City of International Cultures Tourism—Matsue Hospitality Trip

Day 1

Matsue Castle

Matsue castle, symbol of water town Matsue, popular with the citizens. The view from the castle tower, which has been designated as a national important cultural property, is wonderful. It’s possible to see over Lake Shinji and the townscape. In addition, the Matsue Jōzan Park has been selected as one of “Japan’s 100 famous cherry blossoms,” admired by people as a relaxing place.

There are bumps at several places, but upon prior contact to the administration office (0852-21-4030), the staff will help you. It’s also possible to go up to the Ninomaru Ueono Dan in a wheelchair by a roundabout route.

The Matsue Horikawa Sightseeing Boat Ōte Mae boarding point

There are 3 boarding points for the Horikawa Sightseeing boats, which cruise the moat around Matsue Castle in 50 minutes, but boarding ramps are available only at the Matsue Horikawa Fureai Place. However, wheelchairs cannot directly board the boats.

When boarding the boats, wheelchair users have to leave the wheelchair and then get on board. The boat operator may help you. The boats pass under more than 10 bridges. Among these, the bottom part of the bridge is low in 4 cases, so the roof of the boat has to be lowered down. Before departure, the operator will demonstrate to which extent the roof has to be lowered. For people who cannot hold in that position, assistance is desirable.

There’s a ramp up to the boarding point.

Day 2

Vogel Park

Located in Matsue, Shimane, it’s the world’s largest indoor garden. There are all-weather parks, which are connected by roofed corridors. It’s possible to enjoy the special world of flowers, mainly begonias and fuchsias, which are in full blossom throughout the year. In addition, it’s possible to encounter lots of birds in several places in the park, including the two bird hothouses.

Inside of the facility, there are ups and downs at some places and some of them have stairs. Ramps are installed, but they are steep sometimes. The restaurants and souvenir shops in the premises are easy to move around in a wheelchair. Multipurpose bathrooms are also available.

Karakoro Art Studio

Karakoro Art Studio, remodeled from the former Matsue Branch, Bank of Japan, is a tourist facility for making, seeing, and tasting in one place. The name Karakoro came from an episode of the great writer Lafcadio Hearn, representative of Matsue in the Meiji era, who got a deep impression of the “kara-koro” sound made by the geta sandals passing on the Matsue Ōhasi Bridge. There are many shops, such as producing and selling studios, restaurants, and coffee shops. Events like concerts, solo exhibitions, hands-on experiences are conducted in classrooms and at a garden terrace.

Wheelchair users can easily move inside. There are 2 accessible bathrooms, which is convenient.

Day 3

Izumo Magatamano Sato Tradition Center

At the experience studio, making magatama jewel decorated with string and beads is popular. People with disabilities also can take part in the magatama experience with the help of the workers. It’s the only place in Japan to have magatama working experience under the guidance from agate workers. Accessible bathrooms and elevators are available.