Jilin province and Shimane prefecture established a friendly relationship on October 15, 2018.

Shimane, a prefecture of Japan, stretches along the northern coast of the Chūgoku region of the main Honshu Island. Sparsely populated, the prefecture has stayed relatively unchanged over the years.

Matsue is the capital and largest city of Shimane. Its other major cities including Izumo, Hamada, and Masuda. The prefecture is bounded by the Sea of Japan coastline to the north, where two-thirds of the population lives, and the Chūgoku Mountains to the south.

There are many mountains in the south, forming a long and thin terrain from northeast to southwest with few plains, and the mountains in the west extend to the coastline. The natural scenery is beautiful, and there are four distinct seasons.

Shimane is home to pristine island beaches, an important former silver mine and one of Japan's holiest shrines.

Framed by mountains, Shimane's main draws include Izumo Taisha Shrine -- one of the oldest and holiest Shinto shrines -- Matsue Castle and its original keep, the World Heritage Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, Iwami Kagura folk dancing and the castle towns of Tsuwano and Masuda. Just off the coast lie the Oki Islands, a favorite haunt of outdoor enthusiasts. The clear water is perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing and kayaking.