Matsue is the capital city of Shimane Prefecture and is home to one of the twelve original castles in Japan.
Built in 1611, the Matsue Castle has withstood fires,
earthquakes, and anti-feudal battles through its years. It
stands as one of only a dozen original standing castles in
Japan, built with thick black walls as a fortress for battle.
Historic samurai armor, swords, and helmets are
displayed inside the castle. Visitors can experience an
extensive view of the city from the top floor of the castle
tower, as many samurai did 400 years ago. The castle is
beautifully preserved, surrounded by forests, shrines, and
temples.
The castle grounds are recognized for its tranquil
atmosphere, and is among one of the best cherry
blossom viewing spots. It is suggested to visit here,
Matsue Jozan Park, during spring to admire its cherry
trees, camellias, azaleas, and Japanese apricot trees.
Autumn leaves in November are quite a sight as well.
While roaming the castle grounds, you may bump into an
occasional ninja or samurai, which makes for an amusing
photo opportunity. Visitors can also enjoy a ride on a
sightseeing boat around the castle’s moats, which depart
every 15-20 minutes from numerous castle departure
points.
Chugoku | Shimane | Matsue
Matsue Castle
The Matsue Castle is renowned for being one of the twelve original standing castles in Japan, and for its elegant black exterior.
Chugoku | Shimane | Matsue
Adachi Museum of Art
Adachi Museum of Art is located in the city of Yasugi and the Zen gardens in the museum have won annually for being one of the best Japanese gardens in the country.
Chugoku | Shimane | Matsue
Lake Shinji
Lake Shinji is situated in the northeast of Shimane, surrounded by the Shimane-hanto Peninsula on the north, the Izumo Plain on the west and the Matsue Plain on the east.
Chugoku | Shimane | Matsue
Tamatsukuri Onsen
Tamatsukuri Onsen, known as “the baths of the gods”, is one of the oldest hot springs in Japan. It is renowned for its rejuvenating properties found in the water.
Chugoku | Shimane | Matsue
Shinjiko Onsen
The Matsue Shinjiko Onsen is a hot springs resort for Lake Shinji and has a free footbath (ashiyu) at the station.
Chugoku | Shimane | Matsue
Horikawa Moat Boat Cruise
The Horikawa Sightseeing Boat trip takes you along the many moats and canals that flow through the city’s narrow streets.
Chugoku | Shimane | Matsue
Matsue Samurai District
Historic buildings, former samurai residences, traditional Japanese style tea houses, and more can be found in the Matsue Samurai District.
