Cover photo by 琴音
Matsue City in Shimane Prefecture is a city where beautiful nature and historical architecture blend seamlessly, earning it the nickname 'City of Water.' Whether it's the evening views of Lake Shinji, the charming castle town, or the magical night events, every season offers a picturesque scene worth capturing.
This time, we introduce seven carefully selected photo spots you must visit in Matsue.
Breathtaking Views from the Castle Tower: 'National Treasure Matsue Castle'
Photo by morissy
Matsue Castle, a symbol of Matsue, is one of the only 12 remaining original castles in Japan. Its distinctive black wooden exterior offers a heavy and impressive atmosphere perfect for photography. From the top floor of the castle tower, you can enjoy expansive views of Lake Shinji and the castle town, with particularly dramatic shots possible at sunrise or sunset.
Scenic Beauty by the Lake: 'Lake Shinji' Selected as One of Japan's Top 100 Sunsets
Photo by kazu
Lake Shinji, a natural landmark of Matsue, is also famous for its sunsets. The silhouette of 'Yomegashima' island against the sunset is a perfect photography spot. Start shooting before sunset and enjoy capturing the changing hues of light as time passes.
Lighting Up the Night Sky: 'Matsue Suigo Festival'
Photo by decomp3104
The 'Matsue Suigo Festival,' a summer tradition in Matsue, is known as one of the largest lake fireworks festivals in Western Japan. The reflection of fireworks on Lake Shinji's surface is truly a sight to behold. Use long exposure to capture the dynamic trails of fireworks. From the lakeside viewing spots, you can photograph both the fireworks and the nightscape of Matsue, creating a memorable summer shot.
Elegant Meiji Architecture: 'Kounkaku'
Kounkaku, a Western-style building within Matsue Castle Park, is a spot where you can enjoy portrait photography in a classical atmosphere. The view from the second-floor terrace is also superb, allowing for dramatic photos that make use of light.
A Small Island Floating on Crystal-Clear Sea: 'Katsurashima'
The area around Katsurashima, known for its strikingly blue sea, is attractive for its clear waters and beautiful rocky shores. The walkway leading to the island offers a fantastical location as if you're walking on water, and using a wide-angle lens can result in dynamic photos.
Matsue is a city where historical architecture, rich nature, and magical events blend together. Capture the unique expressions that change with time and season, and enjoy the full charm of Matsue with your camera!
