Quite historical, must visit if you are in town. Easy to get, many food options and nice view on the top

Beautiful castle. To visit inside the castle you need to drop your shoes. Running around in the castle without shoes in winter, was very uncomfortable.

I went to Matsue Castle at the end of February 2023. We did the moat tour the day before - highly recommended - but it was sleeting, so we left the castle tour for the next day. It was still very cold, but the sun was out. The castle is amazing. Walking around in those rooms and seeing and feeling the ancient timbers - you're touching history. There's lots of information to read (in English), photos of the castle through time, artefacts and incredible views of the city. But a warning. I think it's dangerous. You can't wear shoes inside, there are lots of stairs, they're really steep and the timber is slippery. You've got to be fit. It's like climbing a mountain. And you've got to be really careful. OH and S would have a field day here!!

Went here two days ago. Aside from the castle, there was some flower display like bonsai and chrysanthemum.

Matsue is an original castle making it one of twelve national treasures in Japan. The main structure has overcome fires, earthquakes and the anti-feudal demolitions during the Meiji Period. The castle was built in 1611 and when you visit you can walk around the lavish grounds and observe the moat that surrounds the entrance. I had a great time but it was really cold when I visited in November. I recommend you wear warm clothing and socks.

Different experience than most castles in Japan since it has the original structure instead of a more museum feel. Has English signs and takes credit card. Highly recommend. Has very steep steps. Also has photos of a lot of the other castles in Japan so it was fun finding the one's we've also visited.

It wasn’t a good weather when we got there so I guess we could not see the best of this old castle. However there was a sense of its own beauty even though it was cloudy and a bit of rainy. It didn’t take that long to walk around the castle. When we got out of the castle the raining stopped and we could see a beautiful blue sky. I’m sure it would have a fantastic view when it got all of cherry blossoms in spring.

One of the top spots for appreciating the unique Japanese castle and cherry blossom in Spring. We enjoyed our time and opportunity of visiting there and having some serene vibes.

The price for what you get is fantastic. This is one of the few places where I read most of the boards displaying historic and educational information and enjoyed them. The surrounding area is also filled with interesting sights and the town itself was also surprisingly nice; I actually wished I had decided to spend a night there.

Gets really hot and stuffy here during the summer so wear something comfortable! There’s an open view at the very top (unlike just window viewing you will find at the top of some castles). Across from the front entrance of the castle is a small building where you can purchase tickets. If you cross the iron gates and descend the steps, there’s a huge shrine, plantation (museum?) and bathrooms.

One of the twelve original castles. It is very well preserved and great place to visit if you are in Matsue. The stairs inside are quite steep and difficult to climb, so be ready for it if you planned to visit. There is a small museum near the castle which provides traditional Japanese snacks at a low cost, which makes the visit even better!

Was built over a five year period (1607-1611)by Yoshiharu Horio founder of Matsue City. It is one of the last remaining original Castles in Japan. Visitors come to enjoy the panoramic view from the top floor the beautiful cherry blossoms that fill the Castle grounds during Spring.

One of the best cultural Immersion introductions into the city and region of Shimane. Make sure you check out the tea drinking introductions at the local museum too. Highly recommended as a first timer into the cityscape. I will come again ❤️.

Very nice. Going there is like going back in time. Not as crowded as the other castles. The surrounding view is very beautiful.

Wonderful ancient wooden structure, so rare to see one so old. Lots of very steep stairs, so best for reasonably fit people. Excellent interpretation of the history is in English and Japanese.

A magnificent and amazing castle in Japan. It's said that there are some heart-shaped stones hidden in the wall, but unfortunately, I couldn't find them.

I had a great time at this castle in November 2019. It's one of Japan's original castles and is really preserved well! So magestic and awe inspiring! One of Japan's National Treasures!

(castles visited 50+) Honestly this is a 5 star castle, but finding parking drove me nuts and this is the darkest castle (building) I have ever been in. I drove to this castle and I could not find parking. I drove towards the castle, and found what I thought was parking but all I saw was a big "exit" sign. Then there was no way to turn around so I had to drive around the entire castle again. And I get back to the same place and there is a super super tiny "p" sign with no indication in any language if it's an entrance or even for the castle. Parking was 500 and entrance was 600 something. Pretty pricey, but it was a cool castle. The castle park was nice. Lots to do in the area. The main building was great. But it was sooooooo dark. It made me feel like I was 100 years old, barely able to see anything inside. Squinting to read the information. But at least, unlike most castles they had multiple languages and lots of really interesting things I will leave for you to read about when you visit.

The castle architecture is wonderful. You can feel the history while climbing bu the stairs. The view of matsue city and lake Shinji from the top is distinguished.

It was awesome, lots of historical facts about this castle. Additionally there are two shrines that yiu can visit (and get your stamps). There are also people dressed in samurai armors that you can take pictures with. I highly recommend it.

Very beautiful place and castle. Great stone wall. Around the castle is also good, so Please walk around.

Fantastic place to visit with great Cherry Blossoms around the castle. Also, a different visit to the Matsue Castle it's self.

Definitely worth a visit during your stay in Matsue. Pretty grounds and the castle itself is stunning. I learnt a lot from the interpretation panels in the castle (most of which were in English too) and the views from the top floor were fantastic. I visited at 5pm on a Tuesday and it was not busy at all.

Good castle with exhibition inside the castle and if you're foreigner, it has a lot of discount price fee. Good staff, I really like the staff in front of the castle, they're so kind and friendly :) You can see around Matsue above the 6th floor of castle (360 surrounding)

 Matsue Castle, also known as the "Black Castle," stands as an extraordinary testament to Japan's rich heritage and serves as a gateway to the past. My recent visit to this magnificent castle left an indelible mark on my heart and has become one of the highlights of my travels. From the moment I set eyes on Matsue Castle's awe-inspiring silhouette, I was captivated. The castle's imposing black exterior, standing proudly against the backdrop of lush greenery and the serene waters of Lake Shinji, is a sight to behold. As I approached the castle grounds, the sense of anticipation grew, and I was transported back in time to an era filled with samurais, shoguns, and grandeur. Throughout the castle, I found engaging exhibits and informative displays that offered a glimpse into the castle's history. The artifacts, samurai armor, and weaponry on display provided a deeper understanding of the region's rich cultural heritage and the castle's significance in Japan's feudal past. Beyond the castle itself, the surrounding park grounds were a haven of tranquility. The moat that encircles the castle and the stone walls created an atmosphere of both beauty and defense, transporting me to a time of fortresses and battles. Lastly, I must commend the city of Matsue for its commitment to preserving this cultural treasure. The efforts made to maintain the castle's original splendor and the dedication to historical accuracy deserve applause. It is evident that Matsue Castle holds a special place in the hearts of locals, and their enthusiasm for sharing its history is contagious. Visiting Matsue Castle is not just an excursion; it is an immersive journey through time. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply someone seeking awe-inspiring sights, this castle will captivate your imagination and leave you with a deep appreciation for Japan's storied past. Matsue Castle is an absolute must-visit, and I cannot recommend it enough.

Sakura spots, great walk around.

A proper, original castle. Please visit if you have only previously seen the likes of Kumamoto, because this is the true experience. I came on the night of a lantern festival and the whole grounds were magical.

One of the few remaining intact castles in Japan, and a national heritage site, this structure has ambiance that other castles in Japan doesn't. A must see for history buffs.