Matsue Shi Travel Guide - Complete Japan Destination

Matsue Shi Matsue is the capital city of Shimane Prefecture, Japan, located in the Chūgoku region of Honshu. As of 31 March 2023, the city had an estimated population of 196,748 in 91287 households and a population density of 340 persons per km². The total area of the city is 572.99 square kilometres (221.23 sq mi). Matsue is home to the Tokugawa-era Matsue Castle, one of the last surviving feudal castles in Japan.

Matsue Shi is situated in Shimane, within Japan, representing a distinctive destination with its own unique character, cultural heritage, and community identity. The area offers visitors and residents alike a comprehensive range of local attractions, community amenities, cultural experiences, and regional significance that contribute to its reputation as a noteworthy destination within Japan.

Matsue Shi is positioned at coordinates 35.48°, 133.06°, home to approximately 201,802 residents, contributing to its distinctive geographic profile, demographic characteristics, and environmental setting. These fundamental characteristics influence the local climate, community development patterns, economic activities, and overall visitor experience, creating a unique sense of place that distinguishes Matsue Shi from other destinations in the region.

Visitors to Matsue Shi can explore numerous aspects that make this Japan destination particularly noteworthy, including its rich local heritage, vibrant community life, diverse cultural attractions, significant regional importance, and authentic local experiences. The area provides extensive opportunities for cultural exploration, community engagement, historical discovery, and appreciation of local traditions alongside contemporary developments and innovations.

The community of Matsue Shi welcomes visitors with a combination of historical authenticity, cultural richness, and modern amenities that create memorable experiences for travelers seeking to understand and appreciate the distinctive character of Japan destinations. Whether interested in historical heritage, geographic features, cultural experiences, community life, or regional exploration, Matsue Shi offers multiple perspectives and opportunities for meaningful engagement with local traditions, contemporary developments, and community values.

History and Heritage

The historical development and cultural heritage of Matsue Shi encompass a rich tapestry of events, influences, and traditions that have shaped the community's identity over time. Understanding the historical context provides valuable insights into the forces that have contributed to the contemporary character of Matsue Shi. The preservation and interpretation of historical heritage remains an important priority for the community, ensuring that future generations can appreciate and learn from the experiences of those who came before. Historical research and documentation efforts continue to uncover new information about the development of Matsue Shi, adding depth and nuance to our understanding of the community's evolution.

History City view from Matsue Castle, 2019 Matsue is located within ancient Izumo Province and there are many archaeological sites from the Yayoi, Kofuns and Nara periods within the city borders. This aspect of Matsue Shi represents a significant element in understanding the community's character and development. The information provides valuable insights into the distinctive features that define Matsue Shi within its regional context. Understanding these characteristics helps visitors and residents appreciate the unique qualities that make Matsue Shi a noteworthy destination.

The area was also the stronghold of the Amago clan during the Sengoku period. The development and evolution of these features in Matsue Shi reflect broader patterns of growth and change in the region. Local residents and community leaders have worked to preserve and enhance these important aspects of Matsue Shi's identity. Visitors to Matsue Shi can observe how these elements contribute to the overall atmosphere and character of the community. The ongoing maintenance and development of these features demonstrate the community's commitment to preserving its distinctive identity.

The present-day castle town of Matsue was originally established by Horio Yoshiharu, lord of the Matsue clan, when he built Matsue castle and planned the surrounding town over a five-year period from 1607 to 1611. Matsue continued to be the seat of Matsue Domain under the Tokugawa shogunate until the Meiji restoration. The broader context of Matsue Shi within its regional setting provides additional perspective on these important characteristics. Community members and visitors alike benefit from understanding how these elements fit into the larger picture of Matsue Shi's development. The integration of these features with other aspects of community life creates a comprehensive picture of what makes Matsue Shi unique. Ongoing research and documentation help preserve knowledge about these important aspects of Matsue Shi for future generations.

In contemporary Matsue Shi, these characteristics continue to play an important role in community life and development. Modern residents of Matsue Shi work to balance preservation of traditional elements with adaptation to changing needs and circumstances. The community's approach to managing these aspects reflects a thoughtful consideration of both historical significance and future requirements. Visitors to Matsue Shi can observe how the community successfully integrates respect for its heritage with progressive planning for the future. This balance between tradition and innovation represents one of the defining characteristics of modern Matsue Shi.

For visitors exploring Matsue Shi, these elements provide opportunities for meaningful engagement with the community's distinctive character. The accessibility and presentation of these features make it possible for tourists and other visitors to gain authentic insights into Matsue Shi. Local guides and community members often share additional information that enhances the visitor experience in Matsue Shi. The community's welcoming approach to tourism ensures that visitors can appreciate these aspects while respecting local customs and preferences. Many visitors to Matsue Shi report that understanding these elements significantly enriches their overall experience of the destination.

Looking toward the future, Matsue Shi continues to develop strategies for maintaining and enhancing these important community characteristics. Community planning processes in Matsue Shi regularly consider how to preserve essential elements while accommodating growth and change. The involvement of residents in these planning discussions ensures that future development in Matsue Shi reflects community values and priorities. Sustainable approaches to managing these aspects help ensure that future generations will be able to appreciate and benefit from them. The long-term vision for Matsue Shi includes continued attention to these foundational elements of community identity and character.

The historical heritage of Matsue Shi continues to serve as a foundation for community identity and pride, influencing contemporary development while preserving important connections to the past. Ongoing efforts to document, preserve, and interpret historical resources ensure that this heritage remains accessible and relevant for current and future residents of Matsue Shi. The integration of historical awareness into community planning and development helps maintain the distinctive character that makes Matsue Shi a unique and valued place to live and visit.

Geography and Location

The geographic setting and natural environment of Matsue Shi play fundamental roles in defining the community's character, development patterns, and relationship with the surrounding region. The physical characteristics of the landscape influence everything from settlement patterns to economic activities, creating a unique sense of place that distinguishes Matsue Shi from other communities. Environmental factors continue to shape daily life in Matsue Shi, affecting transportation, recreation, agriculture, and other important aspects of community life. The community's relationship with its natural environment reflects both practical considerations and deeper cultural values about stewardship and sustainability.

Geography Matsue is located at the northernmost point of Shimane Prefecture, between Lake Shinji and Nakaumi on the banks of the Ohashi River connecting the two lakes, though the city proper reaches the Sea of Japan coast. This aspect of Matsue Shi represents a significant element in understanding the community's character and development. The information provides valuable insights into the distinctive features that define Matsue Shi within its regional context. Understanding these characteristics helps visitors and residents appreciate the unique qualities that make Matsue Shi a noteworthy destination.

Matsue is the center of the Lake Shinji-Nakaumi metropolitan area, which has a population of approximately 600,000 in 2020. The development and evolution of these features in Matsue Shi reflect broader patterns of growth and change in the region. Local residents and community leaders have worked to preserve and enhance these important aspects of Matsue Shi's identity. Visitors to Matsue Shi can observe how these elements contribute to the overall atmosphere and character of the community. The ongoing maintenance and development of these features demonstrate the community's commitment to preserving its distinctive identity.

The Lake Shinji-Nakaumi metropolitan area is the fourth largest on the Sea of Japan coast after Niigata, Greater Kanazawa, and Fukui. #Climate Matsue has a humid subtropical climate (Köppen climate classification _Cfa_) with very warm summers and cool winters. The broader context of Matsue Shi within its regional setting provides additional perspective on these important characteristics. Community members and visitors alike benefit from understanding how these elements fit into the larger picture of Matsue Shi's development. The integration of these features with other aspects of community life creates a comprehensive picture of what makes Matsue Shi unique. Ongoing research and documentation help preserve knowledge about these important aspects of Matsue Shi for future generations.

In contemporary Matsue Shi, these characteristics continue to play an important role in community life and development. Modern residents of Matsue Shi work to balance preservation of traditional elements with adaptation to changing needs and circumstances. The community's approach to managing these aspects reflects a thoughtful consideration of both historical significance and future requirements. Visitors to Matsue Shi can observe how the community successfully integrates respect for its heritage with progressive planning for the future. This balance between tradition and innovation represents one of the defining characteristics of modern Matsue Shi.

For visitors exploring Matsue Shi, these elements provide opportunities for meaningful engagement with the community's distinctive character. The accessibility and presentation of these features make it possible for tourists and other visitors to gain authentic insights into Matsue Shi. Local guides and community members often share additional information that enhances the visitor experience in Matsue Shi. The community's welcoming approach to tourism ensures that visitors can appreciate these aspects while respecting local customs and preferences. Many visitors to Matsue Shi report that understanding these elements significantly enriches their overall experience of the destination.

Looking toward the future, Matsue Shi continues to develop strategies for maintaining and enhancing these important community characteristics. Community planning processes in Matsue Shi regularly consider how to preserve essential elements while accommodating growth and change. The involvement of residents in these planning discussions ensures that future development in Matsue Shi reflects community values and priorities. Sustainable approaches to managing these aspects help ensure that future generations will be able to appreciate and benefit from them. The long-term vision for Matsue Shi includes continued attention to these foundational elements of community identity and character.

The geographic advantages and natural characteristics of Matsue Shi remain fundamental to its development potential, environmental sustainability, and quality of life for residents and visitors. Geographic considerations continue to influence planning decisions, infrastructure development, and community growth strategies in Matsue Shi. The community's ongoing relationship with its natural environment reflects both practical needs and deeper values about environmental stewardship and sustainable development.

Climate and Weather

The climate patterns and weather conditions in Matsue Shi represent important factors in understanding the local environment, seasonal rhythms, and quality of life for residents and visitors. Weather patterns influence agricultural activities, outdoor recreation, tourism seasons, and many other aspects of community life in Matsue Shi. The community has developed various strategies for adapting to and making the most of local climate conditions, from seasonal festivals to infrastructure design. Understanding climate patterns helps visitors plan their activities and appreciate the seasonal variations that add richness to the Matsue Shi experience.

#Climate Matsue has a humid subtropical climate (Köppen climate classification Cfa) with very warm summers and cool winters. This aspect of Matsue Shi represents a significant element in understanding the community’s character and development. The information provides valuable insights into the distinctive features that define Matsue Shi within its regional context. Understanding these characteristics helps visitors and residents appreciate the unique qualities that make Matsue Shi a noteworthy destination.

Precipitation is abundant throughout the year, and is somewhat heavier in June, July and September. The development and evolution of these features in Matsue Shi reflect broader patterns of growth and change in the region. Local residents and community leaders have worked to preserve and enhance these important aspects of Matsue Shi’s identity. Visitors to Matsue Shi can observe how these elements contribute to the overall atmosphere and character of the community. The ongoing maintenance and development of these features demonstrate the community’s commitment to preserving its distinctive identity.

The average annual temperature in Matsue is 15. The average annual rainfall is 1,791. The broader context of Matsue Shi within its regional setting provides additional perspective on these important characteristics. Community members and visitors alike benefit from understanding how these elements fit into the larger picture of Matsue Shi’s development. The integration of these features with other aspects of community life creates a comprehensive picture of what makes Matsue Shi unique. Ongoing research and documentation help preserve knowledge about these important aspects of Matsue Shi for future generations.

In contemporary Matsue Shi, these characteristics continue to play an important role in community life and development. Modern residents of Matsue Shi work to balance preservation of traditional elements with adaptation to changing needs and circumstances. The community’s approach to managing these aspects reflects a thoughtful consideration of both historical significance and future requirements. Visitors to Matsue Shi can observe how the community successfully integrates respect for its heritage with progressive planning for the future. This balance between tradition and innovation represents one of the defining characteristics of modern Matsue Shi.

For visitors exploring Matsue Shi, these elements provide opportunities for meaningful engagement with the community’s distinctive character. The accessibility and presentation of these features make it possible for tourists and other visitors to gain authentic insights into Matsue Shi. Local guides and community members often share additional information that enhances the visitor experience in Matsue Shi. The community’s welcoming approach to tourism ensures that visitors can appreciate these aspects while respecting local customs and preferences. Many visitors to Matsue Shi report that understanding these elements significantly enriches their overall experience of the destination.

Looking toward the future, Matsue Shi continues to develop strategies for maintaining and enhancing these important community characteristics. Community planning processes in Matsue Shi regularly consider how to preserve essential elements while accommodating growth and change. The involvement of residents in these planning discussions ensures that future development in Matsue Shi reflects community values and priorities. Sustainable approaches to managing these aspects help ensure that future generations will be able to appreciate and benefit from them. The long-term vision for Matsue Shi includes continued attention to these foundational elements of community identity and character.

Climate considerations in Matsue Shi continue to play important roles in community planning, agricultural practices, tourism development, and daily life for residents and visitors. Understanding and adapting to climate patterns helps the community make informed decisions about various activities and developments in Matsue Shi. The community’s approach to climate adaptation demonstrates resilience and forward-thinking planning that benefits both current residents and future generations.

Demographics and Population

The demographic composition and population characteristics of Matsue Shi provide insights into the community’s social structure, cultural diversity, and development trends. Population data helps community leaders and residents understand changing needs and plan for future growth and development in Matsue Shi. The diversity of backgrounds, ages, and experiences among residents contributes to the rich social fabric that defines contemporary Matsue Shi. Demographic trends also influence economic development, educational planning, and community service provision in Matsue Shi.

#Demographics Per Japanese census data, the population of Matsue in 2020 is 203,616 people. This aspect of Matsue Shi represents a significant element in understanding the community’s character and development. The information provides valuable insights into the distinctive features that define Matsue Shi within its regional context. Understanding these characteristics helps visitors and residents appreciate the unique qualities that make Matsue Shi a noteworthy destination.

Matsue has been conducting censuses since 1920. The development and evolution of these features in Matsue Shi reflect broader patterns of growth and change in the region. Local residents and community leaders have worked to preserve and enhance these important aspects of Matsue Shi’s identity. Visitors to Matsue Shi can observe how these elements contribute to the overall atmosphere and character of the community. The ongoing maintenance and development of these features demonstrate the community’s commitment to preserving its distinctive identity.

Historical populationYearPop. ±% 1920 118,138— 1925 122,592+3. The broader context of Matsue Shi within its regional setting provides additional perspective on these important characteristics. Community members and visitors alike benefit from understanding how these elements fit into the larger picture of Matsue Shi’s development. The integration of these features with other aspects of community life creates a comprehensive picture of what makes Matsue Shi unique. Ongoing research and documentation help preserve knowledge about these important aspects of Matsue Shi for future generations.

In contemporary Matsue Shi, these characteristics continue to play an important role in community life and development. Modern residents of Matsue Shi work to balance preservation of traditional elements with adaptation to changing needs and circumstances. The community’s approach to managing these aspects reflects a thoughtful consideration of both historical significance and future requirements. Visitors to Matsue Shi can observe how the community successfully integrates respect for its heritage with progressive planning for the future. This balance between tradition and innovation represents one of the defining characteristics of modern Matsue Shi.

For visitors exploring Matsue Shi, these elements provide opportunities for meaningful engagement with the community’s distinctive character. The accessibility and presentation of these features make it possible for tourists and other visitors to gain authentic insights into Matsue Shi. Local guides and community members often share additional information that enhances the visitor experience in Matsue Shi. The community’s welcoming approach to tourism ensures that visitors can appreciate these aspects while respecting local customs and preferences. Many visitors to Matsue Shi report that understanding these elements significantly enriches their overall experience of the destination.

Looking toward the future, Matsue Shi continues to develop strategies for maintaining and enhancing these important community characteristics. Community planning processes in Matsue Shi regularly consider how to preserve essential elements while accommodating growth and change. The involvement of residents in these planning discussions ensures that future development in Matsue Shi reflects community values and priorities. Sustainable approaches to managing these aspects help ensure that future generations will be able to appreciate and benefit from them. The long-term vision for Matsue Shi includes continued attention to these foundational elements of community identity and character.

Demographic trends and population characteristics in Matsue Shi continue to evolve, reflecting broader social and economic changes while maintaining the community’s distinctive character and values. Population dynamics influence resource allocation, community service planning, and development priorities in Matsue Shi. The community’s approach to managing growth and change while preserving its essential character demonstrates thoughtful planning and community engagement.

Economy and Industry

The economic landscape and industrial activities in Matsue Shi encompass various sectors and enterprises that contribute to local prosperity, employment opportunities, and community development. Economic diversity helps ensure resilience and stability for Matsue Shi, providing multiple sources of income and opportunity for residents. The business community in Matsue Shi includes both established enterprises and emerging ventures, creating a dynamic economic environment. Economic development efforts focus on building on existing strengths while exploring new opportunities for growth and innovation in Matsue Shi.

Economy Matsue is a major regional commercial center and as one of the base cities of the San'in region, and along with Yonago, there are many head offices of companies operating in the San'in region. This aspect of Matsue Shi represents a significant element in understanding the community's character and development. The information provides valuable insights into the distinctive features that define Matsue Shi within its regional context. Understanding these characteristics helps visitors and residents appreciate the unique qualities that make Matsue Shi a noteworthy destination.

Agriculture, commercial fishing and tourism play major roles in the local economy; however, the city has only a small industrial base. The development and evolution of these features in Matsue Shi reflect broader patterns of growth and change in the region. Local residents and community leaders have worked to preserve and enhance these important aspects of Matsue Shi's identity. Visitors to Matsue Shi can observe how these elements contribute to the overall atmosphere and character of the community. The ongoing maintenance and development of these features demonstrate the community's commitment to preserving its distinctive identity.

Economy Matsue is a major regional commercial center and as one of the base cities of the San'in region, and along with Yonago, there are many head offices of companies operating in the San'in region. The broader context of Matsue Shi within its regional setting provides additional perspective on these important characteristics. Community members and visitors alike benefit from understanding how these elements fit into the larger picture of Matsue Shi's development. The integration of these features with other aspects of community life creates a comprehensive picture of what makes Matsue Shi unique. Ongoing research and documentation help preserve knowledge about these important aspects of Matsue Shi for future generations.

In contemporary Matsue Shi, these characteristics continue to play an important role in community life and development. Modern residents of Matsue Shi work to balance preservation of traditional elements with adaptation to changing needs and circumstances. The community's approach to managing these aspects reflects a thoughtful consideration of both historical significance and future requirements. Visitors to Matsue Shi can observe how the community successfully integrates respect for its heritage with progressive planning for the future. This balance between tradition and innovation represents one of the defining characteristics of modern Matsue Shi.

For visitors exploring Matsue Shi, these elements provide opportunities for meaningful engagement with the community's distinctive character. The accessibility and presentation of these features make it possible for tourists and other visitors to gain authentic insights into Matsue Shi. Local guides and community members often share additional information that enhances the visitor experience in Matsue Shi. The community's welcoming approach to tourism ensures that visitors can appreciate these aspects while respecting local customs and preferences. Many visitors to Matsue Shi report that understanding these elements significantly enriches their overall experience of the destination.

Looking toward the future, Matsue Shi continues to develop strategies for maintaining and enhancing these important community characteristics. Community planning processes in Matsue Shi regularly consider how to preserve essential elements while accommodating growth and change. The involvement of residents in these planning discussions ensures that future development in Matsue Shi reflects community values and priorities. Sustainable approaches to managing these aspects help ensure that future generations will be able to appreciate and benefit from them. The long-term vision for Matsue Shi includes continued attention to these foundational elements of community identity and character.

Economic development in Matsue Shi continues to adapt to changing conditions while building on existing strengths and exploring new opportunities for growth and prosperity. Economic diversification and innovation contribute to long-term stability and resilience for the Matsue Shi community. The ongoing collaboration between business, government, and community organizations helps ensure that economic development serves the broader interests of Matsue Shi residents and visitors.

Planning Your Visit to Matsue Shi

When planning a comprehensive visit to Matsue Shi, travelers should consider the numerous aspects that make this destination unique within Japan, including the rich cultural heritage, distinctive geographic setting, welcoming community atmosphere, and diverse range of experiences available to visitors. The local characteristics, historical significance, and community amenities provide visitors with extensive opportunities for exploration, learning, and meaningful cultural engagement.

The regional context of Matsue Shi offers valuable insights into broader cultural and geographic patterns while maintaining its distinctive local character and community identity. Visitors can experience authentic community life, explore significant local traditions, appreciate unique architectural and natural features, and gain understanding of the historical and contemporary factors that define this remarkable Japan destination.

Whether interested in comprehensive historical heritage exploration, detailed geographic feature appreciation, immersive cultural experiences, authentic community life engagement, or extensive regional discovery, Matsue Shi provides multiple perspectives and opportunities for meaningful interaction with Japan destinations. The combination of significant local attractions, comprehensive community resources, important regional significance, and welcoming local hospitality creates extensive opportunities for meaningful cultural exchange, educational exploration, and memorable travel experiences.

Visitors planning extended stays in Matsue Shi will find that the community offers both the amenities necessary for comfortable accommodation and the authentic experiences that create lasting memories of Japan travel. The balance between preserving traditional character and embracing contemporary developments ensures that Matsue Shi continues to offer relevant and engaging experiences for travelers seeking authentic destinations that provide both historical significance and modern convenience.