sheds flanked by retractable fishing nets are perfect subjects for long exposures. Attached to the shore, they do not offer much clearance, and the context of the shores is very urbanized. The success of your images will therefore depend on the weather. A rainy or foggy day would be ideal.
Shimane Prefecture
4. Matsue Castle
The city of Matsue is located 120 km from Tottori (about 1h50 by car). This very beautiful small city is worth stopping for one or two days. It is situated between Lake Nakaumi and Lake Shinji.
Matsue Castle is another local marvel. Its architecture, proportions, and position in the landscape make it a prime subject for photography. Illuminated at night, it appears particularly elegant amid very dark vegetation.
Matsue Castle is also known as "Plover Castle" (Chidori-jo) or "Pine Castle". It is one of the twelve Japanese castles whose main tower (Tenshu) has survived from the Edo period to the present day, making it a valuable cultural and historical heritage.
The Castle was constructed between 1607 and 1611 under the order of Horio Yoshiharu, the first daimyo (feudal lord) of the Matsue domain. After Yoshiharu's death, his son Tadaharu succeeded him, but the Horio lineage died out shortly after. The castle then came under the control of various daimyos throughout history, including the Kyogoku and Matsudaira families, a branch of the Tokugawa clan.
Several festivals or events take place in the castle grounds throughout the year. Here are the ones that have impressed me the most.
The Horan-enya Festival (every 10 years): This is one of the three largest boat festivals in Japan, taking place in Matsue. Although it does not occur annually, it is a spectacular event not to be missed if your visit coincides.
The Matsue Suitoro Festival (September): During this festival, lanterns and artistic lighting are placed around the castle and on the moats, creating a magical atmosphere. It's a unique opportunity to see the castle illuminated at night.
The Matsue Shimane Festival (October): This festival celebrates local culture with parades, music, and traditional dances. It's an excellent opportunity to experience local traditions.
During the month of October, the gardens of Matsue Castle host a lantern festival. This provides a very pleasant evening outdoors, admiring the magical light emitted from a multitude of lanterns painted by children. And for tennis enthusiasts, Matsue is also the hometown of player Kei Nishikori.
© O. Robert
5. Meimei-an Tea House
Located atop a small hill in the city of Matsue, this tea house is another gem of your journey through the San-in region. A true haven of peace, it also has a remarkable contemplative garden that you can admire from the inside while enjoying a Matcha tea seated on traditional tatamis.
The Meimei-an Tea House is a jewel of traditional Japanese art and an emblematic place of the tea ceremony culture. This tea house, also known as the "Clear Lotus Salon," embodies the elegance and serenity that have characterized Japanese culture for centuries. Read my article on Meimei-an Tea House.
© O. Robert
6. Lake Nakaumi
This small lake offers few subjects for photography. Nonetheless, I have produced one of my most successful series here, in terms of exhibitions and competitions. Along the shores of Lake Nakaumi, it is possible to spot unconventional fishing structures made of nets stretched over metal poles.
Depending on the season, you may be able to take advantage of conditions that avoid the urbanized background. These fishing nets have very interesting shapes and a unique presence on the water's surface that will undoubtedly appeal to photographers in search of minimalism.
Apart from these elements, you can easily continue your journey towards the island in the middle of Lake Nakaumi and discover a jewel of garden art in Japan, the Yushi-en Garden.
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7. Yushi-en Garden
There are rare moments in a photographer's life that mark his mind forever. The shock of an encounter, a discovery, or an unexpected moment is often the opportunity to take their most beautiful shots or at least to keep an indelible memory of it.
This was the case for me when I discovered this garden for the first time. The Yushi-en Garden remains certainly one of the most beautiful gardens I have seen in Japan.
The Yushi-en Garden is located on Daikonshima Island, in Lake Nakaumi, near Matsue in Shimane Prefecture, Japan. This garden is particularly known for its cultivation of peonies. Indeed, Daikonshima is renowned for its sulfur-rich soil, which is ideal for growing peonies, and Yushi-en features a wide variety of these flowers.
© O. Robert
The garden was inaugurated in 1975. It covers approximately 10,000 m² and was designed to represent the typical landscapes of the San-in region.
Yushi-en is a "kaiyu-shiki" style garden, a model of strolling garden where visitors follow a winding path around a central pond. This design aims to offer a series of picturesque views, changing with each step. One of the most notable features of Yushi-en is its collection of stones, meticulously selected and arranged. These stones all come from the San-in region and are renowned for their unique beauty.
The Garden is located 16 km from the center of Matsue (25 minutes by car). Read my article on Yushi-en Garden.
© O. Robert
8. Lake Shinji
Lake Shinji is probably the most interesting lake in the San-in region. It is located not far from Matsue, and you can walk there if you choose to stay in one of the many hotels situated along its shores.
The uniqueness of Lake Shinji lies in its shrine island located not far from the shore, allowing for hassle-free photography from any angle you desire. Its stone Torii stands out clearly against the pine forest backdrop, making it an ideal subject for photography.
The island is accessible by boat. Several shuttles make daily round trips. Although its location is original, the island is mainly of interest when viewed from the shore. It is much less interesting to visit. Several festivals and a few religious ceremonies are held there each year. Read my article dedicated to Lake Shinji.
9. Izumo Shrine
The Izumo Shrine (Izumo Taisha in Japanese) is one of the oldest and most important Shinto shrines in Japan after the Ise Jingu Shrine. It is located in the city of Izumo, in Shimane Prefecture. This shrine is dedicated to Ōkuninushi (great master of the land), a central deity in the Shinto pantheon who is renowned as the god of marriage and happiness.
The history of Izumo Shrine dates back to ancient times, and it is frequently mentioned in classic Japanese texts such as the "Kojiki" and the "Nihon Shoki," which are the oldest historical documents of Japan, compiled in the early 8th century. These texts recount the myths of Japan's creation and the origin of the Shinto gods, including the story of Ōkuninushi.
According to legend, Ōkuninushi ceded Japan to the lineage of the sun gods, to which Amaterasu, the sun goddess, belongs, in exchange for the construction of Izumo Taisha.
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The current structure of the shrine mainly dates from the 18th century, although the foundation of the site goes back more than 1,500 years. The shrine is famous for its unique architecture, especially for its large torii (traditional Shinto gate) and the honden (main building), which was once considered the largest wooden building in Japan before the construction of the Great Buddha of Nara.
© O. Robert
If you visit in October, you can attend many festivals within the shrine precinct or directly on the nearby beach. Indeed, October is the month when, according to Shinto legend, the Kami (Shinto deities) leave all the shrines in the country to gather at Izumo. This period is called Kamiarisai (the festival of the Kami). Read my article on to the Kami, Spirits of Nature and Ancestors.
This festival is an opportunity for residents from all over the region to flock to this shrine en masse. It's an atmosphere to be experienced... The shrine offers beautiful photographic subjects, and its extraordinary dimensions merit a visit.
© O. Robert
10. Benten Island
Benten Rock, also known as Benten-iwa, is a sacred rock located on Inasa Beach, in immediate proximity to the Izumo Taisha Shrine, in Shimane Prefecture. This beach, with its iconic rock, plays an important role in the rituals and beliefs associated with the Izumo Shrine.
According to Shinto tradition, Benten Island-rock is associated with Benzaiten (or Benten), one of the Seven Gods of Fortune. Benzaiten is the goddess of music, wisdom, art, and beauty, as well as water and the sea. She originates from the Hindu goddess Saraswati and was incorporated into the Japanese Buddhist and Shinto pantheon.
Being located on a beach, it becomes an interesting island to photograph only at high tide. Depending on the time of day you visit, you may not be able to photograph it as you hope, but its significance to the Izumo Shrine makes it worth the detour. This was the case for me each time, and it was impossible for me to wait for the high tide.
© O. Robert
11. Ichibataji Temple
This Zen temple of the Rinzai school of Buddhism is located away from the city of Izumo in the neighboring hills, about 23 km from the center of Izumo city. To get there, a vehicle is absolutely necessary. The journey takes 40 minutes.
This spectacular temple was built in 894. Although it has been renovated several times, its original wooden structures are beautifully preserved. The complex is very harmonious, and the view of the Sea of Japan is splendid.
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In the courtyard of this temple, you will find a shelter housing some 84,000 small statues identical to the effigy of Buddha. As in many Japanese temples (especially of the Shingon school), these statues are offered by practitioners during their prayers in the hope of curing health problems such as eye diseases, in the case of Ichibataji Temple.
To reach this temple in a traditional manner and earn your photographs, you will need to climb some 1,300 steps. Alternatively, you can bypass this tradition by accessing a parking area by car. This will spare you the climb on foot but deprive you of a unique experience.
12. Adachi Museum of Art
This private museum, created by Mr. Adachi Zenko in 1970, gathers an exceptional collection of paintings by Yokoyama Taikan and various Japanese artworks. A passionate gardener and avid art collector, Adachi Zenko aimed to create this center and garden as a tribute to his home village by contributing to the cultural development of Shimane Prefecture.
As its name suggests, this museum is primarily a cultural establishment dedicated to promoting and celebrating the arts. Since its opening, the museum has gained a reputation for its eclectic collections and engaging exhibitions. Located in a building with interesting architecture, the museum offers a setting that balances modernity and tradition.
Interestingly, it is particularly for its splendid landscaped garden that the Adachi Museum of Art has become famous worldwide. Read my article on the Adachi Museum and its gardens.
© O. Robert
Yamaguchi Prefecture
From here, and geographically speaking, we are leaving the San-in region. The Japanese agree that this region only includes the prefectures of Tottori and Shimane. Indeed, the Yamaguchi Prefecture extends to the Seto Sea. Therefore, technically, this prefecture is no longer "in the shadow of the mountains" and cannot claim the name of San-in.
However, there are no official administrative boundaries for the San-in region. And as you will likely visit Yamaguchi Prefecture during your trip to Tottori and Shimane prefectures, I am including it in this article.
13. Omi Island
Omi Island is located off the city of Nagato, not far from Lake Shinji, about 4h30 by car (250 km) from Matsue. Its coast on the northern facade is full of epic rock formations that can be observed up close and sometimes from a distance by following a steep walking path.
During this walk, you benefit from breathtaking views of these rocks emerging from the surface of the sea. And if you are interested in Japanese politics, the city of Nagato is also the hometown of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. You will find many references there.
14. Motonosumi Shrine
Famous for its multitude of Torii gates that stand out in the landscape from afar, this small shrine is interesting more for its location than for its architectural significance. The corridor of Torii gates is reminiscent of the one at Fushimi-Inari Shrine in Kyoto. Read my article on Torii Gates, Symbols of Purity and Spiritual Transition.
According to CNN, Motonosumi Shrine would be one of the 30 most beautiful landscapes in Japan. I would have some reservations about this ranking, but you can judge for yourself.
© O. Robert
Regardless, this spot deserves a photographic stop because these Torii paths are quite rare. It took 10 years to erect the 123 Torii gates of this shrine. Motonosumi is located a few kilometers from Nagato. Plan for about 60 minutes by car from the Mine interchange on the Chugoku Expressway.
© O. Robert
15. The City of Hagi
Hagi is located 225 km from the city of Matsue (approx. 4 hours by car). This very beautiful city has managed to preserve its historical character and has a historic center where strolls can transport you back in time. During your visit to the region for temple tours like Daisho-in and Tokoji, do not hesitate to stop for a while in Hagi.
You will discover perfectly preserved traditional buildings, interesting shops, but also some remarkable gardens where you can take your time to photograph them, even with a tripod.
Hagi is known for its significant role in Japanese history, particularly during the Edo period (1603-1868) and as an important center for the movement to overthrow the Tokugawa shogunate, leading to the Meiji Restoration in 1868. This period marked the end of the feudal system in Japan and the beginning of its modernization.
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The city of Hagi is also famous for its ceramics, known as Hagi-yaki, appreciated for its subtle texture and simple shapes, reflecting the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi, finding beauty in imperfection and simplicity.
The historical setting of Hagi, with its preserved buildings, traditional streets, and former samurai and merchant quarters, offers a fascinating glimpse into life in Japan during the Edo period. Its remarkably preserved sites, such as its castle, samurai residences, temples, and shrines, contribute to its historical ambiance and tourist appeal.
© O. Robert
Its castle was built in 1604 by Terumoto Mori. The city of Hagi has always been spared from earthquakes and clan wars. Thus, its alleys and buildings have been passed down from generation to generation to the point of becoming today of national interest.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it bears the title of "Outstanding Meiji Industrial Revolution Site." Hagi is also famous for its cliffs with black and gray striped reliefs (Hagi Hornfels) dating back 14 million years.
© O. Robert
16. Daisho-in Temple
Just like Tokoji Temple (see below), Daisho-in Temple is located in the city of Hagi. This magnificent complex has a garden with 600 lanterns and several spectacular Torii gates. It is actually the burial site of the Mori Clan.
Although Daisho-in is a temple, it contains a Shinto shrine, as is often the case in large temples. Thus, it is in the shrine part where the spectacular cemetery-garden is located. Hence the presence of Torii gates.
This garden contains the graves of the Samurai, his wives, his children, and his servants. These lanterns, present in impressive quantities, are perfectly aligned. The ensemble ends with 5 massive stone Torii gates located in the perspective of the lantern paths.
© O. Robert
The atmosphere of this temple and its cemetery-garden is quite heavy. The imposing presence of the constructed elements and the massiveness of the ensemble clearly evoke the power that this Clan had at the time. Moreover, the surrounding forest context adds a note of exoticism that is reminiscent of the famous Okuno-in cemetery in Koyasan. Daisho-in Temple is located less than one kilometer from Hagi Station.
© O. Robert
17. Tokoji Temple
Organized similarly to Daisho-in, Tokoji also has a funeral garden. The lanterns and stone Torii are just as spectacular as those of the former. The complex consists of 500 lanterns and 5 Torii.
Just like Daisho-in, this temple also incorporates a Shinto shrine dedicated to the cemetery-garden. From this perspective, Tokoji is in every way similar to Daisho-in.
This temple of the Chinese Zen Obaku school also belonged to the Mori Clan. The Chinese influence is present throughout this temple. The main entrance gate with three levels is a significant example. The architectural structure and the bright red color of these huge gates strangely remind one of Shinto shrines, yet there is no connection.
Of course, these two temples are not just about their gardens or cemeteries. Take the time to discover the inside of the main buildings and their magnificent Buddhist sculptures. Tokoji Temple is also located in the city of Hagi, 5 km from the station.
© O. Robert
Once again, this list of photographic sites is not exhaustive. It is the result of my experience and my many visits to the San-in region, whether for photography or other reasons.
I have always had unforgettable moments there, and the exchanges I have had with the local people have always been exceptional. The welcome that the San-in region offers has clearly made it one of my favorite destinations in the entire archipelago, and where I take my clients with the greatest pleasure.
Plan a visit to the San-in Region during your stay in Japan. You will be delighted while feeling that you have experienced another facet of the country, a bit away from the conventional tourist hotspots.
The Final Word
The San-in region, with its landscapes that seem to whisper the echoes of the past, offers fertile ground for deep reflection on the ephemeral nature of existence. Through the lens, each captured photograph becomes a tribute to the beauty of life, a frozen moment that, although fleeting, possesses an eternity in its tranquility.
The soft light that caresses the dunes of Tottori, the serene shadow of ancient shrines, and the whisper of the wind in the pines intertwine to create a visual symphony that speaks to the soul.
Photography, in this region blessed by time, becomes more than just a capture of reality. It transforms into a spiritual quest, a path towards understanding universal harmony.
Thus, the San-in region, through photography, offers us a lesson in life. That of appreciating the transience of each moment, finding serenity in simplicity, and recognizing that in the minimalism of nature lies the true essence of existence.
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