Things To Do
in Matsue
Matsue is a picturesque city located in Shimane Prefecture, Japan, known for its historic charm and beautiful landscapes. The city is home to Matsue Castle, one of the few remaining original castles in the country, offering visitors a glimpse into Japan's feudal past. Matsue is situated along the shores of Lake Shinji, providing stunning views and an opportunity for scenic boat cruises.
With a rich cultural heritage, Matsue also boasts traditional tea houses, samurai residences, and well-preserved historic districts for visitors to explore.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Matsue Castle, one of Japan's few remaining original castles. Walk through the beautiful gardens surrounding the castle, soaking in the historical atmosphere.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby local restaurant and sample some of the region's famous seafood. Afterward, explore the castle's various exhibits and climb to the top for stunning views of the city.
Finish your day with a leisurely stroll along the ryotokai (moat) area. Enjoy the peaceful scenery and consider dining at a traditional izakaya to cap off your experience.
Take a morning trip to Daisen National Park, where you can hike various trails that accommodate different skill levels. Breathe in the fresh air and admire the region's natural beauty.
Have a picnic lunch while enjoying scenic views of the mountains. Explore more of the park's trails or visit one of the visitor centers for information about the local flora and fauna.
Return to Matsue and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a café. Reflect on your day of adventure while trying local specialties like Matsue's famous Izumo soba.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites like Matsue Castle and the Adachi Museum of Art.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including Lake Shinji and nearby mountains.
- Pleasant climate with distinct seasons, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Famous for its local cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional sweets.
- Less crowded compared to larger Japanese cities, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Limited public transportation options compared to bigger cities, potentially making travel inconvenient.
- Few international entertainment options and a quieter nightlife.
- Language barrier may be an issue for non-Japanese speakers.
- Economic opportunities may be less diverse than in larger urban areas.
- Some areas may experience harsh winters, which could be a downside for those who prefer warmer climates.
Best Activities in Matsue
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the historic Matsue Castle and explore the surrounding park and moat.
Enjoy boating, fishing, or cycling around Lake Shinji.
Explore the beautiful bird park with various species of birds and lush greenery.
Take a relaxing boat cruise along the scenic Matsue River and enjoy the views of the city.
Relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs known for their healing properties.
Tours
Uncover the best of Matsue with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Matsue
Visit one of these nice places.
One of Japan's few original castles with a beautiful view of the city and Lake Shinji
A bird and flower park with stunning views of seasonal flowers and picturesque landscape
An onsen resort with scenic views of Lake Shinji and the surrounding mountains
Food in Matsue
Matsue Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local specialty featuring mackerel from Lake Nakaumi served as sushi. It's best enjoyed at sushi restaurants like Kappa Zushi.
Must-Try!
A unique dish of rice, vegetables, and meat served with buckwheat noodles, available at renowned establishments like Shunpanro.
A traditional soup made with fresh clams from Lake Shinji, a must-try at local eateries such as Shunkaen.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide range of street food delicacies such as fresh seafood skewers, takoyaki, and matcha-flavored treats.
A hub for local produce and street food, offering delights like grilled fish, oysters, and various snacks highlighting the region's flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to remove your shoes before entering a home or certain traditional buildings in Matsue as a sign of respect for the cleanliness and order of the space.
In Matsue, showing respect for elders and those in authority is an important cultural norm. Politeness and deference are highly valued in interactions with older individuals and those in positions of authority.
Matsue has a rich cultural heritage, and it is important to show respect for traditional customs and rituals. This may include participating in local festivals or observing proper etiquette when visiting shrines and temples.
Safety
Tipping in Matsue
Ensure a smooth experience
In Matsue, Japan, tipping is not a common practice. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments. Instead, excellent service is typically acknowledged with a polite bow or a thank-you.
Payment in Matsue, Japan is predominantly cash-based, although credit cards are increasingly being accepted in larger establishments. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash, as some smaller businesses and traditional establishments may not accept cards. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawal.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Matsue, Japan. Cherry blossoms and mild weather make for a beautiful experience.
Expect warm and humid weather. This is when the Horan-enya Festival takes place, featuring traditional dance and music.
Cool and comfortable temperatures with stunning fall foliage. Perfect for exploring the historical sites and gardens.
Chilly temperatures, but a great time to enjoy the serene beauty of Matsue, especially around the snow-covered Matsue Castle.
Matsue at Night
Hiking in Matsue
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area near Matsue that offers trails with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape and historical sites.
While primarily a historic site, walking around Matsue Castle provides access to lovely walking paths and gardens that lead into more natural trails.
An island accessible via a short ferry ride, featuring coastal trails and scenic views of the Sea of Japan.
A nature park offering well-maintained hiking trails, perfect for experiencing local flora and fauna.
A longer hiking route that passes through various landscapes, including mountain views, forests, and traditional Japanese villages.
A nearby national park with a variety of hiking options ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks.
Aiports
How to reach Matsue by plane.
The nearest airport which serves both domestic and limited international flights, located approximately 25 kilometers from Matsue.
About 50 kilometers from Matsue, this airport mainly handles domestic flights but also offers some international connections.
Located around 140 kilometers from Matsue, this airport offers a wider range of international flights along with domestic services.
Approximately 160 kilometers away, Hiroshima Airport provides numerous domestic and international flights.
Located around 300 kilometers from Matsue, this major international airport serves long-haul international flights and extensive domestic routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Matsue, consisting primarily of ethnic Japanese individuals.
A smaller community representing people of Korean descent.
A growing community of residents with Chinese origins.
Includes individuals from various other ethnic backgrounds, such as Vietnamese or international residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is a very popular sport in Matsue, with many local teams and enthusiasts engaging in both playing and watching the sport.
Soccer has a strong following in Matsue, particularly among youth, with various clubs and schools promoting the sport.
Basketball is widely played in Matsue, with schools and community programs supporting leagues and tournaments.
Volleyball is a popular sport at both the school and community levels in Matsue, with numerous competitions held annually.
Sports such as sumo and kendo have cultural significance in Matsue, and local events celebrate and promote these traditions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Matsue.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, some restaurants in Matsue offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as tempura vegetables, tofu-based meals, and vegetable sushi rolls.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find suitable options like rice-based dishes, sashimi, and certain types of hot pot dishes without soy sauce.