✓ Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget on 🏡 booking.com
There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Matsue.
Matsue, a city nestled along the tranquil waters of Lake Shinji and flanked by imposing mountains, is like a storybook world brought to life.
From its enchanting gardens and ancient samurai residences to its hidden shrines and bustling markets, Matsue offers travelers an opportunity to step back in time and immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of Japan.
So come and explore the “Land of the Rising Sun” through the eyes of Matsue, and uncover its many wonders and secrets waiting to be discovered.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Matsue:
1. Matsue Castle
Matsue Castle, also known as the “black castle”, is a historic castle located in Matsue city in Shimane Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s interior and view exhibits on the castle’s history and architecture, as well as enjoy the panoramic view of Matsue city from the top of the castle tower.
Don’t miss: The castle’s original wooden structure and the striking contrast of the black walls against the surrounding greens and blues of nature.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during cherry blossom season (late March to early April) for a stunning view of the castle surrounded by blooming cherry trees.
2. Adachi Museum of Art
Adachi Museum of Art is a private art museum located in Yasugi, near Matsue city, Japan. The museum houses a vast collection of contemporary Japanese paintings, ceramics, and sculptures.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy the beautiful Japanese gardens, which are considered one of the best Japanese gardens in the country. Adachi Museum’s gardens are designed to integrate with the surrounding landscape and offer a range of views throughout the year.
The museum also has many contemporary Japanese artworks on display, including calligraphy, ceramics, and paintings.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the view of the gardens from the museum’s observation room, where visitors can admire the stunning scenery of the garden and the surrounding area.
The best time to visit the gardens is in spring and autumn when the leaves turn gold or red.
Insider travel tips: – Take a guided tour to learn about the history of Japanese art and the museum’s collection.
3. Lake Shinji
A large freshwater lake located in Matsue, Japan.
What to see or do: Admire stunning views of the lake from various viewpoints around the shoreline. Take a boat tour to see the famous Shimane Art Museum, which appears to float on the lake’s surface.
Rent a bicycle and ride along the lake’s edge to stop in small towns and parks.
Don’t miss: Watching the sunset over Lake Shinji from a scenic viewpoint. Try locally farmed seafood, particularly clams, which are known for their flavor and quality.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the Matsue Suigo Sakura Festival (late April to early May) or the Lake Shinji-ko Matsuri (early August) for fireworks displays and festivities.
Take a tour of an oyster farm to learn about the local economy. Plan a visit to Matsue Castle, a beautiful Japanese castle located a short distance from Lake Shinji.
4. Lafcadio Hearn’s Former Residence
A preserved house that used to be the residence of the famous Greek-Irish writer, Lafcadio Hearn.
What to see or do: Explore the traditional Japanese architecture that has been beautifully preserved for over a century.
Visitors can see the tatami room where Hearn wrote many of his books, as well as the garden where he found inspiration for some of his haikus.
Don’t miss: The museum on-site, which provides a detailed look into Hearn’s life and work, including artifacts, manuscripts, and personal items.
Insider travel tips: Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the significance and history of the residence. Also, be sure to visit during the fall season, when the surrounding trees and foliage create a breathtaking atmosphere.
5. Matsue Vogel Park
A bird and flower park located in Matsue, Japan.
What to see or do: Wander through the park and observe over 200 different bird species, including flamingos and parrots. Marvel at the colorful array of flowers and plants on display.
Take a ride on the park’s Ferris wheel for an aerial view of the entire park.
Don’t miss: The daily bird shows, where talented birds exhibit their skills in singing and dancing. The park’s natural bird habitats, designed to simulate the birds’ natural environments.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid big crowds, especially during peak season. Bring comfortable shoes, as the park covers a large area.
Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning sight of colorful birds and flowers.
6. Tamatsukuri Onsen
A traditional Japanese hot spring town located in Matsue city, Shimane prefecture.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the charming streets that are lined with ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) and shops selling local crafts and snacks.
Visit one of the many hot springs in the area and soak in the mineral-rich waters, which are said to have healing properties.
The Tamatsukuriyu Shrine, located within the onsen area, is also worth a visit.
Don’t miss: Trying the local specialty, called “Tamatsukuri Onsen Tamago,” which is a type of steamed egg that is cooked in the hot spring water.
It has a unique texture and flavor that you won’t find anywhere else.
Insider travel tips: Don’t be afraid to try different hot springs in the area as each one has its own special qualities.
Be sure to check the hours of the hot springs beforehand as they may have different operating hours or be closed on certain days.
If you’re planning to stay overnight, consider booking a room at one of the traditional ryokans for an authentic Japanese experience.
7. Matsue History Museum
The Matsue History Museum is a museum that covers the history and culture of the city of Matsue, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can see various exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Matsue, such as the lifestyle of its people, the city’s development, and its important figures.
The museum houses around 100,000 items that include old documents, photographs, and artifacts.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss out on the replica of Matsue Castle, which is housed within the museum. Visitors can walk around the castle and learn about its history and significance in the city.
Insider travel tips: -The museum has an audio guide available in English and other languages.
8. Matsue Castle Historical Museum
Matsue Castle Historical Museum is a former samurai castle turned museum that displays the history of the castle and the region.
What to see or do: Explore the castle’s extensive history and its role in the region’s history. See the exhibits of ancient artifacts, weapons, and traditional samurai armor, among other displays.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to climb Matsue Castle’s five floors and take in the scenic views of the city. You can also dress up in samurai costumes for an unforgettable photo experience.
Insider travel tips: – Get an English audio-guide to gain a better understanding of the exhibits.
9. Yakumo Koizumi Residence
The Yakumo Koizumi Residence is the former home of Lafcadio Hearn, a renowned author known for his works on Japanese legends and folklore.
It is a historical site located in Matsue, Shimane Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the traditional Japanese mansion which features tatami mat flooring, beautiful Japanese gardens, and authentic Japanese architecture. You can view various exhibits and artifacts related to Lafcadio Hearn’s life and works, including the famous “Kwaidan” book.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to walk around the traditional Japanese garden, which features a pond and a small waterfall.
Also, make sure to take a peek at the historic artifacts and documents on display, such as Lafcadio Hearn’s signature, photos, and memorabilia.
Insider travel tips: The residence can get busy during peak periods such as cherry blossom season and summer holidays, so book your tickets online in advance.
10. The Museum of Art Shimane
The Museum of Art Shimane is located in the city of Matsue, Japan. It is a contemporary art museum that primarily displays works created by artists with a connection to the Shimane prefecture.
What to see or do: The museum holds temporary exhibitions that change every few months, showcasing a broad range of art styles and mediums. Visitors can see works by local artists and nationally recognized artists alike.
The museum also contains a permanent collection that includes traditional Japanese art and crafts, as well as contemporary pieces.
Don’t miss: One of the museum’s most popular exhibitions is the “Mystery Art Show,” which features anonymous pieces created by both established and emerging artists.
The identities of the artists are not revealed until after the show ends, making it a unique and exciting experience for visitors.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the museum’s website before visiting to see what exhibitions are currently on display. The museum is closed on Mondays and some national holidays, so plan accordingly.
Additionally, visitors can purchase a discounted combined ticket that includes admission to both the Museum of Art Shimane and the nearby Shimane Art Museum.
11. Gesshoji Temple
Gesshoji Temple is a peaceful Zen temple located in Matsue, Japan.
What to see or do: The temple’s main hall houses a statue of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, which is said to be the largest wooden statue in Japan.
Visitors can also stroll through the beautiful gardens and meditate in the quiet atmosphere of the temple.
Don’t miss: The temple’s famous “floating bridge” (yodogawa) which stretches across a pond in the gardens. It’s a popular spot for photos!
Insider travel tips: Make sure to take your shoes off before entering the temple, as is customary in Japan.
Also, try to visit during the autumn months when the leaves of the maple trees in the gardens turn a brilliant shade of red.
Finally, be sure to try the green tea and sweet treats served at the temple’s tea house for a true Japanese cultural experience.
12. Meimei-an Tea House
Traditional Japanese tea house that serves green tea and sweets in Matsue, Shimane Prefecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can experience an authentic Japanese tea ceremony and learn about Japanese tea culture. The tea house also has a beautiful traditional Japanese garden that can be enjoyed while sipping on tea.
Don’t miss: Trying the wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets), which are carefully selected to complement the flavor of the tea. The Japanese sesame ice cream is also a must-try.
Insider travel tips: Meimei-an Tea House is located in the Matsue Castle grounds, so it’s a good spot to visit after exploring the castle.
The tea house can get busy, so it’s recommended to make a reservation in advance.
The tea house has a variety of tea sets to choose from, so it’s best to ask the staff for recommendations based on your preferences.
13. Shimane Art Museum
The Shimane Art Museum is a contemporary art museum located in Matsue, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum showcases a wide range of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and photography from both Japanese and international artists.
There are usually several rotating exhibitions throughout the year, so check the museum’s website for up-to-date information.
Don’t miss: The museum’s permanent collection includes works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, Yayoi Kusama, and Marc Chagall. Be sure to check out the outdoor sculpture garden which features some impressive large-scale sculptures.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re a student, bring your student ID for a discount on admission.
14. Kamosu Shrine
Kamosu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Matsue, Japan.
It is one of the oldest shrines in the city and is dedicated to the deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the god of the seas and storms.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the peaceful grounds and admire the stunning architecture of the shrine’s main hall, which was built using traditional Japanese techniques.
The shrine is also surrounded by beautiful nature, including a large pond and woods, where visitors can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the tranquility.
Don’t miss: One of the main attractions of Kamosu Shrine is the Torii gate at the entrance, which is unusual for a Shinto shrine as it is made of stone rather than wood.
Another must-see is the shrine’s Kagura-den, a small theater where traditional Japanese dance performances are held.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to visit the shrine during the annual Kamiari-sai Festival, which is held in May and involves a colorful procession of mikoshi (portable shrines) and music.
Also, if you’re interested in learning more about the shrine’s history and significance, there are free guided tours available in English.