This tour offers a profound journey through two of Shimane’s greatest treasures: the National Treasure Matsue Castle and the world-renowned Adachi Museum of Art. We begin at Matsue Castle, one of only twelve original "existing castle towers" that has stood for over 400 years without being destroyed by war or fire. Completed in 1611, its rugged and practical design reflects the spirit of the samurai era. While most Japanese castles were demolished in the 19th century, Matsue Castle was saved when local citizens and former samurai pooled their resources to buy it back. Accompanied by an expert guide, you will walk through the historic Shiomi Nawate street to reach Meimei-an, a tea house built by the legendary Lord Matsudaira Fumai, who spread the refined culture of tea throughout the region.

Next, we visit the Adachi Museum of Art, famous for its philosophy that "a garden is also a picture." The founder, Zenko Adachi, created these world-class gardens with the hope that the intuitive beauty of nature would serve as a gateway to understanding Japanese art. By first being moved by the seasonal beauty of the landscape, visitors can truly connect with the "emotional beauty" found in the works of master painter Yokoyama Taikan. This museum is a masterpiece where the finest Japanese gardens and paintings exist in perfect harmony.

Experience the authentic history of a fortress protected by its people and the serene beauty of a garden crafted as living art.

1. Matsue Castle & Historical Stroll After exploring the main keep of Matsue Castle, a designated National Treasure, we will take a walk along the atmospheric path leading to Shiomi Nawate—a route once cherished by the writer Lafcadio Hearn (Koizumi Yakumo) for his daily commutes and strolls. Along the way, we will stop at Jozan Inari Shrine, one of Hearn’s favorite spots, and share chilling local ghost stories tied to the castle, such as the legend of the "Gensuke Pillar." The tour concludes at Meimei-an, a tea house perched on a hill overlooking the castle, where you can admire the traditional garden and enjoy a bowl of authentic matcha green tea in a serene tatami room.

2. Adachi Museum of Art This museum was founded in 1970 by Zenko Adachi to realize his vision of a "harmony between masterful gardens and Japanese paintings." Its vast 50,000-square-foot Japanese garden has been ranked number one in Japan by a specialized U.S. magazine every year since 2003. Here, you can enjoy world-class masterpieces by legends such as Yokoyama Taikan, alongside the Rosanjin Hall (opened in 2020), which showcases the exceptional ceramics and calligraphy of Kitaoji Rosanjin. The exhibits change with the seasons to mirror the evolving beauty of the gardens, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the exquisite tranquility of Japanese aesthetics.