September 14, 2017, by the castle moat. The day before, after witnessing the magical sunset hour in Onomichi, the Sanyo region journey came to an end. Now, a new adventure begins in Matsue, the "Water City" of Japan. Matsue is known for its picturesque canals, historic Matsue Castle (one of the few original castles remaining in Japan), and a deep literary connection to Lafcadio Hearn.
I arrived early in the morning. My first stop was Matsue Castle, also called "Black Castle." Unlike many reconstructions in Japan, this castle retains its original wooden interiors and steep staircases. Climbing to the top floor rewards you with a sweeping view of Lake Shinji and the city's calm grid below.
After descending, I rented a bicycle and explored the Horikawa Canal. I paused at Shiomi Nawate Street, a preserved samurai district. Lunch was a bowl of soba from a tiny shop near the castle. In the afternoon, I visited the Lafcadio Hearn Memorial Museum and his former residence — a quiet, traditional home with a garden that invites reflection.
As dusk approached, I walked along the shore of Lake Shinji. The sunset painted the sky in shades of lavender and coral. Matsue taught me to slow down — not every journey needs to be a race.