One of Japan's few original castles stands over a city threaded with canals and bridges. Lafcadio Hearn made his home here, drawn by the ghost stories and old-world atmosphere. Sunset over Lake Shinji is worth the trip alone.
What Matsue is known for
Top-rated in Matsue
Takahashi House
4.7landmark
The Takahashi House sits just off the road to the Ryugenji mine shaft.
Yakiniku Ginzan Wagyu
4.7restaurant
Specializes in high-quality Shimane Wagyu beef, grilled at your table in the Karakoro Art Studio complex.
Miho Shrine
4.5shrine
Head shrine for Ebisu, god of fishing and music.
Toyosaka Shrine
4.4shrine
Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine was controlled by local warlords from its discovery in 1527 until the beginning of the seventeenth century.
Yunotsu-Okidomari Road
4.4nature
The winding road between Iwami Ginzan and the ports of Yunotsu and Okidomari passes through mountains and deep forests on its way to the Sea of Japan.
Ryotei Minami
4.5restaurant
Known for its 'Tai-meshi' (Sea Bream Rice), where you mix toppings and broth over rice.
Hamayaki Sakaba Minato
4.6restaurant
Fun, interactive dining where you grill your own fresh seafood (hamayaki) right at your table.
Matsue Castle
4.4castle
One of Japan's 12 original castles with surviving keep, designated National Treasure, known as the 'Black Castle.'