Matsue Castle, one of Japan's twelve original castle keeps and a designated National Treasure, is set within a large castle park whose moat promenades and inner grounds erupt in warm colour each November. The black-lacquered 'Plover Castle' is particularly striking against the vivid reds and yellows of surrounding maples and ginkgos. Horikawa Sightseeing Boat cruises navigate the castle moat beneath low-hanging autumn branches for a unique foliage-by-boat experience. The castle's hilltop position also offers panoramic views over Lake Shinji and the city.
- Type
- Venue
- Category
- Autumn Leaves
- Season
- Autumn
- Month
- Mid to Late November
- Region
- Chugoku
- Prefecture
- Shimane
- City
- Matsue
Highlights
- ◆National Treasure — one of Japan's only original castle keeps
- ◆Horikawa moat boat cruise beneath autumn branches
- ◆Panoramic views over Lake Shinji from the keep
- ◆Ginkgo-lined paths inside the castle grounds
- ◆Evening illumination events during koyo season