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Note: The opinions and views expressed in this user report are those of the individual author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of japan-guide.com.

November 15, 2013 - Off the beaten path- Western Japan

Hiroshima.
Since google is already flooded with pictures of Miyajima, here is a picture of the Genbakuen musuem. It is in central Hiroshima and you can cycle here from Hiroshima Castle.

The clock at the Peace Park is under construction. Opposite this is the Peace Bell.

The stuff Tokyu Hands sells nowadays... LIFE ARMOUR??! OMG!
Another interesting thing to see in Hiroshima is Mitakidera, a temple with nice autumn views, it is not listed on many travel guides but it is nice to stroll (hike) about. Take from JR Hiroshima a local train to Mitaki Station and do a walk up the slope! Simple. Google Map if lost.

Afternoon was spent taking the Yakumo from Okayama to Matsue. Theres some autumn colors as the train goes past mountains. The photo below doesn't show much colour but that is because I wanted to showcase those weird stacks of sand and the stream.
All in all, compared with the other JR west North-South Limited Express train; the ride from Kyoto to Amanohashidate is more pleasant with views of Mount Daisen and lakes (but it is also far more expensive).

Yakumo does go straight to Izumo, but due to no cheap lodging, the night was spend at the castle city, Matsue. Known for the foreigner who stayed there and Lake Shinji.

The reason I went to Izumo is for Izuno Taishs's festiva; Kannazuki. Trust me, information on this festival is hard to come by. The date changes annually, as it uses the lunar calendar, or maybe something else altogether cause I could only find the festival date a month before.
I didn't know what time it started or ended and what is happening on each day. All I knew, was that this was to celebrate all the Shinto Kamis going to Izumo for their annual meet. Coincidentally, it was also children's day (San Go Shi)), just don't ask me whether the parents brought their kimono clad kids to the shrine when the Kamis are busy drinking their nihonshu.

Regardless, I was far too ambitious and ended up going to a festival that was closed for the day. 5 pm it closes. Opens at 11 am the next day. Seriously short hours.
Well, the night has its charms and sadly my camera couldn't do this place justice. Rows of lanterns along a pine tree path. Past large statues and monuments. I prefer this to Ise.

Manhole showing a dragon. Some legend about some guy who killed the headed dragon. Probably became a prince. Think there's a dagger somewhere in the story. Being one of the three artifacts of the imperial family??
Matsue has a nice manhole too! And some graffiti depicting this 9 headed dragons Vs farmer-prince dude.

After Izumo Taisha is time for Soba!
As to why Izumo is known for Soba? No idea. I didn't really like it. Thick and chewy.

Do be careful though, Izumo town closes shop way early. Try to have dinner before 6pm.

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List of Posts:
2014/12/28 - Kyushu in winter
2013/11/15 - Off the beaten path- Western Japan
2013/05/21 - Getting lost on the outskirts of Kyoto
2013/05/20 - Uncommon but fun places
2013/05/19 - Mifune Matsuri and off the road temples
2013/05/18 - Off the beaten path