You know that feeling when you stumble upon a place that feels like it belongs in a storybook? That’s exactly how I felt when I first set foot in Iwami during autumn. The air was crisp, the leaves were a riot of colors, and there was this magical vibe that made me feel like I was stepping into another era. Seriously, it was like time traveling!
The Historic Charm of Tsuwano
Tsuwano, often dubbed the ‘Little Kyoto of the San’in region,’ is a charming castle town nestled on the border of Shimane and Yamaguchi prefectures. And let me tell you, it’s a place that knows how to wear autumn well. With its narrow streets lined by traditional buildings and the distant chugging of the SL Yamaguchi steam train, it felt like I was in a different world. The train runs from Shin-Yamaguchi to Tsuwano on weekends from March to November, and it’s an absolute must-do if you’re in the area!
Walking through Tsuwano, I couldn’t resist the sweet temptation of trying my hand at making ‘Genji-maki,’ a local confection. It was super fun, and I may have eaten more than I made, oops! The fall foliage here is stunning, especially around the old Hori family garden, which boasts a 300-year history. It’s a sight that will make you want to sit down and just soak it all in.
Exploring the Mystical Iwami Ginzan
Next up was the world heritage site of Iwami Ginzan, famous for its historic silver mine. Now, I won’t lie, I underestimated how much there was to see here. The walk to the Ryugenji Mabu mine shaft is lined with historical sites and quaint shops, each with a story to tell. Renting a bike here is a great way to explore, and I actually felt like a kid again, breezing through the picturesque paths.
Make sure to pop into the Gungendo store—it’s charming in that ‘forgotten time’ kind of way. And if you’re into museums, the Iwami Ginzan Museum offers fascinating insights into the area’s history. Not gonna lie, I felt pretty smart after my visit!
Savoring Fall’s Bounty
Autumn in Iwami isn’t just about the sights; it’s about flavors too. I got to indulge in fruit picking at Sky Farm, where you can eat as much as you want without a time limit. Honestly, it was the perfect way to taste the season—and I might have overdone it with the apples. The experience is ¥1,200 (around $8 USD), but it’s worth every yen just to see the joy on everyone’s faces as they sample the fresh bounty.
Art and Culture in Iwami
For those who love art, Iwami won’t disappoint. The Shimane Art and Culture Center, ‘Grand Toit,’ is a unique place with its striking roof made of Sekishu tiles. I also visited the Hamada Children’s Museum of Art, which was unexpectedly delightful. Even if you’re not a kid, it’s hard not to feel inspired there.
So, if you’re thinking about visiting Iwami, do it in autumn. It’s not just the colors and the history, but the whole atmosphere that makes it feel like a well-kept secret. If this sounds like your kind of adventure, pack your bags—I promise you won’t regret it. And hey, if you do visit, let me know what you think. I’m curious to see if it charms you as much as it did me!
