A Castle Town on the Water: Exploring Matsue’s Samurai Past

Shimane prefectural government office and Matsue Castle in the distance.

The main keep and southern tower of Matsue Castle.

The main keep of Matsue Castle stands atop the low rise of Mount Kameda.

Lake Shinji and distant mountains are visible from the viewing deck of Matsue Castle.

Matsue Castle is easily recognized by its triangular half-tipped gables called irimoya hafu.

Replicas of the invocation sheets are posted on pillars in the cellar of the main keep. Between the posts is the 24-meter deep well.

The castle lookout on the top floor and iconic half-tipped gables below.

The lookout has no walls to obstruct the view, a useful feature when ascertaining enemy movements.

Constructed in 1903, the Kōunkaku is an exquisite example of Meiji-period architecture. Visitors can enjoy coffee or tea at the Kamedayama Tearoom on the first floor.

The torii and main hall of Matsue Shrine.

Stone step lead up to the main hall of Jōzan Inari Shrine behind the Matsue Castle. It is the starting and ending point of the Hōran En’ya festival.

The samurai residence of Shiomi Kohē was restored in recent years according to Meiji-era plans.

A mannequin recreates the lifestyle of a clan retainer.

A sightseeing boat passes the kuguri matsu, a curiously shaped pine tree associated with lovers.