The Matsue Castle Festival runs from March 27th to April 10th, drawing visitors despite the cherry blossoms not being fully bloomed. Sightseers enjoy the castle’s scenic views while children play in the grounds. Locals indulge in sake under cherry blossoms, accompanied by traditional music
Matsue—The Matsue Castle Festival, known as Oshiro Matsuri, has been ongoing since March 27th (until April 10th). Although the cherry blossoms are not in full bloom, they still attract numerous sightseers, heralding the arrival of spring in Matsue, the capital city of Shimane Prefecture.
While some visitors enjoyed the breathtaking landscape from the castle tower, others immersed themselves in the ambience of the once-impregnable fortress, now a popular tourist site, and kids enjoyed playing at the various attractions within the castle grounds on March 30th.
Meanwhile, locals savoured sake and snacks under the cherry blossoms, accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of energetic taiko drums and bamboo flutes, emblematic of Matsue’s culture.
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| Transportation | Time required | Distance | Fee | Remarks |
| Walking | About 30 minutes | About 2.4km | Free | From Matsue Station, cross Shin-Ohashi Bridge, go through Kaji-bashi and Kencho-mae intersection, and arrive at Matsue Castle Otemon Gate |
| Bus | About 10 minutes | About 2.1km | 200 yen | From Matsue Station, take the Lake Line Bus and get off at Matsue Castle “Otemae” |
| Taxi | About 8 minutes | About 2.3km | About 1,000 yen | The taxi fare from Matsue Station to Matsue Castle is about 1,000 yen |
| Private car | About 10 minutes | About 3.5km | Parking fee only | There are some paid parking lots around Matsue Castle |
How to get to Matsue Castle