Matsue
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Matsue's hidden gems and unique experiences!
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.
Begin your day with a visit to Lake Shinji for a tranquil boat ride. Experience the serene waters and observe the local wildlife that thrives around the lake.
Enjoy a lakeside lunch at a restaurant offering fresh fish dishes. After lunch, explore the surrounding area on foot, visiting local shops and art galleries.
As the sun sets, return to the lake to capture stunning photographs of the sunset reflecting on the water. Consider having dinner at a restaurant with a view of the lake.
Attend a guided walking tour focusing on Matsue's historical sites. Learn about the rich culture and history while visiting key landmarks.
Indulge in a traditional lunch at a local eatery before continuing your exploration. Visit the Samurai district and walk through the historical streets lined with traditional buildings.
End your day with a visit to the Shimane Art Museum. Enjoy art exhibitions and have dinner at a nearby restaurant to reflect on the day.
Depart for Mount Daisen early in the morning to take advantage of cooler temperatures for hiking. The trails vary in difficulty and offer beautiful views.
Take a break for lunch at one of the rest areas on the mountain. Continue hiking, or if you prefer, visit the nearby shrine dedicated to the mountain.
Head back to Matsue and treat yourself to a hot bath at a local onsen. Enjoy a well-deserved dinner featuring seasonal ingredients.
Visit the Matsue Shinjiko Onsen area, known for its shops and cafes. Enjoy breakfast in a local café and browse through unique souvenirs.
Explore Matsue's cultural heritage by visiting the Lafcadio Hearn Memorial Museum. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a restaurant specializing in regional cuisine.
Stroll through the vibrant streets, where the locals gather in the evening. Consider ending your day at a lively bar or izakaya.
Start your culinary journey with a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local inn. Experience the taste of Matsue through its fresh ingredients.
Attend a cooking class to learn how to prepare local dishes. After class, enjoy your creations for lunch and share the experience with fellow participants.
If you're up for it, visit a local market to sample more delicious street food. Spend your evening relaxing at a quaint café to reflect on the flavors of the day.
Begin your day with a walk in Jozan Park, taking in the seasonal blooms and natural beauty. It's a great place to relax and enjoy some fresh air.
Have a picnic lunch in the park, basking in the tranquil surroundings. Then visit the nearby Matsue English Garden to continue enjoying nature.
Head back to nature for a calming evening walk along the riverbank. End your day with dinner at a cozy restaurant featuring local ingredients.
Kick off your day by exploring Matsue Port and the unique aspects of maritime culture. Visit the local fish market to experience its bustling atmosphere.
Enjoy a seafood lunch at one of the port-side restaurants. Spend the afternoon on a boat tour around the port, learning about Matsue's connection to the sea.
As night falls, enjoy a leisurely walk by the water, soaking in the night views. Have dinner at a port-facing restaurant, enjoying a fresh catch of the day.
Spend the morning at the Matsue City Museum of Literature. Explore exhibits dedicated to local authors and the vivid literary history of Matsue.
Grab lunch at a nearby café and continue your literary journey by visiting the Izumo Shrine to experience local folklore. Explore the shrine and its surrounding gardens.
Wrap up your literary day by visiting a bookstore specializing in local literature. Consider dinner at a café where you can reflect on the stories you learned about.