Matsue Castle: An Original Black Keep by Lake Shinji
How to visit Matsue Castle, one of Japan's twelve original keeps: the National Treasure tower, Horikawa moat boat rides, Lake Shinji sunsets and getting there.
Quick answer
- What it is: a castle in the city of Matsue, completed in 1611.
- Famous for: being one of only twelve castles in Japan with an original keep.
- Status: a National Treasure since 2015.
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours with a moat boat ride.
- Best time: spring for cherry blossom, or any evening for the Lake Shinji sunset.
- Map: Open Matsue Castle in Google Maps
Matsue Castle is the real thing. Its tall, dark keep has survived earthquakes, wars and the order to tear down castles in the 1870s, and you can climb its steep wooden stairs today.
Why Matsue Castle is a wonder
The keep looks like four storeys from outside but holds six floors inside. Its black wooden walls earned it the nickname plover castle, after the shape of its roofs.
Inside are the original timbers, a well and displays of armour. The top floor gives views over the city and Lake Shinji.
Boats on the moats
The Horikawa sightseeing boats glide around the castle moats and through the old samurai district. The roofs fold down so the boats can pass under low bridges.
In winter, the boats have kotatsu heated tables to keep passengers warm.
What to see
| Spot | What you see | Time (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Castle keep | Original wooden floors and city views | 45 minutes |
| Horikawa boat | A loop around the moats | 50 minutes |
| Shiomi Nawate | A samurai street along the moat | 20 minutes |
| Lafcadio Hearn sites | The house and museum of the writer | 40 minutes |
| Lake Shinji | One of Japan's best sunset views | 30 minutes |
When to go
- Early April: cherry blossom around the castle.
- Summer evenings: long sunsets over Lake Shinji.
- Autumn: clear weather for the keep views.
- Winter: kotatsu boats on the moat.
Our tip: End the day at Lake Shinji for sunset. The lakeside near the Shimane Art Museum is a favourite spot.
Getting there
- From Matsue Station: a bus takes about 10 minutes.
- From Okayama: about 2 hours 30 minutes by limited express train.
- By air: Izumo Airport is about 30 minutes away by bus.
Visiting tips
- Take your shoes off inside the keep and carry them in the bag provided.
- The stairs are very steep. Use the handrails.
- Do not touch the wooden pillars and displays.
- Check the castle's site for current fees and hours.
Frequently asked questions
Is Matsue Castle original?
Yes. Its keep dates from 1611 and is one of twelve original keeps in Japan.
Is Matsue Castle a National Treasure?
Yes, since 2015.
What is the Horikawa boat ride?
A sightseeing boat around the castle moats.
How long do you need?
About 2 to 3 hours.
Mount Takao
A forested mountain with a temple, tengu legends and views of Fuji, an hour from Shinjuku.
We check this guide regularly. Prices, hours and rules in Japan can change, so confirm with the official sources below before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.