Get to Know Japan Series: Matsue

Get to Know Japan Series: Matsue
July 17 & 18, 2023

Known as the “City of Water,” historic Matsue City is nestled between the sea and two lakes—Lake Shinji and Lake Nakaumi—in southwestern Japan. This picturesque city is the capital of Shimane Prefecture, and is famed for Matsue Castle, one of the few castles in Japan to have endured since ancient times. Also known as “Plover Castle” due to the swooping shape of its roofs, the castle is surrounded by moats that can be accessed by sightseeing boat. Matsue is also famous for having been the home of writer Lafcadio Hearn, one of the earliest authors to introduce Japan to the Western world. Hearn’s samurai residence has been preserved and is open to visitors as an extension of the Lafcadio Hearn Memorial Museum. Matsue is also known for its tea culture, and exquisite matcha tea and handmade wagashi can be enjoyed at many locations around the city.



Get to Know Japan Series: Matsue is co-organized by Matsue City.



The Food Talk Series is sponsored by Kikkoman Corporation.




Japan Society programs are made possible by leadership support from Booth Ferris Foundation and the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. Additional support for cultural programs is provided by an anonymous donor and the Sandy Heck Lecture Fund.