Introducing the top 10 unmissable local gourmet dishes from the Shimane region.

Introducing the top 10 unmissable local gourmet dishes from the Shimane region.
When visiting the Shimane region, be sure to enjoy the authentic local gourmet dishes at their best.
Table of Contents

Imoni
A heartwarming autumn tradition, perfect for gatherings and hospitality
In Tsuwano, as autumn approaches, you’ll often hear locals say, "It’s the season for Imoni." Imoni is a delightful stew made primarily with roasted sea bream and taro, ingredients that perfectly em...

Izumo Soba
Richly flavored Izumo-style buckwheat noodles made with whole-grain milling
Izumo Soba (出雲そば, Izumo soba) is a cherished culinary tradition of the Izumo region, easily recognizable by its distinct dark appearance compared to typical soba noodles. When producing buck...

Ago Noyaki
Named "Ago" for being so delicious, it'll make your jaw drop
Ago Noyaki (あご野焼き, Ago Noyaki) derives its name "Noyaki" from the practice of grilling it outdoors in the old days to avoid smoke and heat. The name is said to have been given by Matsudaira Fu...

Shijimi Miso Soup
A proud traditional dish of Shimane, featuring one of Lake Shinji’s Seven Delicacies!
Shijimi Miso Soup (しじみ汁, Shijimi jiru) is a classic dish made with shijimi clams, one of the famous "Seven Delicacies of Lake Shinji." This nourishing soup is a staple in local inns and homes t...

Grilled Mackerel of Unnan
A hidden gem of San'in—Unnan's "Grilled Mackerel," a flavorful tradition nurtured by history and nature
Grilled Mackerel of Unnan (雲南の焼きサバ, Unnan no Yaki Saba) is a beloved local dish from Unnan City in Shimane Prefecture. Remarkably, this inland area has developed a unique culinary culture ce...

Maitake Mushroom Rice
A traditional dish infused with the rich flavor and aroma of Maitake mushrooms
Maitake Mushroom Rice (舞茸ごはん, Maitake gohan) is a comforting rice dish made by cooking locally grown Maitake mushrooms from Iinan Town along with carrots and other fresh vegetables. The aro...

Izumo Zenzai
A divine sweet born in Izumo, where gods gather
Izumo Zenzai (出雲ぜんざい) is said to originate from Izumo, a sacred place where, according to legend, all the gods of Japan gather during the 10th month of the lunar calendar, known as the "Month...

Shijimi Tsukudani (Seasoned Freshwater Clams)
Authentic Tsukudani made with Yamato Shijimi clams from Lake Shinji
Lake Shinji, a brackish-water lake, provides the ideal environment for raising shijimi clams. It boasts the highest shijimi harvest in Japan, and its "Shinji-ko Shijimi" is a nationally recognized ...

Kashiwa Mochi
A traditional treat from Shimane, wrapped in aromatic leaves of Smilax
Kashiwa Mochi (かしわ餅, Kashiwa Mochi) is a traditional Japanese sweet cherished across Shimane Prefecture. It is often made during the seasonal celebration of Boys’ Festival (Tango no Sekku) and ...

Sumoji
A traditional taste of Shimane, brimming with the bounty of the sea and the smoky aroma of grilled mackerel
Sumoji (すもじ) is a beloved traditional dish from Shimane Prefecture that celebrates the region’s abundance of mackerel, nurtured in the rough waves of the Sea of Japan. Shimane is renowned for it...