Matsue Castle
castle
Matsue Castle
松江城
Overview
One of Japan's 12 original castles with surviving keep, designated National Treasure, known as the 'Black Castle.'
One of only 12 Japanese castles with its original wooden structure intact, and the only one known to have a well inside the tower keep. Completed in 1611, it passed through several lords before the Matsudaira family held it for 234 years across 10 generations. The castle's builders faced a timber shortage common across Japan at the time and solved it by binding clusters of smaller timbers with iron clamps, creating the 130 composite pillars clearly visible today. Designated a National Treasure in 2015, the top-floor lookout offers a panorama of Lake Shinji and the mountains beyond.
Local tips
One of 12 original tenshu keeps remaining in Japan, having survived the Meiji-era demolitions that removed most castle structures. The 5th floor looks west over Lake Shinji-ko, whose sunsets are rated among Japan's three finest views. The castle moat is navigable on city-operated punted wooden boats (¥1,500, about 50 minutes). Combination tickets including the Lafcadio Hearn Memorial Museum nearby are available at the main gate.
Practical info
- Japanese name
- 松江城
- Nearest station
- Matsue Station (10 min bus)
- Payment
- Cards accepted
- Reservations
- not required
Accessibility
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