By Arigato Solo Travel
This video takes viewers on a journey aboard the Limited Express Yakumo, a train that won the Grand Prize at the 2024 Japan Railway Awards. Running along the Hakubi Line, the train offers a scenic and comfortable ride through western Japan. The Yakumo is known for its elegant design and special compartments, making it a remarkable travel experience for train enthusiasts and travelers alike. The limited express service connects Okayama with Matsue and Izumo, providing a vital link to these historic locations.
The video also delves into the fascinating legacy of Lafcadio Hearn, a Greek-Irish writer who became deeply immersed in Japanese culture after arriving in the country 135 years ago. He lived in Matsue, where he took on the Japanese name Koizumi Yakumo, and played a significant role in introducing Japanese folklore and ghost stories to the world. A visit to the former residence of Lafcadio Hearn in Matsue offers insight into his life and work. His contributions to Japanese literature and cultural heritage are being reintroduced to audiences through the upcoming NHK morning drama 'Bake Bake,' set to air in late 2025.
Additional highlights include a visit to an Inari Shrine, which ties into Hearn’s fascination with Japanese spirituality and folklore. The video explores Matsue, known as ‘the chief city of the land of the gods,’ a reference to its deep historical and cultural significance. Matsue is home to Matsue Castle, one of Japan’s few remaining original castles, and Izumo Taisha (Izumo Grand Shrine), one of the most important Shinto shrines in the country. These destinations provide a glimpse into Japan’s rich spiritual and historical fabric, much of which Hearn was drawn to in his writings.
For those interested in railway travel, Japanese history, and literature, this video offers a unique combination of all three. It showcases the stunning landscapes of western Japan, the luxurious experience of the Limited Express Yakumo, and the profound influence of Lafcadio Hearn. Matsue remains an essential destination for literature lovers and cultural explorers alike.