Sakaiminato

Matsue

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  SightsMatsue Castle

  Built in 1611, this is one of only 12 original castle keeps remaining in Japan and is designated a National Treasure.

  Official website
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  SightsAdachi Museum of Art

  This art museum displays a vast garden selected as Japan's No. 1 garden for 20 consecutive years by a U.S. magazine specializing in Japanese gardens, along with masterpieces of Japanese painting by Yokoyama Taikan.

  Official website
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  SightsShimane Art Museum

  Located on the shore of Lake Shinji, this museum is called the 'art museum for watching the sunset.' It exhibits a sculpture garden, Japanese paintings, and photographs.

  Official website
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  SightsYuushien Garden

  This traditional Japanese strolling garden is on Daikonshima Island in Lake Nakaumi. It is known for peonies blooming throughout the year and an exhibit on Korean ginseng.

  Official website
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  NeighborhoodsShiomi Nawate

  This traditional Edo-period street along the moat north of Matsue Castle preserves old samurai residences and rows of old pine trees.

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  SightsMatsue History Museum

  This museum introduces the history of the Matsue Domain and the traditional culture of its castle town. It has a beautiful garden in the style of an Edo-period samurai residence.

  Official website
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  ActivitiesMatsue Horikawa Sightseeing Boat

  This sightseeing boat cruises around the moat surrounding Matsue Castle, passing beneath 16 bridges while visitors enjoy views of the castle.

  The roof lowers when you pass beneath the bridge, so duck as directed.

  Official website Google Maps
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  Food and cafésYakumoan

  This long-established soba restaurant is on the samurai residence street Shiomi Nawate. Guests can enjoy Izumo warigo soba served in three-tier lacquered boxes and kamo nanban while looking out over a peaceful Japanese garden.

  Official website Google Maps
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  ShoppingKarakoro Art Studio

  This craft complex reuses the former Matsue branch of the Bank of Japan, built in 1938. It houses traditional craft workshops, general stores, and cafés.

  Google Maps
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  Food and cafésKissa Kiharu

  Located inside the Matsue History Museum, this traditional teahouse serves delicate seasonal wagashi made by a confectioner recognized as a 'Contemporary Master Craftsman,' along with premium matcha overlooking a Japanese garden.

  Google Maps
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  Food and cafésKawakyo

  This well-known restaurant carefully serves local dishes made with fresh Yamato clams (shijimi), including garlic-steamed clams and clam porridge, among Lake Shinji's seven prized delicacies.

  This restaurant has limited counter seating, so avoid busy periods or check before visiting.

  Google Maps