Running for over 20 years now, the Matsue Water Light Road event brings a variety of beautiful illuminations to Shimane's capital. Various locations across the city are decorated with handmade paper lanterns and colorful parasols, creating an ethereal atmosphere.
Event attendees also have the opportunity to take night cruises along Matsue Castle's moat and surrounding waterways, and it's the only time of year these cruises are offered after dark.
The illuminations are displayed on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays during the event dates, from 6 pm until 9 pm.
Getting there
The main locations for the illuminations are Matsue Castle, Shiomi Nawate Street, and the Matsue Horikawa Craft Beer Hall. All of the destinations are walkable from one another within about 5 minutes.
The Matsue Castle area can be conveniently accessed via the Matsue Lake Line Bus, which has regular departures (approximately every 20 minutes) from Matsue Station to various sightseeing destinations in the city.
More info
Find out more about Matsue Castle.
Kim Bergström @kim.b
Almost 12 years living in Asia. Passionate about Japan's off-the-beaten-path spots, family-friendly travel, flower events (all of them!) and the amazing tea culture here. 🍵🌼🌸
