//
Prefecture capital and Core city in Chūgoku, Japan
Photo: User: (WT-shared) JamesAlexanderJack at wts wikivoyage, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Matsue (松江) is an old castle town at the heart of Izumo Province (present-day Shimane Prefecture), and with a population of approximately 207,000 is its largest city.
From the travel guide. Select a place for details, a map and what is nearby.
松江城, Matsuejo
The castle keep is one of only twelve original castles left in Japan, dating back to 1611. Inside the castle you'll find an impressive array of original artifacts from the Matsudaira clan including original armor, swords, and helmets. The top of the castle offers a great view of Matsue City and Lake Shinji.
興雲閣
A sort of colonial house with Japanese architectural elements.
塩見縄手
This old samurai residential street runs along the north east side of Matsue Castle, across the moat. Many of Matsue's musea and other historical attractions can be found in this area.
松江歴史館 Matsue Rekishikan
The Matsue History Museum offers a glimpse into the past of Matsue and the surrounding area. The museum also houses the Matsue International Tourist Information Office. The staff speaks English and can help with booking a hotel.
小泉八雲記念館 Koizumi Yakumo Kinenkan
Writer Lafcadio Hearn lived in Matsue from 1890 to 1891, and the museum was built next to his former residence. On display are many objects belonging to or related to Hearn, including his desk, his favorite quill and ink pot, manuscripts and several favorites from his large Japanese pipe collection.
小泉八雲旧居 Koizumi Yakumo Kyūkyo
The former residence of writer Lafcadio Hearn. Hearn spent many of his happiest months in Matsue. Here he wrote most of Glimpses of Unfamiliar Japan, his chief work, as well as large portions of what was to become Kwaidan.
城山稲荷神社, Jōzan Inari Jinja
An Inari "fox" shrine surrounded by hundreds of fox statuettes. This shrine was one of Irish writer Lafcadio Hearn's favorite places in Matsue. It is the starting point and ending of the three-day Horanenya festival, which is held only once every 12 years.
武家屋敷 Buke Yashiki
The residence of a former samurai housing many of his weapons and other artifacts.
島根県立美術館 Shimane Kenristu Bijutsukan
Works by artists from Shimane prefecture as well as from other parts of Japan are on display. The museum also has a nice selection of ukiyo-e woodblock prints. There are often special exhibitions featuring Japanese and international artists. The museum has a lakeside sculpture park. When you encounter the statues of a line of hopping rabbits be sure to rub the head of the foremost rabbit as it is said that this brings good luck.
月照寺 Gesshō-ji
While the temple was destroyed during the Meiji Period, the temple grounds still contain the graves of the Matsudaira clan, including the first Daimyo, who was also the grandson of Tokugawa shogunate founder Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Among Japanese sunset connoisseurs the sunsets over Lake Shinji rank as number 2 on the national list (the number 1 spot being taken by the floating torii at Miyajima).
A special sunset viewing platform (Yuuhi Spot) which has been constructed along the lakeside is the best place to see the sun go down behind Yomegashima island.
Especially on the weekends dozens of photographers gather here to try to take the perfect shot of the sunset.
島根大学旧奥谷宿舎 Shimane Daigaku Kyū Okudani Shukusha
Part of Shimane University Museum, this European style house was built in 1924 for foreign teachers at Matsue senior high school.
八重垣神社 Yaegaki Jinja
This shrine is dedicated to the gods of Japan's first official marriage and attracts many people who come and pray for a marriage partner or a divination of their future love life. In the woods behind the shrine is a small mirror pond on which people float fortune papers purchased at the shrine on which they place a coin to weigh them down. The time it takes for the paper to sink symbolizes the time it will take before a marriage partner will be found. Also note the small shrine with large stone genitalia on display. These carvings were not prayed to for fertility, but for the healing of various genital disorders.
神魂神社 Kamosu Jinja
Built in 1583, Kamosu Shrine is the oldest shrine built in the "taisha-zukuri" architectural style remaining in Japan. The creator gods Izanami and Izanagi are enshrined together in Kamosu Shrine. It is believed to pre-date the Grand Shrine of Izumo, Izumo Taisha by several hundred years and is a designated National Treasure.
風土記の丘
Ancient burial mounds and relics from the Kofun period (3rd to 6th centuries CE).
熊野大社 Kumano Taisha
Kumano Taisha (Kumano Grand Shrine) rests imposingly at the foot of Kumano Mountain across a bright red bridge at the headwaters of the Iu river. It has long been the region's Ichinomiya, or principal shrine, though today the nationally revered Izumo Taisha Grand Shrine ranks higher.
松江フォーゲルパーク
One of the largest greenhouses in the entire world, Vogel Park has an impressive variety of flowers and greenery. It is also an aviary housing many different species of birds, including a popular quartet of penguins.
由志園 Yūshien
This garden is on nearby Daikonjima island and has been designed so that it shows different flowers in each season. Daikonjima is famous for its peonies and 250 different kinds are on display at Yuushien.
黄泉比良坂 Yomotsuhirasaka
According to the Kojiki, Japan's oldest collection of myths from the 8th century CE, the entrance to Hell or the Underworld (Yomi, 黄泉) is in the province of Izumo, in what now is the eastern part of Matsue. The Underworld is ruled over by Susanoo, the god of sea and storms. The entrance to the underworld has been sealed off by a large boulder place there by the creator god Izanagi.
Held yearly from late March to mid April. Around this time the cherry trees around the castle will be in full bloom, and many people have hanami picnics on the castle grounds. In the evening lanterns are lit, making it possible to picnic until 9PM.
On the weekends various events are held on the castle grounds.
Because writer Lafcadio Hearn, one of Matsue's favorite sons, was from Ireland there are strong links between Ireland and Matsue. This ties are the most visible at the Matsue Irish Festival, which is held yearly for two consecutive days on a weekend in March and may (or may not) coincide with St. Patrick's Day. Events include a parade during the day and an Irish pub with live music inside Karakoro Art Studio in the evening. Wear something green!
玉造温泉桜まつり
Held yearly from late March to mid April. The cherry blossom trees in Tamatsukuri Onsen hot springs town will be in full bloom, so it's a great spot to have a picnic and maybe afterwards have a long soak in one of Tamatsukuri's many hot springs. Lots of events are held on the weekends and the streets are lit until late, making it an ideal place for a romantic evening stroll along the river which runs through town.
ホーランエンヤ
A very special festival, held only once every 12 years. Very colorful boats with many rowers and dancing kabuki actors on them accompany a portable shrine from Jozan Inari Shrine at Matsue Castle to a shrine in Higashi-Matsue. The festival lasts for three days, with the boats putting on a show underneath the bridges of Matsue on day 1 and 3, and a smaller show in Higashi-Matsue on day 2. Expect huge crowds especially on the final day. The next Horanenya festival will be held in May 2021.
Massive fireworks display over Lake Shinji on two consecutive evenings, the second evening having the larger show. The Suigosai festival is held yearly late July or early August. Many locals like to lay down a plastic sheet the day before to reserve a top viewing spot, so don't be afraid to do the same. The northern bank of Lake Shinji will be host to a huge amount of food stalls.
A lively festival held for two days every year in late July in the Tenjin-machi area, not too far from Matsue Station. On the first day a portable shrine is carried around town from 5PM to 9PM.
On the second day there are food stalls and events in the Tenjin-machi area.
Held each year mid August at the end of the Obon festival. The sight of floating paper lanterns being placed on Lake Shinji, symbolizing the return of ancestor spirits to another realm, is quite breathtaking. In 2012 this event will be held on the 16th of August.
Paper lanterns luminate the streets along the Matsue Castle moat from the Shimane Prefectural office all the way along Shiomi Nawate street. On Fridays and weekends there are food stalls on the Matsue Castle parking area and the Horikawa Sightseeing Boats will also operate in the evening during this period. From mid-September to mid-October.
An ancient and very loud festival, where massive drums on floats are pulled through the streets of Matsue. Every neighbourhood has their own drum, so competition to have the best drumming performance is fierce each year. Held yearly mid-October in the afternoon. Drummers gather around Matsue castle around noon and the parade starts at 2PM.
佐陀神能
A ritual purification dance performed yearly on 24 and 25 September at Sada Shrine. This dance has been inscribed by UNESCO on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, and for this reason it's being performed every Saturday evening (reservation required).
Take one of these boats through the moat around Mastue Castle and the neighboring canals for a totally different perspective on the city. The boats feature traditional charcoal heated low table or kotatsu during colder weather. There are several stops for getting on and off, the main one being right behind the parking area of Matsue Castle.
島根スサノオマジック
Matsue's basketball team competes in the top tier Japanese league. Matches are held on a regular basis.
八雲庵
A picturesque restaurant in a former samurai residence, with central garden, teahouse and carp-filled pond, specializing in soba and udon noodles.
赤べこ
A small, cozy sushi bar popular with the locals. Uses fresh, local ingredients. Has a special sushi sample course of around ¥1000 aimed at foreign visitors. Vegetarian sushi is available.
麪家 ひばり
Ramen shop that has made it on the Top 100 Best Ramen Shops in West Japan list. Known for their Agodashi Ramen.
餃子とレモンサワー うさぎや
Lively restaurant that's known for their gyoza and all-you-can-drink vodka lemon sours.
This cafe specializes in espresso coffee. The owner was Nr 1 at the Japanese national barista competition.
空 Kū
A cosy bakery with its own cafe. The bakery specializes in soft yeasty bread but also has a nice selection of European breads. The cafe serves light, mainly vegetarian lunches. If you like you select the bread you'd like to eat in the cafe.
ウォーターワークス Uōtāwākusu
A stylish cafe, popular with young women. Has a wide range of teas and coffees.
アル ソーレArusōre
A small family owned Italian restaurant. The chef likes to use high quality local ingredients in his cooking. Portions may be on the small side for Western tastes. Vegetarian friendly.
カプリチョーザ
Capriciosa one of Japan's oldest chains of Italian restaurants. Do not let that scare you off, because its founders actually went to Italy to learn about Italian food. Serves decent pastas and pizzas at mid-range prices. Has nice views over the Matsue station area. Vegetarian friendly.
レストラン＆カフェ ラウ, Resutoran Ando Kafe Rau
Situated in the back of Matsue English Garden, this trendy lounge style restaurant is a bit out of the way, but the views over Lake Shinji and atmosphere more than make up for it. Serves the largest pizzas in Matsue and bakes its own bread. English Garden is closed in the evening, so you'll have to walking along the path on the right side to the back English Garden to get to Laut. Laut is sometimes reserved by wedding parties, so it's a good idea to call ahead. Vegetarian friendly, consult with the waiter.
パスタファクトリー オルタッジョ
A popular pasta restaurant. Also sells pizzas.
レストラン原 Resutoran Hara
A cosy restaurant run by chef Hara and his wife. Homely atmosphere and friendly staff. Vegetarians should call a day in advance.
ラルカンシェル Rarukanshieru
Chef Ohashi has studied cooking in France and is passionate about finding new ways to use and present local ingredients. English and French is spoken. Reservations are recommended. Vegetarians should call a few days in advance.
インド料理Spice, Indo Ryōri Supaisu
Small and friendly Indian restaurant. Their "Big Naan" is massive! Also sells spices which can be hard to get in regular Japanese supermarkets. Vegetarian friendly.
印度亜
Nice selection of authentic Sri Lankan curries. Vegetarians should call one day in advance.
The largest nightclub in Matsue. Features live acts and DJs most Fridays and Saturdays.
It's a small music bar, but it manages to attract some very big names from the Japanese music world (and beyond) to perform here.
An Irish pub which is popular both with locals and Matsue's small expat community. One of the very few places in this part of Japan which has Guinness beer on tap. Things can get very lively here on Friday and Saturday evenings! English is spoken and Fish'n'chips are served.
A hard rock music bar popular with the local English teacher crowd. Often hosts international events.
A cozy night cafe. Has an interesting collection of retro style chairs and sofas on the second floor. Serves a wide array of drinks and wild looking desserts until late at night. From time to time local musicians have concerts here.
A laid-back bar, popular with the local hipster crowd.
Chill vinyl bar that serves a variety of drinks. The bartender/owner is very friendly and speaks some English.
旅館 寺津屋
Nothing fancy, just a pleasant family run ryokan inn with shared bathrooms and internet access. The hosts can pick you up at the train station. Shirakata Tenmangu Shrine is across the street from the inn. No credit cards accepted.
Internet access is available in the lobby, and coin laundry is available as well.
松江ユニバーサルホテル本館
The Universal Hotel chain has several buildings around Matsue Station.
松江駅前ユニバーサルホテル
No-nonsense business hotel. Rooms have LAN internet.
The most up-scale hotel in this area.
ホテル・アルファーワン松江
Rooms have basic amenities and LAN internet.
松江シティーホテル
A quirky business hotel. Although fine for a solo traveler, avoid double occupancy as the rooms are small even by business hotel standards and the so-called doubles only have one single bed. The hotel is easy to find, with a large clock tower on top; in fact, the owners have sprinkled their collection of antique clocks and other furniture throughout the hotel.
Lakeside rooms have views over Lake Shinji. Rooms have LAN internet. Parking is ¥525 per night. English is spoken.
ホテル一畑
Matsue's most upscale hotel, on the shoreline of Lake Shinji. Japan's emperor stayed here the last time he was in town. Lakeside rooms have a view over Lake Shinji. English is spoken.
松江アーバンホテルレークイン
The friendly middle-aged staff do their best to compensate the out-of-fashion design. Free parking, and free bicycles to reach the main sights. Free rice and miso soup breakfast. And even free coupons to use another hotel's hot bath with a lake view (10 minutes by bicycle)
島根県物産観光館 Shimane-ken Bussan Kankōkan
Sells foods and traditional crafts from all over Shimane.
松江ごころ
Sells local foods and sake. Has a small cafe inside.
シャミネ松江
A one-stop shop for local souvenirs, foodstuffs and sweets.
彩雲堂 Saiun-dō
The speciality of this shop is Wakakusa, a green, plum-flavored sweet. This sweet was one of the favorites of Lord Fumai, who was Matsue's seventh Daimyo feudal lord and the Edo period's greatest connoisseur of tea.
風流堂 Fūryū-dō
Specializes in Yamakawa pale pink and white confections, another favorite of Lord Fumai.
計月堂 Keigetsu-dō
This shop is famous for a sweet called Matsue-jō (Matsue Castle), which is a sweet paste-based, golden-floured confection.
A quaint cobbled street with lots of small shops selling accessories, Japanese sweets and clothing.
Housed in an old bank building, Karakoro Art Studio consists of a jewelry workshop, accessory shops, a bakery and different cafes and restaurants. Musical events are held here throughout the year.
野津めのう店 Notsu Menō Ten
Sells a wide variety of crystals and jewels. Specializes in Magatama, tear drop shaped pendants made by hand since prehistoric times from locally hewn jade.
Port Below sells a wide range of imported clothes and accessories. The shop also has a cafe where often music events and parties are held.
The largest and most popular shopping mall in Matsue. Features many cafes and restaurants, a supermarket, many boutique shops and a cinema.
Imported foods and delicatessen. A good place to go if you have a craving for a taste of home. Has a good selection of imported cheeses, cereals, wines and beers. Lapin has several stores throughout Matsue, but the store to the east of Matsue Castle is the easiest to get to on foot from the city center.
By train
Matsue is a major stop on the JR San'in Main Line, which parallels the Sea of Japan coastline for most of its length.
By bus
Highway buses connect Matsue and Tokyo (night bus only), Osaka, Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Okayama, Kobe and Nagoya (night bus only). The ticket office is outside Matsue Station behind Lawson.
By car
If you're coming from Kansai, take the Chugoku Expressway west towards Hiroshima. At Ochiai JCT take the Yonago Expressway towards Yonago. Once in Yonago take the San'in Expressway to Matsue.
By boat
By bike
Bicycles are a quick and convenient way to get around Matsue. They can be rented at several locations. Around Matsue Station:
By bus
Matsue Bus is the local bus company, and these buses can take you all over the city.
By train
For most destinations, JR trains can take you there. Catch a train at Matsue Station.
By taxi
Taxis can be found waiting on both sides of Matsue Station. The easiest way to get a taxi when not around the station is to ask a hotel or shop operator to call one.
By car
A car is not needed in the city center, but it could be handy if you're headed to the countryside.
Choose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Izumo · Regional · IZO
Loading places around the airport…
Articles and travel topics about Matsue and Japan.
Travel tipsCheck if you need a visa for Japan in 2026. Discover visa-exempt nationalities, eVisa eligibility, stay durations, and how to use Visit Japan Web QR codes.
7 min read
Travel tipsPlan for Japan's new travel costs in 2026. Learn about the ¥3,000 international departure tax, tiered hotel taxes in Kyoto, and Mt Fuji trail fees.
7 min read
Travel tipsComplete 2026 guide to global tourist taxes and access fees. Compare entry fees in Venice, Bali, Bhutan, Kyoto, and Edinburgh, and learn how to pay them.
8 min read
ItinerariesPlan a trip to Japan with kids in 2026. Discover a family-tested 10-day itinerary with theme parks, bullet trains, and practical parenting tips.
8 min read
Every section of the guide. Open one to read it in full.