• Matsue Castle - Matsue Castle is a major attraction in Shimane. While Japan is home to many beautiful castles, most are reconstructions due to destruction by fires, earthquakes, or demolition by the Meiji government at the end of the feudal era. Matsue Castle, dating back to the early 1600s, is unique as it remains in its original form. For a small fee, visitors can ascend to the top level of the castle for breathtaking views of the city, making it a worthwhile experience.

• Izumo Grand Shrine - Izumo Taisha is a must-visit for those seeking a significant shrine. As one of Japan’s oldest and most important shrines, it attracts visitors who pray for love and good fortune. Unique to this shrine, people clap four times instead of the usual two, once for themselves and once for their partners. The shrine offers goshuin, a book for collecting shrine stamps, which serves as a wonderful souvenir for travelers in Japan.

• Adachi Museum of Art - The Adachi Museum of Art offers more than just pottery, paintings, and hanging scrolls; it boasts stunning gardens that consistently win awards as Japan’s best. Alongside the exquisite artwork and nature, two delightful teahouses on the premises offer matcha and Japanese sweets with scenic views.

• Shinji Lake - Ranking as Japan’s seventh-largest lake, Lake Shinji is ideal for watching the sunset over Matsue. Several boat companies offer evening cruises for those wishing to explore the lake’s natural beauty. Even if a sunset visit isn’t possible, the lake remains a beautiful sight at any time of day.

• Matsue Vogel Park - Home to one of the world’s largest greenhouses, Matsue Vogel Park features a garden with thousands of begonias and 800 unique bird specimens from around 80 species. Visitors can enjoy close encounters with birds and popular bird shows.

• Matsue Castle Town - Matsue Castle Town, a historic district around Matsue Castle in Shimane Prefecture, preserves the Edo period’s atmosphere with traditional streets, former samurai residences, and scenic waterways. Visitors can stroll through the town and experience the serene lifestyle of feudal Japan.

• Yuushien - Yushien is celebrated as one of Japan’s finest gardens, offering beauty in every season. Known for its stunning spring peonies, the gardens are also a popular spot for enjoying autumn’s changing leaves, or koyo. The grounds feature several restaurants where visitors can savor the views while dining.

• Inasa Beach - Inasanohama Beach is a must-visit for its unique and beautiful shrine. Located near Izumo Taisha Shrine, the beach features a large rock pillar with a shrine atop it, said to be the home of a female sea deity who watches over sailors.

• ぐるっと松江堀川めぐり大手前広場乗船場(殿町) - The Horikawa Sightseeing Boat

The Horikawa Sightseeing Boat offers a 50-minute cruise around the historic moat of Matsue Castle, providing a unique perspective of the town from the water. Seasonal scenery, such as spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, enhances the experience. The boat’s roof lowers when passing under low bridges, adding to the memorable journey.
※Please note that the boat ride fee (1,600 JPY/person) is not included in the tour fee.

• Meet up with guide on foot within designated area of Matsue
• Licensed Local English Speaking Guide
• Customizable Tour of your choice of 3-4 sites from ‘What to expect’ list

• Transportation fees, Entrance fees, Lunch, and Other personal expenses
• Private transportation
• You cannot combine multiple tour groups.
• Guide Entry fees are only covered for sights listed under What to Expect.

Embark on an enriching journey through Eastern Shimane with a seasoned, multilingual tour guide certified by the government. This trip, brimming with value, offers an excellent and productive means to explore the region!

Shimane prefecture, nestled in the southwestern facet of the major island of Honshu in Japan, is an ideal destination for travelers seeking unique and less trodden paths. The region is frequently bypassed by tourists, gravitating towards more mainstream attractions. Nevertheless, it houses an abundance of culture, nature, and history, offered without the burden of overwhelming crowds!

We welcome your input on what you wish to discover, and we will tailor a six-hour tour that suits your preferences!

Note1: To curate your personalized itinerary, kindly pick your preferred sights from the list outlined in the tour information.
Note2: The status of a National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter is granted by the Japanese government and it necessitates a substantial comprehension and knowledge of Japanese culture and history.

• This is a walking tour. Pick up is on foot.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.