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.





Matsue Travel Tips
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
Attractions
See all- Districts:
- Matsue Former Samurai District
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1Matsue Castle
Historic black castle with original keep
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2Adachi Museum of Art
Award-winning garden and Japanese art
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3Lafcadio Hearn’s Residence
Famous for introducing Japan’s culture abroad
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4Yushien Garden
Famous for year-round peony flowers
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5Matsue Bukeyashiki Residence
Historic samurai home and museum
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6Lake Shinji
Beautiful sunsets and fresh clams
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7Shimane Art Museum
Stunning sunsets and water-themed art
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8Lake Nakaumi
Majestic views and Ramsar Wetland
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9Matsue Vogel Park
Large bird collection and flower greenhouse
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10Matsue Gokoku Shrine
Love votive tablets and historic shrine
Nearby
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