The greatest attraction of Matsue Castle is that it still has a castle tower that still exists today, conveying the appearance of the castle from the time of its construction. It is one of only 12 castles with precious castle towers remaining in Japan, and as one of the five castles designated as national treasures, its historical value is extremely high. Inside the castle tower, materials related to the history of the castle's former lords and the structure of the castle are exhibited, and from the top floor you can enjoy a magnificent view of Matsue city and Lake Shinjiko. The exterior, characterized by its black walls, has a solid and heavy feel, but the chidori gables add elegance, and it is affectionately known as "Chidori Castle."

Around Matsue Castle, there is a "Horikawa Pleasure Boat" that tours the inner moat. As you are rocked on the boat, you can see the castle's stone walls, the samurai houses in the castle town, and the castle tower looking up from the waterside, which is an exceptional sight. You can enjoy the scenery of each season, and especially in the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, the scenery reflected on the water surface becomes even more beautiful. The boatman's humorous commentary is also fun, and it is a popular tourist activity that allows you to experience Matsue's history and culture. Honestly, if you visit Matsue Castle, I can say with confidence that the Horikawa sightseeing boat is an experience you cannot miss.

The area around the castle is full of attractions, such as the "Bukeyashiki (former residence of Matsue feudal lords)," where samurai residences from the Edo period remain, and the "Koizumi Yakumo Memorial Museum and Former Residence," which has a beautiful Japanese garden. By touring these places, you can get a deeper understanding of Matsue's history as a castle town and the lives of the people who lived there. Personally, while I am impressed by the grandeur of the castle tower, I can feel the multifaceted charm of Matsue Castle by looking up at the castle from the Horikawa sightseeing boat and enjoying the atmosphere of the castle town.

[Trivia]

- Matsue Castle's castle tower is said to be the only one in Japan that combines the traditional watchtower style and the multi-tiered tower style.

- In the basement of the castle tower, there is a rare room called the "salt tower" for storing salt.

- In winter, the Horikawa sightseeing boat becomes a "kotatsu boat" for a warm and comfortable ride.

[Hidden spot information]

"Kounkaku," located on the slope leading to the castle tower within the grounds of Matsue Castle, is a Western-style building built in the Meiji era and was once the residence of Emperor Meiji. The interior is currently open to the public for free, and you can feel the atmosphere of the Meiji era with its gorgeous chandeliers and furnishings. It tends to be hidden in the shadow of the castle tower, but it is worth a visit.