Horikawa Sightseeing Boat - Fureai Hiroba Dock

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

Love this boat tour. They even have Kotatsu service in the winter time

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.

Small narrow boat that tours the canals surrounding the castle. Taking only about 10 people, as you have to lie almost flat when the roof is lowered to enable the boat to pass under the very low bridges. Quite a different experience, but well worth the mild discomfort. Take in the sights of the backwaters as the boat passes municipal buildings, roads and traditional houses as well as the trees and bushes that line the banks. May not be suitable for less able visitors.

Charming experience!