Matsue Castle

What to know

Matsue Castle (松江城, Matsuejō) is one of only a dozen original castles in Japan, meaning its main tower has survived fires, earthquakes, and the anti-feudal demolitions of the Meiji Period. It is known for its bulky, dark, and austere exterior.

Completed in 1611, a few years after the last decisive battle of feudal Japan, Matsue Castle was reassigned in 1638 to a branch of the Matsudaira clan, relatives of the ruling Tokugawa. Perched on a hill and surrounded by a moat and thick walls, it was built to withstand war but never saw battle. Major renovations in the 1950s further preserved it, and the main keep now houses a museum displaying period arms and artifacts.

In addition to touring the castle keep and grounds, visitors can enjoy a river boat cruise around the castle moat. Boats depart every 20–30 minutes from several points around the castle, driven by boatmen and boatwomen who share local history (in Japanese only, though audio recordings in other languages are available).

Matsue Castle is a 30-minute walk from JR Matsue Station or a 15-minute walk from Ichibata Dentetsu's Matsue-Shinjiko-Onsen Station. It is also connected to both stations by the Lakeline loop bus.

How to get to and around Matsue Matsue Castle Hours 8:30 to 18:30 (until 17:00 from October to March) Admission ends 30 minutes before closing time Closed No closing days Admission 800 yen (castle only) 1440 yen (also including the Hearn museum and the samurai residence) Castle Moat Boat Cruise Hours 9:00 to 17:00 (until 16:00 from October to February) Departures every 20-30 minutes. Closed No closing days Admission 1600 yen for a 1-day pass Questions? Ask in our forum.