Shiomi Nawate is a street  just north of Matsue Castle overlooking the moat. It retains the charms and character of old Japan with its white-washed saumurai houses and old residences.

Along the street are the museum and  former residence of Lafcadio Hearn, the Greek-Irish writer who lived in Matsue over 120 years ago.

He is widely acknowledged as introducing Japan to the West, particularly through his stories about life in Matsue and his interpretations of Japanese folklore.

Lafcadio Hearn’s Former Residence

35 Kitahori-cho　Matsue　Tel: 0852-23-0714
Admission: 350 yen

Koizumi Yakumo Memorial Museum

The museum displays items belonging to and related to Hearn and his life, including his writing desk and manuscripts.

322 Okudani-cho　Matsue　Tel: 0852 21 2147
Hours: 8.30am-6.30pm April 1-September 30

 8.30am-5pm October 1-March 31
Admission: 150 yen for visitors from overseas. (half normal price)

Samurai House

The samurai house that is open to the public was once the residence of a middle-ranking samurai, and now displays many historical artifacts.

305 Shiomi-Nawate Kitahorichou matsue （0852）22-2243
Hours: 8.30am-6.30pm April 1-September 30

8.30am-5pm October 1-March 31
Admission: 150 yen for visitors from overseas. (half normal price)

●Getting There: Take the Lakeline Bus from stop no. 7 at Matsue Station and get off at Koizumi Yakumo Kinenkan-mae.