Built over a five-year span between 1607 and 1611, Matsue Castle’s keep is one of only 12 castle keeps across Japan that is still in their original state. Additionally, it was designated as a national treasure in 2015, making it one of only five castle keeps to have such a designation

Following the Meiji Restoration in 1868, as a large number of castles were demolished or auctioned off for their building materials, local residents put together the money to preserve the castle keep, allowing this rich part of Matsue’s local history to survive. The top floor of the keep provides a splendid view of the city and Lake Shinji, giving you the chance to taste the life of a feudal castle lord. Much of the area around the castle preserves buildings and other structures from the Edo Period, including a samurai residence that is now a museum to the lifestyle of that era. You can also take a boat tour of the castle moat, which provides views of the city unattainable anywhere else.

● Kimono Rental Experience (Click here)
This is a plan where you can wear a kimono and take a relaxing ride on the Horikawa Sightseeing Boat throughout the town. After sightseeing, you can continue to walk and explore the historically rich Shiomi Nawate Street.