For those seeking an authentic experience away from the crowded streets of Japan’s popular tourist spots, Shimane Prefecture offers a glimpse into the country’s untouched beauty. While Tokyo continues to draw in the majority of international visitors, Shimane, located on Japan’s western coast, remains one of its least explored areas, receiving only a fraction of the foot traffic. Yet for the adventurous traveler, this region presents a hidden slice of Japan’s history and culture, untouched by the rush of modernization.
About 600 kilometers from Tokyo lies Matsue, Shimane’s capital. Though smaller in population—around 200,000 people—Matsue is a city of deep historical significance. It is home to one of Japan’s oldest and most fascinating landmarks, Matsue Castle. This grand structure, completed in the early 17th century, is one of the last remaining original castles from Japan’s feudal period. Its status as a National Treasure, granted in 2015, speaks to its importance and rarity in the context of Japan’s cultural history.
Matsue Castle’s story dates back to 1607, when the feudal lord Horio Yoshiharu began its construction. The castle, completed in 1612, stood not only as a symbol of power but as a fortress designed for defense. Surrounded by moats and a carefully planned infrastructure of roads, the castle was a key military stronghold during the Edo period. Much of this original structure was lost during Japan’s modernization phase in the Meiji era, but the central keep remains, preserving the castle’s aura of timelessness.
Situated atop a hill, Matsue Castle commands impressive views of the city below, while its towering presence evokes the grandeur of Japan’s feudal past. Unlike the often-reconstructed castles found in more tourist-heavy cities, Matsue Castle has preserved its authenticity, and its age only adds to its charm.
For those who explore its wooden interiors, Matsue Castle is a sensory experience. Visitors can feel the textures of centuries-old wood beneath their feet as they navigate its narrow corridors. Light filters through small, strategically placed openings originally meant for archers, casting shadows that transform the castle’s six stories into a quietly dramatic setting.
Matsue, however, is only a part of the larger story of Shimane Prefecture. From its serene lakes and stunning coastlines to its lesser-known temples and shrines, the region offers a different side of Japan. For travelers ready to step away from the well-worn paths of Kyoto or Tokyo, Shimane is a region waiting to be uncovered.
