Ōnan(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Yonago Town, stay at Shimane Prefectural Natural Park Hotel, a boutique ryokan nestled near the Mount Daisen Nature Reserve. This eco-friendly retreat features traditional Japanese architecture using local wood and offers private onsen baths overlooking Lake Shinji. Guests can participate in authentic washi paper-making workshops and enjoy farm-to-table meals featuring fresh Lake Shinji carp. The hotel’s emphasis on harmony with nature makes it ideal for travelers seeking immersive cultural experiences rooted in regional heritage.

The Lake Shinji shoreline is the most serene and picturesque area in Yonago Town. Staying here grants direct access to sunrise views over the calm waters and panoramic vistas of surrounding mountains. Many guesthouses offer private verandas facing the lake, perfect for morning tea or evening stargazing. The area is also close to the Daisen Forest Trail, making it ideal for early-morning hikes. With minimal light pollution, it’s one of Japan’s best spots for astrophotography during autumn and winter.

Visitors to Yonago Town should not miss the Izumo Myth Festival, held annually near Izumo Taisha Shrine, where ancient Shinto rituals and dramatic reenactments bring Japanese mythology to life. Additionally, hands-on washi paper crafting sessions led by local artisans allow guests to create their own traditional Japanese paper. For spiritual insight, explore the centuries-old Daisen Temple, set among ancient cedars, where meditation and quiet reflection are encouraged.

Savor Lake Shinji carp dishes, especially shabu-shabu hot pot or char-grilled carp, known for its delicate flavor and tender texture. Pair it with locally brewed Shimane rice wine for a complete taste of the region. Don’t miss Izumo pottery-crafted tableware—often used in restaurants to serve Shimane-grown rice and seasonal vegetables. During autumn, try sanma sushi made from freshly caught mackerel from the nearby fishing ports.

Absolutely! Yonago Town is highly family-friendly, offering safe, green spaces and educational activities. The Daisen Nature Education Center provides interactive programs like wildlife spotting, plant identification, and birdwatching tailored for children. Nearby Lake Shinji Children’s Playground and family camping sites provide fun outdoor options. Most inns offer child-sized toiletries, games, and even guided nature scavenger hunts, ensuring a stress-free and enriching trip for all ages.

Yonago Town is easily accessible via public transit. Take a 25-minute bus ride from Izumo Station to the town center. For those driving, the Chūgoku Expressway connects smoothly to Shimane Prefectural Road, with clear signage throughout. Local rental services also offer electric bicycles, perfect for leisurely rides along the lakeside path, allowing visitors to explore rural villages and paddy fields at their own pace.

The best seasons to visit Yonago Town are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Spring brings blooming Daisen cherry blossoms, while autumn features vibrant foliage and crisp, comfortable weather—ideal for hiking. October’s Izumo Myth Festival draws large crowds; book accommodations early. Summer is warm but enjoyable for lake kayaking and night-time illuminated festivals, though humidity can be high.

Capture stunning shots at Lake Shinji Sunset Pier, where golden light reflects across the water, framed by distant mountain silhouettes. Another must-photograph site is the Daisen Temple Ancient Tree Grove, where towering cedar and ginkgo trees form a natural archway—especially breathtaking in fall. Don’t miss the Washi Paper Craft Studio’s mural wall, depicting legendary Izumo myths in vivid hand-painted designs, perfect for artistic photography.

Evenings in Yonago Town shine with unique experiences. Join a lakefront bonfire gathering, hosted by locals who share folktales and traditional songs under the stars. Some inns offer stargazing tours using telescopes, revealing the Milky Way clearly due to minimal light pollution. There’s also the Washi Lantern Walk, where handmade paper lanterns illuminate forest paths, creating a magical, dreamlike atmosphere.

Accommodations in Yonago Town range from ¥4,000 to ¥8,000 JPY per night for standard guesthouses with breakfast and onsen access. Premium design lodges like Daisen Mori No Tōri Villa cost ¥10,000 to ¥15,000 JPY, including private onsen and multi-course kaiseki dinners. Prices rise by about 20% during peak events like the festival season—reservations are strongly recommended to secure preferred rooms and amenities.