Matsue Castle: A Timeless Samurai Stronghold

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Explore one of Japan's last original castles in Matsue, offering stunning views, rich history, and a glimpse into samurai culture.

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Matsue-jō Castle

Matsue Castle, also known as the 'Black Castle' or 'Plover Castle,' is one of only twelve original castles remaining in Japan, having survived centuries of natural disasters and wars. Completed in 1611, it offers visitors a glimpse into feudal Japan with its well-preserved keep, historical artifacts, and panoramic city views.

A brief summary to Matsue-jō Castle

1-5 Tonomachi, Matsue, Tonomachi, Shimane, 690-0887, JP
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Monday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
Tuesday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
Wednesday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
Thursday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
Friday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
Saturday 8:30 am-6:30 pm
Sunday 8:30 am-6:30 pm

Local tips

Take the Horikawa Sightseeing Boat for a unique perspective of the castle and surrounding moats.
Visit during cherry blossom season (end of March to early April) for stunning views of the castle surrounded by blooming trees.
Explore the castle grounds, including Jozan Park, Kounkaku, and Jozan Inari-jinja Shrine.
Check out the Matsue History Museum & Horan-enya Memorial Hall near the castle to learn more about the city's history.
Enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in Matsue, a city known for its tea culture.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Ichibata Yakushi

Ichibata Yakushi: Temple of Healing and History

San'in Tourism Organization

San'in Tourism Organization: Gateway to Western Japan's Hidden Gems

Izumo Tourism Association

Discover the Heart of Izumo: The Izumo Tourism Association

Getting There

Walking

From JR Matsue Station, the castle is approximately a 30-minute walk. Head north from the station, passing Lake Shinji and the city's canals. The route is well-signposted. From Ichibata Dentetsu's Matsue-Shinjiko-Onsen Station, the castle is a 15-minute walk.
Public Transport

The Lakeline loop bus connects both JR Matsue Station and Ichibata Dentetsu's Matsue-Shinjiko-Onsen Station with Matsue Castle. Get off at the 'Matsue Castle Otemae' bus stop. The bus operates every 20 minutes. A single ride costs ¥210, and a one-day pass is available for ¥520.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available at both JR Matsue Station and Ichibata Dentetsu's Matsue-Shinjiko-Onsen Station. A taxi ride to Matsue Castle from either station takes approximately 5-10 minutes and costs around ¥800-¥1200, depending on traffic.

Discover more about Matsue-jō Castle

Matsue Castle, a majestic structure in Shimane Prefecture, stands as a testament to Japan's rich feudal past. Completed in 1611 under the Horio clan, it later became the stronghold of the Matsudaira clan, relatives of the Tokugawa shogunate. As one of only a dozen original castles in Japan, its main tower has remarkably survived fires, earthquakes, and the anti-feudal demolitions of the Meiji Period. This earned it the designation of a National Treasure in 2015. The castle's nickname, 'Black Castle' or 'Plover Castle,' comes from its dark exterior and elegant, swooping roofs resembling a plover's wings. Perched atop a hill in Jozan Park, the castle was strategically built to withstand war, though it never saw battle. Visitors can explore the castle's main keep, which houses a museum displaying period arms and artifacts. The top floor offers a 360-degree view of Matsue and Lake Shinji. Beyond the keep, the castle grounds feature the Kounkaku, a Western-style mansion built in 1903, and the Jozan Inari-jinja Shrine, a favorite of writer Lafcadio Hearn. Visitors can also enjoy a scenic boat cruise around the castle moat, offering a unique perspective of the castle and surrounding samurai district. In spring, Jozan Park becomes a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. Matsue itself is known as a 'City of Water' due to its extensive moats and canals. It's also considered one of Japan's major centers of tea ceremony culture, thanks to the influence of Lord Matsudaira Harusato.