Designated as one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Tree viewing spots, Matsue Castle Park is a delight during spring. Around 200 sakura trees dot the grounds here, and the best time to catch them in full bloom is from late March through until early April.
Matsue Castle is fascinating in and of itself, given that it's one of Japan's few original castles. Visitors can head inside the castle, too, and enjoy some fantastic views out over Matsue City from the top floor.
The castle grounds are free to enjoy, but if you do want to head inside the castle there is a fee of 680 yen.
To get to Matsue Castle, take the Lakeline bus from Matsue Station. The cost is ¥200 for adults for a single ride, and departures take place around every 20 minutes. Stay on the bus for approximately 10 minutes until you reach the dedicated stop for the castle.
If you're driving, take the Matsuinishi Interchange from the San'in Expressway. The castle is around a ten minute drive from the expressway exit.
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I'm an expat who has lived abroad for almost a decade, including 7 years in Japan. I've also visited 44 of 47 prefectures and hope to get to the last three someday! I'm particularly fond of exploring off the beaten path destinations, gardens, and tea houses, and have a real interest in Japan's growing vegan scene.
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