Shimane Prefecture

Shimane

Matsue Castle surrounded by cherry trees in full bloom. (© Pixta)

Shijimi clams are said to be good to eat as a cure for a hangover. (© Pixta)

Shimanekko, the character for Shimane Prefecture, melds the prefecture’s name with neko, or “cat.” In a reference to the area’s importance in Shintō, the mascot’s hat evokes shrine architecture, and it wears a shimenawa, or sacred rope, around its neck. (© Jiji)