Matsue Travel Tips

Recommended

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1 of 1 in Shimane Prefecture

Matsue (松江), the charming capital of Shimane Prefecture, is beautifully nestled along the eastern shores of Lake Shinji, earning it the nickname “Water City.” This picturesque destination is framed by the serene waters of Lake Shinji, Lake Nakaumi, and the Sea of Japan, offering visitors a peaceful waterfront experience. Dive into the city’s rich history with a visit to its original castle and the former residence of Lafcadio Hearn, where Japanese tradition meets Western influence.

Matsue also serves as an ideal base for day trips to nearby Izumo Taisha — one of Japan’s most revered Shinto shrines—and the Adachi Museum of Art, renowned for its stunning landscape gardens. Discover the unique charm of Matsue, where history, culture, and natural beauty come together to create an unforgettable travel experience.

Getting around

Getting around in Matsue is easy. The city is served by both JR and Ichibata Railway, with JR Matsue Station located south of the Matsue castle and Ichibata’s terminal, Shinjiko Onsen Station, just to the west. The Ichibata Line connects Matsue with Izumo and the renowned Izumo Taisha Shrine.

You can use city buses or the tourist-friendly Lakeline loop bus, which stops at all major attractions every 20 minutes. Fares are 210 yen per ride or 520 yen for a day pass. If you enjoy walking, it’s about 30 minutes on foot from JR Matsue Station or just 15 minutes from Shinjiko Onsen Station to the castle. Nearby airports include Izumo and Yonago, both offering bus connections to the city in under an hour.