Guide
Gurutto Matsue Horikawa Meguri is a traditional sightseeing boat service that cruises through the historic moat surrounding Matsue Castle. This moat was originally constructed during the building of the castle and serves as a beautiful water path through the city. The approximately 50-minute cruise offers a relaxing view of the Matsue cityscape and its surrounding nature. A unique feature of this experience is the boat's retractable roof; the roof is designed to lower automatically to pass under the many bridges, creating an exciting and immersive sensation for passengers.
The Horikawa moat is a significant historical landmark, having been developed alongside the construction of Matsue Castle. Navigating these waters allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the historical layout of the castle town. It is a deeply rooted local tourism experience that allows you to trace the traditional Japanese landscape from a water-level perspective.
There are 17 bridges along the route, and at four specific locations, the boat's roof will lower to allow passage. This mechanical movement adds a sense of excitement and realism to the journey. Additionally, the banks of the moat are home to various seasonal flowers and waterbirds, offering a harmonious view where nature and historical architecture meet.
The experience changes beautifully with the seasons. In spring, you can enjoy the stunning view of cherry blossoms blooming along the banks. In winter, the boats are equipped with 'Kotatsu' (heated tables) to ensure passengers stay warm and comfortable despite the cold.
From the boat, you can enjoy panoramic views of the historic Matsue cityscape. There are three different boarding points: Fureai Hiroba, Otemae Hiroba, and Karakoro Hiroba. Please note that the electric sightseeing boats only operate from the Fureai Hiroba departure point.
There are three convenient boarding locations near Matsue Castle. The locations are approximately a 10-minute drive from JR Matsue Station. You can also access the various boarding points via the 'Gurutto Matsue Line' bus service.
While the boats have roofs, temperatures can fluctuate depending on the season and weather. We recommend dressing appropriately for the weather (warm clothing for winter and sun protection for summer). Please arrive at your designated boarding waiting room at least 5 minutes before the scheduled departure time. In case of severe weather, operations may be cancelled; please check the latest status before your visit.