Useful Information Living in Shimane Prefecture for Foreigners

Shimane Prefecture(島根県) is located in the northern part of the Chugoku region. Shimane is home to many cultural assets, including the national treasure Izumo Taisha and Matsue Castle. It offers a tranquil lifestyle rich in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of city centers.
This article introduces Shimane Prefecture's features and areas with many foreign residents for those interested in living there.

Features of Shimane Prefecture

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National Treasures and World Heritage Sites

Shimane has several national treasures and world heritage sites:

• Izumo Taisha (National Treasure): One of Japan's most important Shinto shrines. It is said that all the gods of Japan gather here in October. Known for its deity of matchmaking.
• Matsue Castle (National Treasure): Built in 1611, it features a beautiful main tower and garden.
• Kamosu Shrine (National Treasure): One of the ancient shrines with a distinct architectural style.
• Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine (World Heritage Site): Flourished as one of the world's largest silver mines from the 16th to 17th centuries.

Shimane's abundance of cultural assets is due to its historical significance as an important region in ancient Japan, especially the Izumo area, which is rich in Japanese myths and legends.
 
出典：島根県の文化財、石見銀山世界遺産センター

Matsue: The Prefecture's Capital

Image：Map-It

Matsue City(松江市) has the largest population in Shimane, with about 200,000 residents. As of 2020, there were 1,058 foreign residents in Matsue, an increase of about 500 from the previous survey in 2015. By 2024, the number of foreigners living in Shimane increased to about 9,500, a ninefold increase in two years.
Matsue features Lake Shinji, a large and beautiful lake that offers serene scenery. The city experiences frequent snowfall from December to February, making it an attractive place for those who enjoy winter.
 
出典：島根県「令和2年国勢調査人口等基本集計」

Izumo: The City with the Most Foreign Residents

Izumo City(出雲市) has the highest number of foreign residents in Shimane. According to Izumo City's report, 75% of foreign residents have residence statuses based on status or position, such as Permanent Resident, which is higher than the national average of 46%. The majority are from Brazil, with a growing number from Southeast Asia.

Izumo has a long history of foreign residents and offers various supports, including job support through publications and job fairs for foreign residents. Japanese language support in elementary schools is also available, making it a comfortable place for families.

出典：島根県「1 【国籍・地域別】 外国人住民人口 」、出雲市「第3期 出雲市多文化共生推進プラン」

Access from Outside the Prefecture

Traveling to Shimane from Tokyo typically involves flying.
Haneda Airport to Izumo Enmusubi Airport: About 1 hour and 20 minutes
Itami Airport (Osaka) to Izumo Enmusubi Airport: 50 minutes
Fukuoka Airport to Izumo Enmusubi Airport: 1 hour
The "Sunrise Izumo" sleeper train also runs between Tokyo and Shimane. Departing Tokyo around 10 PM, it arrives at Izumo Station in Shimane the next morning around 10 AM. It is the only regularly running sleeper train in Japan and is quite popular.

For more information: Sunrise Seto & Izumo: JR Odekake Net

Cities with Many Foreign Residents in Shimane

As of January 2024, Shimane Prefecture has 9,585 foreign residents. About 4,400 live in Izumo City, and about 1,900 live in Matsue City. Nearly two-thirds of all foreigners living in Shimane reside in these two cities.
The majority of foreign residents in Matsue and Izumo are from Brazil, followed by the Philippines, Vietnam, and China. Living in a city with many people from the same country can provide a sense of community and support.

出典：島根県「1 【国籍・地域別】 外国人住民人口 」

Tips for Choosing a Place to Live

• Talk to Current Residents: Consult people currently living in Shimane for advice on foreigner-friendly areas and useful information.
• Choose a Convenient Location: Ensure the location is easily accessible to your workplace and has nearby essential stores and hospitals.
• Balance Salary and Rent: Confirm that your salary covers rent and living expenses. Some companies provide dormitories or rent subsidies, which can help save on living costs.

Shimane experiences frequent snowfall from December to February, so consider this when planning for commuting, as cycling may not be feasible.

Conclusion

As of January 2024, Shimane Prefecture has 9,585 foreign residents. Although the number of foreigners is smaller compared to major cities like Tokyo or Osaka, it is steadily increasing. Shimane is ideal for those who prefer a serene and nature-rich environment over bustling urban areas.

JOB JOURNEY offers job listings in the Chugoku region, including Shimane. Check them out if you are considering moving to or finding a new job in Shimane.