With Japan’s fifth largest lake,
Lake Nakaumi, and seventh largest lake,
Lake Shinji, to the east and west sides of the city, as well as the
Sea of Japan to the north, Matsue is bordered by three bodies of water. However, the title Mizu-no-Miyako (City of Water) is also due to its water scenery within the city. The
Ohashi River, bisecting the city centre, flows from Lake Shinji to Lake Nakaumi, and canals have been integrated in the north and south sides of the city centre since its earliest days. Most notably, the moats around the castle remain largely unchanged, and the
Horikawa Sightseeing Boat is one of the most quintessential views of Matsue.
You can also take a
Sunset cruise to enjoy the famous evening scenery of Lake Shinji, or enjoy the quaint view of
shijimi clam fishers on their boats in the morning. Both lakes are included on the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance, as they are home to many migratory birds in winter. Also, Matsue is home to many natural hot springs [See
Enjoy Matsue].
VISIT MATSUE
