Japan 2019 – Matsue

Near Sakaiminato is Matsue, a city with some hidden gems in history and culture, nestled in Shimane Prefecture and well worth a day’s visit.

The highlight was Matsue Castle one of Japan’s original surviving castles. Unlike many others, it escaped destruction by fire or war. Built in 1611, it stands as a testament to the power Horio Yoshiharu (aka Horio Mosuke), first leader of the Matsue Clan. This castle, also known as “Plover Castle” or also “Black Castle” offers a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past, with its wooden interiors and ancient armaments.

Wandering through Matsue’s streets was an interesting mix of very small-scale architecture and traditional buildings. Not always beautiful, but always intriguing. The calm waters of Lake Shinji and the river and canal system add to its charm. The city’s layout reflects the old castle town structure, offering a typical Japanese blend of history and modernity. If you get the chance, visit one of the three biggest boat festivals in Japan, the Horan-enya, a Shinto ritual. Alternatively, you could visit the museum as I did.

Another stop was the Jozan Inari Jinja Shrine right at the castle. This Shinto shrine, with its classic red torii gates, is a serene place that offers peace amidst the city. It’s a significant part of Japan’s deep spiritual culture, where people often visit to seek blessings and connect with its original Shinto beliefs. More specifically for this shrine, it is dedicated to the goddess Ukanomitama, the younger sibling of the harvest deity Ōtoshi-no-Kami.

My adventure continued on the “Fox Trail.” In Japanese folklore, foxes (kitsune) are intelligent beings with magical abilities, sometimes shape-shifting and having a significant influence in manga (if you’ve ever wondered why some anime characters resemble foxes). Pointing also to natural phenomena – Kitsune no yomeiri (the Fox’s wedding). They are an interesting blend of protectors and tricksters.