Top reasons to visit Matsue
- Matsue Castle: A historic landmark offering stunning architecture and beautiful views of the surrounding area.
- Cultural Festivals: Experience local traditions at events like the Matsue Castle Festival, showcasing the city's rich heritage.
- Hot Springs: Relax in traditional onsen, offering wellness retreats and rejuvenating experiences.
- Scenic Tours: Enjoy bus excursions that highlight Matsue's picturesque landscapes and historical sites.
- Charming Neighborhoods: Explore quaint streets filled with local shops, museums, and friendly faces.
Find great hotels in and around Matsue
Explore a variety of accommodation options in Matsue, Shimane Prefecture, where you can find both modern hotels and traditional ryokans. Whether you're seeking a relaxing hot spring experience, a soothing spa retreat, or a beach vacation, Matsue has something for every traveler. Enjoy the unique charm of this historic city while finding the perfect hotel to meet your needs.
- Onyado Nono Sakaiminato Natural Hot Spring: Onyado Nono Sakaiminato is a 3.5-star hotel that prides itself on providing a unique hot spring experience. Located 10km from Matsue, this property has received a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. The highlight of the stay here is the access to natural hot springs, offering a perfect retreat for relaxation. The hotel's hot spring amenities are onsite, allowing guests to immerse themselves in soothing waters after a day of exploration. This hotel caters to travelers seeking a tranquil environment combined with traditional Japanese hospitality.
- Dormy Inn Express Matsue: A 3-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, Dormy Inn Express Matsue is conveniently situated in the heart of Matsue. This property offers a range of dining options, including both buffet and à la carte breakfast choices, ensuring a great start to your day. For entertainment, guests can enjoy a selection of modern amenities, including LCD televisions and DVD players. Dormy Inn Express is designed for comfort and convenience, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking to experience local culture while enjoying contemporary comforts.
- Toyoko Inn Matsue Ekimae: Toyoko Inn Matsue Ekimae is a budget-friendly 3-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, located near the Matsue station. This property stands out for its complimentary breakfast options, including a buffet, allowing guests to fuel up without added costs. In-room entertainment features a television, making it easy to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Toyoko Inn offers a practical and straightforward lodging experience for those who prioritize value and convenience during their stay in Matsue.
Where to stay in Matsue
Matsue, a charming city in Shimane Prefecture, invites you to explore its rich cultural heritage and outdoor adventures. Experience the historical vibe while wandering through its picturesque neighborhoods. Don't miss the upcoming events that showcase local traditions and friendly people. From serene parks to exciting excursions, Matsue offers a perfect blend of wellness and adventure, making it an ideal destination for your next vacation in Japan.
- Matsue Shinjiko Onsen: Nestled in the heart of Matsue, Matsue Shinjiko Onsen is renowned for its rejuvenating hot springs and tranquil atmosphere. This neighborhood offers a unique blend of culture and wellness, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking relaxation and outdoor experiences. Visitors can indulge in the soothing onsen baths while enjoying picturesque views of Lake Shinjiko. The area is dotted with historic sites, making it an excellent spot for culture enthusiasts. With a peak in visitors during the warmer months, especially August and the fall season, Matsue Shinjiko Onsen provides an inviting experience year-round.
- Mihokan Onsen: Located just a short distance from Matsue, Mihokan Onsen is a charming village that offers a romantic escape with its serene onsen facilities. Known for its wellness-focused activities, this village is perfect for couples and individuals looking to unwind. Visitors can explore local stores or enjoy educational experiences, all while surrounded by the area's rich history and natural beauty. Similar to Matsue Shinjiko, Mihokan Onsen sees a surge in travelers during August and the autumn months, making it a popular getaway for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
- Shinji: Shinji, another quaint village in the Matsue area, is celebrated for its outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore local shrines and historic places while enjoying the region's stunning landscapes. Shinji offers various educational activities and local stores, adding a unique flavor to your travel experience. The area attracts visitors year-round, with peak seasons in the late summer and fall, providing a wonderful setting for those looking to immerse themselves in Japan's rich culture and wellness traditions.
Things to do in Matsue
Shopping
Matsue offers charming shopping experiences at local markets like Matsue Castle Town and the Shimane Prefectural Museum of Ancient Izumo. If you're up for a drive, visit the larger Izumo City Mall for a wider selection of shops, including fashion and electronics.
Recreation
Immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere at Kiyomizu Onsen, where you can soak in natural hot springs surrounded by serene landscapes. For a refreshing outdoor experience, take a leisurely stroll along Lake Shinji, enjoying the calming views and the gentle breeze while connecting with nature.
Adventure
Matsue Castle, a stunning historical landmark, offers an exciting journey through Japan's feudal past. Explore the castle grounds and take in panoramic views of the city from the top. For a unique experience, try kayaking on Lake Shinji, surrounded by beautiful scenery and serene waters, perfect for adventure seekers.
Nightlife
Matsue offers a charming nightlife scene with cozy izakayas and vibrant bars. Visit the Matsue Castle area for a laid-back atmosphere, or explore the local pubs and karaoke spots for a more lively experience. Enjoy local sake and traditional dishes while mingling with friendly locals in this picturesque city.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Matsue
When planning your trip to Matsue, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January, March, and June for better rates. Book your hotel about a month in advance or check last-minute deals on Expedia for potential savings. Wednesdays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s tools to sort accommodations by price and filter for eco-friendly options. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal can help maximize your savings. Explore free local attractions to stretch your budget further.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Matsue are January, March and June, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August and October to November, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Matsue is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Matsue is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Matsue is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool offers you the flexibility to choose your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can easily sort the results to display accommodations from the lowest to highest prices, allowing you to find the most affordable options first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Matsue with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Matsue
Matsue, located in Shimane Prefecture, is perfect for cultural, wellness, and outdoor vacations. Visitors can explore iconic attractions like Matsue Castle, a historic landmark, as well as the local museums and hot springs. The Matsue International Tourist Information Office can assist with planning your family-friendly activities in this charming city, ensuring a memorable experience filled with rich culture and scenic beauty.
- Tamatsukuri Hot Spring: Enjoy a rejuvenating experience at Tamatsukuri Hot Spring, where you can soak in soothing outdoor baths surrounded by serene nature. This spot is perfect for unwinding and embracing wellness in a tranquil setting.
- Shimane University Old Okudani Lodging: Step back in time at Shimane University Old Okudani Lodging, a historic house that reflects the rich culture of the area. Explore its traditional architecture and learn about its significance in Matsue’s educational history.
- Mt. Makuragi-san: Embark on an adventure at Mt. Makuragi-san, where hiking trails lead you through breathtaking scenery and lush landscapes. Experience the thrill of outdoor exploration while taking in stunning views from the summit.
Best time to go to Matsue
The best time to visit Matsue is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Matsue
Traveling to Matsue, Shimane Prefecture, is convenient with several major airports nearby. Izumo Airport (IZO) is the closest, located 32km away, with excellent hotel options like Hoshino Resorts KAI Tamatsukuri and Hotel Gyokusen, both about 11km from the airport. TAKamatsu Airport (TAK) is 174km away and offers hotels such as Kiyomi Sanso Hanajukai and JR Hotel Clement Takamatsu, both 14km from the airport. Okayama Airport (OKJ), situated 114km from Matsue, features hotels like Hotel Granvia Okayama and ANA Crowne Plaza Okayama, roughly 13km away. Transportation services include transfers and shuttles from hotels near Izumo Airport.