[2025 Matsue Attraction] Travel Guide for Lake Shinji (Updated Jul)

I went to Izumo Taisha Shrine in Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture. Jinji, where the gods are enshrined, had a very solemn atmosphere. It is also the starting point of the Izumo Ekiden! Next, I returned to Matsue City and went to Lake Shinji. It is pronounced Shinjiko. This is a famous spot for sunsets, and on this day many photographers were waiting with their cameras. There are also restaurants in the city where you can enjoy the seven foods found in Lake Shinji, known as the Seven Treasures of Lake Shinji. There were also many shells of clams, one of the seven treasures, lying on the ground! Lake Shinji is a truly beautiful spot for sunsets, so let's clear our minds at Izumo Taisha Shrine and prepare to be moved by the sunset! #Free Spot #Retro Streetscape

Lake Shinji (Shinjiko) is the seventh largest lake in Japan, located in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture. It is renowned nationwide as a stunning sunset spot. Particularly, the "Lake Shinji Sunset Spot" has been selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Sunset Views, where the lake's surface turns a mesmerizing golden hue, leaving visitors in awe 🌇🌊. During the day, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakeside or relax at a café while gazing at the lake, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Renting a bicycle to explore the area is also a great option, with attractions like the Shinji Lake Bridge, Shirakata Park, and the Shinjiko Shijimi-kan offering delightful stops 🚲🍃. The lake's specialty is "shijimi clams." The Yamato shijimi clams harvested from Lake Shinji are famous nationwide, and local restaurants serve exquisite dishes such as shijimi clam soup and shijimi pasta 🍽️🐚. In winter, migratory birds gather at the lake, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching in a nature-rich environment 🦆📸. At dusk, take a seat on a bench by the lake and quietly immerse yourself in the changing colors of the sky and scenery. It will surely become an unforgettable memory. 📍Access: A 15-minute walk from JR Matsue Station or a short bus ride to "Kencho-mae" 🕰 Viewing is free; the best time is 30 minutes before sunset 🎟 Lakeside strolls and viewing are free of charge.

📅 Itinerary: Matsue City is quite small, but if you enjoy a peaceful retreat, a stroll around Lake Shinji will be more than satisfying. Every spot along the way offers great photo opportunities, especially at sunset when you can head to the Shinji Lake Bridge or the nearby art museum to capture the westward view. 🏨 Accommodation Recommendation: Naniwa Issui - Offers stunning lake views, elegant rooms, and friendly, professional service.

📍Travel Introduction - Discover a walking course in Matsue City, home to the National Treasure Matsue Castle. You can take the Lake Line Bus, which runs every 30 minutes from Matsue Station, or enjoy a leisurely stroll on foot. We recommend combining walking with bus rides for a more convenient experience. 🚩Travel Route - You can reach Matsue via direct flights to Yonago Airport or by bus from Hiroshima (approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes). Alternatively, take the Yakumo Limited Express train from Okayama (about 2 hours and 30 minutes). Explore Matsue Castle and Lake Shinji as the main attractions, and enjoy sightseeing around the nearby streets and buildings. A ride on the sightseeing boat is also a great option. 🏖️Landmark - Matsue Castle 🚇Transportation - JR trains, express buses 📷Photo Spots - Horikawa Sightseeing Boat, Samurai Street, Lake Shinji Sunset 🍜Recommended Restaurants - Hotel Ichibata Lounge 🏠Recommended Accommodation - Hotel Ichibata 💡Important Notes - Like most tourist spots in Japan, attractions generally close around 5 PM. Evening sightseeing is not possible. That's all. Thank you.

#summervacay From Tottori to Yonago and finally Matsue— Without a doubt, Matsue is my favorite. As soon as I arrived, I felt relaxed. The city is small but comforting, clean streets, beautiful buildings, and not too many people. Everything slows down here. 📍【Getting to Matsue】 I came from Yonago via the Sanin Line. The ride costs ¥510 and offers lovely scenery along the way—just sit back and enjoy the view. 📍【Matsue Castle & Nearby Spots】 Matsue Castle is one of the 12 original castles remaining in Japan—classic and majestic. Entry: ¥800 for the castle alone, or ¥1,440 for a combined ticket (Matsue Castle + Lafcadio Hearn Memorial Museum + Buke Yashiki Samurai Residence). These three sites are close to each other and easy to visit together. I didn’t go inside this time, but just strolling around was enjoyable. You’ll even see some stray cats lounging by the castle walls—such a local vibe. 📍【Shimane Art Museum】 Located on the shore of Lake Shinji (Shinjiko), it’s one of the best sunset-viewing spots in the area. The museum is peaceful and beautifully curated. Tickets start at ¥300. Come in the late afternoon—wander the galleries, then step outside to watch the golden sunset reflecting off the water. Truly magical. 📍Tips: Matsue is perfect for a slow-paced overnight stay. Public transport is limited and a bit slow, so renting a bike or planning your route ahead is a good idea. Grab a free map from the tourist info center at Matsue Station or near the castle—it makes everything easier. 📸 Where to take beautiful photos: ✔ The moat and streets around Matsue Castle ✔ The tranquil Japanese gardens near Lafcadio Hearn’s former residence ✔ Sunset over Lake Shinji from the museum’s glass facade If you’re craving a slower kind of travel, come to Matsue. It’s not packed with tourists, but it has just the right amount of peace and charm. #MatsueTravel #ShimanePrefecture

#cityplaybook #stunningview #familytrip #localguides Nestled in Shimane Prefecture, Matsue is a tranquil city where myth, history, and natural beauty converge. Known as the “City of Water,” it sits between Lake Shinji and Nakaumi Lagoon, with canals weaving through its streets, offering a serene atmosphere steeped in tradition. 🏯 Matsue Castle – A National Treasure Matsue Castle is one of Japan’s few remaining original wooden castles, constructed between 1607 and 1611. Its black-lacquered exterior and panoramic views from the top make it a must-visit. The surrounding park is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season. 🌸 Cultural and Spiritual Sites Lafcadio Hearn Memorial Museum: Dedicated to the writer who introduced Japanese culture to the West, the museum offers insights into his life and works. Yaegaki Shrine: This shrine is associated with matchmaking and love, attracting visitors seeking blessings for relationships. Meimei-an Tea House: Built in 1779, this tea house reflects the Fumai-ryu style of tea ceremony, offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese hospitality. 🌿 Gardens and Natural Beauty Yuushien Garden: Located on Daikon Island, this garden is renowned for its peony displays and seasonal beauty. Lake Shinji: Famous for its stunning sunsets, the lake offers pleasure cruises that showcase the area's natural splendor. 🛀 Relaxation and Hot Springs Tamatsukuri Onsen: This hot spring area is known for its healing waters and has been a destination for relaxation since ancient times. 📍 Location Matsue is located in Shimane Prefecture, part of the Chugoku region in southwest Japan. 📅 Best Time to Visit Spring (March–May) for cherry blossoms and autumn (October–November) for vibrant foliage are ideal times to experience Matsue's natural beauty. 📝 Travel Tips Consider purchasing a Matsue City Pass for convenient access to major attractions. Many sites are within walking distance; comfortable footwear is recommended. Local cuisine, such as shijimi clam dishes from Lake Shinji, offers a taste of the region's flavors. #MatsueCastle #CityOfWater #HiddenJapan #ShimaneTravel #JapaneseHeritage #LakeShinji #YuushienGarden #TamatsukuriOnsen #LafcadioHearn #YaegakiShrine

#cityplaybook #localguides #postandearn #familytrip Matsue, the capital of Shimane Prefecture, might not be the most talked-about destination in Japan, but that’s precisely why I fell in love with it. It’s peaceful, deeply historic, and kissed by the natural beauty of Lake Shinji and surrounding rivers. Here, I found the quiet charm of a city that values its samurai roots while embracing a poetic lakeside rhythm. My journey began at Matsue Castle, one of the few original feudal castles remaining in Japan. Unlike many reconstructions, this one dates back to 1611 and still exudes the power and elegance of the Edo era. Climbing to the top, I was rewarded with panoramic views of the city and lake. The grounds were especially breathtaking during cherry blossom season. Just a short stroll away is the Samurai District, where I wandered cobbled streets and visited preserved residences. One highlight was the Lafcadio Hearn Memorial Museum, dedicated to the Greek-Irish writer who adopted Matsue as his home and wrote extensively about Japanese folklore. His former residence next door offered a fascinating window into his life. Matsue is also a city of water. A boat cruise through its network of canals is a must. With the traditional wooden roofs of the boats and low stone bridges, the experience felt like slipping through time. The Lake Shinji sunset is legendary—golden light spreads across the still water, creating one of the most peaceful scenes I’ve ever witnessed. Best Time to Visit: March–April for cherry blossoms. October–November for autumn colors and cooler temperatures. Tips: Try Shijimi clam soup—a local specialty sourced from Lake Shinji. Don’t miss the peaceful Gessho-ji Temple, home to mossy paths and giant stone turtles. Location: Matsue, Shimane Prefecture, Japan #MatsueMagic #LakeShinjiSunset #MatsueCastle #JapanSamuraiTrail #HiddenJapan #ShimaneSecrets #LafcadioHearn #CanalCruiseJapan #SereneJapan #TravelMatsue Matsue whispered stories of samurai, sunsets, and still waters—inviting me to slow down, listen, and simply be.

#MarchGoodPlaces2025 Standing on the shore of Lake Shinji, the beautiful scenery before your eyes is breathtaking. 🌅 The lake is like a mirror, reflecting the changes in the sky, from the glimmer of dawn to the orange and red of sunset, every moment is like a flowing painting. There is no noise here, only the sound of the breeze blowing across the lake, making people forget their worries in an instant. Lake Shinji is the seventh largest lake in Japan, with rich natural ecology and a long historical background. According to legend, this place was once the stage for myths, but now it has become a holy place for travelers looking for tranquility. The trails along the lake are suitable for walking or cycling, and you can enjoy the changing scenery along the way. The cherry blossoms in spring and the red leaves in autumn add a touch of poetry to the lake. Looking at the tourists coming and going, everyone has different stories and expectations, but they find the same touch here. Perhaps, this is the charm of Lake Shinji - it is not only a lake, but also a spiritual sustenance. 💖 #Shinjiko #JapanTravel #NaturalBeauty #SpiritualJourney #LakesandMountains

#HotPlacesInJapan Located at Lake Shinjimisaki in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture, this museum has the themes of "an art museum in harmony with water" and "an art museum enveloped in the sunset." The building has a wavy curve and a beautiful lake spreads out before you. It is inspired by the "beach" that connects the water surface and the land. The designer, Kikutake Kiyonori, has worked on the architecture of many art galleries and museums. °•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•° •°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°• 🔹Permanent Exhibition Shimane Art Museum has a collection of about 3,000 ukiyo-e prints. From the Katsushika Hokusai Collection, which has about 1,600 pieces, about 40 pieces of Hokusai's prints and original paintings are on display (all pieces are replaced approximately once a month). °•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•° •°•°•°•°•°• There are many corners that you can enjoy even without a ticket 🆓Art Library You can browse art-related books 🆓Kids Library A space where parents and children can relax while reading picture books 🆓Outdoor Sculptures Sculptures are installed on the premises, including in outdoor parks °•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•° •°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°• 🔹Opening hours October to February 10:00 to 18:30 (Entry to the exhibition room is until 18:00) March to September 10:00 to 30 minutes after sunset (Entry to the exhibition room is until sunset) °•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°• Access 📍〒690-0049 1-5 Sodeshi-cho, Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture 📍About 4km from Matsue Nishi IC on the San'in Expressway, about 10 minutes Museum parking lot (230 cars) is free for up to 3 hours 📍About 2km from JR Matsue Station, about 10 minutes by bus About 1km on foot, about 15 minutes 📍About 2km from Matsue Shinjiko Onsen Station, about 15 minutes by bus About 1.5km on foot, about 20 minutes #Domestic travel #Solo travel #Shimane #Shimane sightseeing #Matsue #Lake Shinji #Shimane Museum of Art

📍Shimane Prefecture I went around Shimane Prefecture for two days and one night. I'll introduce the spots I visited by train in order. ⚫︎Lake Shinji Cafe A cafe that opens at the time the sun sets☕️ Please check the "sunset index" announced by the Matsue Tourism Association every day Opening hours: Days with beautiful sunsets/irregular Access: JR Matsue Station, about 20 minutes on foot There is an official Instagram, so be sure to check it out if you're interested ⚫︎Cotton Highway Hirata flourished as a market town for cotton distribution during the Edo and Meiji periods. You can enjoy local gourmet food and history while walking through the nostalgic streets🍡 Access: Unshu Hirata Station, on foot ⚫︎Izumo Taisha Shrine The size of the shimenawa is more impressive than in the photo. Actually, I had mistaken the worship hall for the kagura hall at first, so I thought it was small in real life, but I was wrong. The kagura hall is next to the worship hall. Please be careful if you are going for the first time or if you don't have a guidebook with you. #ShimanePrefecture #ShimaneTourism #DomesticTravel #FreeHotelAccommodation

#1月好去地方2025 The rented parent-child cooperative car is equipped with a "sunset bell". The boss winked: "When you hear the jingle, you must sprint with all your strength to catch the tail of the sun!" When the lake surface gradually changed from orange-red to purple-gold, Xiaoxun suddenly shouted: "There are gold coins flashing in the water!" "That's a clam shell," the father braked to take a photo, but found that his daughter in the back seat had already jumped into the shallows to "pan for gold" and picked up a hand full of clams: "It's more cost-effective than catching goldfish at the temple fair!"

During my days traveling in Matsue, my mood was as changeable as the clouds, sometimes excited, sometimes disappointed. Whenever Matsue is mentioned, what comes to mind is not the famous Matsue Castle, but the sunset of Lake Shinji—a magnificent scene praised by many poets. The sunset is said to be one of the most beautiful in all of Japan, making one eager to experience that awe-inspiring moment in person. I always remember that the local government announces the exact time of the sunset every day, and this moment attracts many tourists to take boats out on the lake, hoping to encounter the sunset. Unfortunately, the schedule of this trip did not allow me to stay for that beautiful moment. I felt immense regret, imagining how stunning the scene would be with the sunset painting the entire lake red under a clear sky. Even more captivating is the reflection of the clouds, which is said to make the sunset of Lake Shinji even more enchanting. Although I did not witness it with my own eyes, I have already painted that beautiful scene in my mind. Since the Meiji era, the sunset of Lake Shinji has been renowned, and today, tourists still flock to witness that fleeting yet precious moment. Here, the Matsue city government has even set up special chairs and photo areas for sunset viewing, allowing people to quietly enjoy this beauty. The Shimane Prefectural Art Museum is also built on the lakeshore, with glass walls that allow every visitor to appreciate the afterglow of the sunset from inside the museum. Unfortunately, I missed that moment, and my heart is filled with regret. Even so, I still felt the charm of this city. Walking into the museum, I was captivated by the water-related artworks in the exhibition rooms, as if they were telling the story of Lake Shinji. The design of the museum also fully considers the beauty of the lakeside, with each window like a carefully framed picture. Although I was unable to witness that picturesque sunset, this journey made me deeply yearn for Matsue. Perhaps, on my next visit, I can sit quietly by Lake Shinji, waiting for that moment to arrive, letting my soul be truly released under the sunset. This expectation will become an eternal memory in my heart.

Explore the Rare Ancient City and Visit the Enchanting Spiritual Shrines at ⛩️ Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture, Chugoku Region . Matsue City (松江), a cultural tourism city that holds significant historical ties with the Japanese people from Matsue Castle and Izumo Taisha Shrine. Most tourists who visit from nearby cities usually come to stroll around, take boat rides to enjoy the scenery, and visit the old castle for photos. If you're looking for a place to follow the trails of Japanese culture and enjoy peaceful nature, don't miss it. . Personally, I recommend planning a trip to Matsue City along with an overnight stay in Hiroshima or Okayama, which are neighboring prefectures, for more convenient travel. . 📌 Recommended attractions in Matsue City ・Matsue Castle ・Yuushien Garden ・Lake Shinji ・Matsue Vogel Park ・Etomo Port ・Yaegaki Shrine (八重垣神社) ・Matsue Jozan Park ・Matsue History Museum ・Horikawa Sightseeing Boat ・Kaka Kukedo Sightseeing Boat

📖 Coffee House is a local cafe in the Sanin region, and all of its stores have a great view, perhaps because they are particular about the location of their stores. The Kohoku store is the first store that began operating in 1981. The photo shows a sunset in February 🌇, but because it is located along Lake Shinji, you can enjoy the lake in all four seasons all year round. . 🍰 As it is a local store famous for its desserts, some of the desserts sell out quickly. So it is recommended to come early, even if you just want to see the sunset ❤️ . 📍 Coffee House (Kohoku store) Address: 1044-1 Hamasada-cho, Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture #Shimane Prefecture #Matsue Cafe

I went to see the sunset at Lake Shinji in Matsue, Shimane Prefecture! 🌅✨ The sunset at Lake Shinji is so beautiful that it was selected as one of the 100 most beautiful views in Japan, and the orange gradation reflected on the lake surface soothes the fatigue of the day. 😭✨The sunset was so beautiful that I forgot about time and was moved. Combined with the lakeside scenery, it has a romantic atmosphere and is also popular as a date spot. 💑 I went with a friend🤣 📍Location Lake Shinji〚Kishi Park〛 1 Sodeshi-cho, Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture 690-0049 ⚠️Notes It is recommended to visit at the time when the sun sets, but the surrounding roads and parking lots may be crowded during sunset, so we recommend leaving a little earlier. How to get there 🚃𓈒𓂂𓏸Train: About 15 minutes by car from JR Matsue Station. Car 🚗 ³₃: About 30 minutes by car from Izumo Airport. Price Sunset spots and strolls along the lakeside are free Sunsets vary depending on the season, but in summer they are usually around 18:30-19:00, and in winter they are around 16:30-17:00. The sunset over Lake Shinji is a relaxing moment to end the day. Be sure to go and see this memorable sunset! 🌅✨ #0yentrip #shimanetourism #shimaneprefecture #shimanetrip #sunsetspots #domestictravel

#Japanese and Korean Spring Good Places Songjiang sunset Rating: ️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(5⭐️highest score) Address: Shimane Prefecture, Japan, by Lake Shinchi (15 minutes’ walk from JR Matsue Station) 💰Free attractions The sunset seen in Songjiang is full of fantasy and changeable colors, making people feel like they are in a fairy tale. It is an unforgettable experience😍😍😍 The best place to watch the sunset is on the shores of Lake Shinji. It takes about 15 minutes to walk from JR Matsue Station. During this period, you will pass by residential buildings, and finally cross the zebra crossing to the Shimane Prefectural Museum of Art. The museum is equipped with a row of floor-to-ceiling glass and faces Lake Shinji. Visitors can sit in the air-conditioned museum. Benches inside to watch the sunset. In Shore Park in front of the art museum, there is a cute rabbit sculpture on the grass, which is very suitable for checking in. I was in Shore Park that day, admiring the colorful clouds in the sky under the sunset, and the breeze blowing on my face, which was very comfortable🥰🥰🥰 After sitting in the shore park for a while, we walked along the lakeside trail of Lake Shinji. There are many unique artworks and statues to view along the way. Watch the sparkling lake surface and appreciate the changes in the sky at different times. In other places in Japan, I have never seen such a colorful sunset 🌅 What a rich visual experience! It is a must-see attraction in Shimane Prefecture💖💕❤️💖💕❤️ #日韩春Good Places #Japanese Attractions #Japanese Sunset #Japanese Must Go Check-in Point #Weekend Tour #trip #like #travel #Japanese Attractions #Romantic #Kishi Park #Shindo Lake #Shimane Prefecture #Japan China Region