Horikawa River Matsue
Glide under low bridges around Matsue Castle on a unique boat tour, enjoying scenic views and local charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Stunning floral displays
Horikawa River Matsue
Best Time
Stunning floral displays
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Glide under low bridges around Matsue Castle on a unique boat tour, enjoying scenic views and local charm.
"A beautiful experience with a kind boatman who even sang a song for us!"
Duck and Lie Flat!
Be ready to duck or lie down for low bridges. Cross-legged seating is standard on the tatami mats. :athletic_shoe:
Listen to the Narration
The recorded narration, sometimes in an Irish accent, helps identify sights and photo spots. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Matsue Castle Moat Cruise
Horikawa River
Glide under low bridges, spot wildlife, and soak in picturesque castle views on this unique boat tour.
Hydrangea Season Blooms
Along the moat
Witness vibrant hydrangeas lining the canals, adding a splash of color to the historic scenery.
Wildlife Spotting
Horikawa River
Keep an eye out for turtles and various bird species as you leisurely cruise the waterways.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Low Bridges
Timing is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Duck and Lie Flat!
Be ready to duck or lie down for low bridges. Cross-legged seating is standard on the tatami mats. :athletic_shoe:
Listen to the Narration
The recorded narration, sometimes in an Irish accent, helps identify sights and photo spots. :iphone:
Enjoy the Boatman's Song
Many boatmen are happy to sing, especially in acoustically pleasing tunnels. It's a memorable experience! :musical_note:
Winter Warmth
Kotatsu (heated table) service is available in winter for a cozy experience. :snowflake:
Tips
from all over the internet
Duck and Lie Flat!
Be ready to duck or lie down for low bridges. Cross-legged seating is standard on the tatami mats. :athletic_shoe:
Listen to the Narration
The recorded narration, sometimes in an Irish accent, helps identify sights and photo spots. :iphone:
Enjoy the Boatman's Song
Many boatmen are happy to sing, especially in acoustically pleasing tunnels. It's a memorable experience! :musical_note:
Winter Warmth
Kotatsu (heated table) service is available in winter for a cozy experience. :snowflake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Horikawa River boat tour for its unique charm and the kindness of the boatmen, who often add a personal touch with songs. The experience of navigating under low bridges and enjoying the scenic moat views is a highlight, though the cross-legged seating on tatami mats may not suit everyone. Some find the recorded narration helpful for identifying sights.
"It was a beautiful experience. The boatman was so kind. He even sang a song for us. ✨"
Louviña
"What fun this was to slowly explore the canals around Matsue castle. We did the 50 minute (4km) tour - spotting birds and turtles, passing historic sights and laying flat on the boat’s tatami under the very low bridges. The recorded narration (in Hearn’s lovely Irish accent) paired with a colourful map, helped locate points of interest and best photography spots along the way. The smiley boatman even sang us a song in one of the acoustically perfect tunnels."
Kellie
"Nice chill boat ride around the castle. Be limber, no seats and you are sitting cross legged. The views are a beautiful experience, the hydrangea are amazing"
milo pete
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Horikawa River boat tour is easily accessible from Matsue Castle. Many visitors arrive by public transport to Matsue Castle and then walk to the boat tour departure points located around the castle moat. Check local bus routes for the most convenient options.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near Matsue Castle. It's recommended to park at the castle's parking lot and then proceed to the boat tour boarding areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but typically range around 1,000-1,500 JPY per person for the standard tour. It's always best to check the official website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date pricing.
While advance booking might not always be necessary, especially during off-peak times, it's a good idea to book ahead during peak seasons or if you have a specific time slot in mind to avoid disappointment. :ticket:
Operating hours can vary seasonally. Generally, tours run from morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to check the specific operating hours for the day of your visit, as they can be affected by weather conditions.
Yes, there are typically different tour lengths available, with a popular option being the 50-minute, 4km tour that circles the entire castle moat. Shorter routes may also be offered.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect a leisurely cruise around Matsue Castle's moat. You'll need to duck under low bridges, sit cross-legged on tatami mats, and enjoy the scenic views. Boatmen often provide commentary and may sing. :camerawithflash:
The tour involves sitting cross-legged on tatami mats and ducking under low bridges, which may be challenging for individuals with significant mobility issues. It's recommended to inquire directly with the tour operator about accessibility.
Visitors often report spotting turtles basking in the sun and various species of birds along the moat. Keep your eyes peeled for these natural inhabitants. :turtle:
Absolutely! The scenery is picturesque, and the low bridges offer unique photo opportunities. The recorded narration even points out good photography spots. :iphone:
The boats are traditional and feature tatami mat flooring. Passengers sit cross-legged directly on the mats. This is part of the unique experience, but be prepared if you're not comfortable with this seating style.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While food is not typically served during the standard tour, some operators might offer seasonal services like Kotatsu (heated table) during winter. It's best to dine before or after your boat trip at one of the many restaurants near Matsue Castle.
Generally, bringing your own food and drinks is usually permitted, but it's always a good idea to confirm with the tour operator beforehand to ensure compliance with their policies. :water_wave:
📸 📸 Photography
The entire route offers great photo opportunities. The low bridges, the castle from different angles, and the surrounding greenery are all scenic. The recorded narration often highlights specific points of interest for photography. :camerawithflash:
It can be a bit tricky due to the need to duck and the confined space. However, many find it part of the fun! Try to anticipate moments and have your camera ready. :iphone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for dynamic shooting conditions as you'll need to be agile to capture shots while ducking or lying down. The recorded narration can even guide you to the best vantage points for memorable photos. :camerawithflash:Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Boat Experience
Many visitors highlight the kindness and entertainment provided by the boatmen. Some are known to sing traditional songs, especially in acoustically resonant tunnels, creating a memorable and often joyful atmosphere.
This tour is more than just a sightseeing trip; it's an immersion into a different pace of life and a unique cultural practice. The slow, gentle pace allows for quiet observation of the natural surroundings, including wildlife like turtles and various bird species, as well as the picturesque, historic architecture of Matsue.
Navigating the Low Bridges
This unique challenge adds an element of excitement and surprise to the tour. It's a constant reminder of the historical context of the castle's defenses and the ingenuity required to traverse its waterways. The sensation of passing so close to the bridge structures, feeling the cool air and seeing the moss-covered stones, is quite distinct.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit