Matsue is a quiet town known for its 17th century castle and its quaint atmosphere. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. Whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or taking in the beauty, we'll help you plan the ideal trip to Matsue that stays within your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Matsue?
You should plan to spend around $90 (¥13,059) per day on your vacation in Matsue. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $50 (¥7,291) on meals
- $21 (¥3,019) on local transportation
- $54 (¥7,842) on hotels
A one week trip to Matsue for two people costs, on average, $1,262 (¥182,826). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$631
¥91,413
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,262
¥182,826
-
One Month
Per person
$2,705
¥391,770
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,262
¥182,826
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$2,524
¥365,652
-
One Month
For a couple
$5,410
¥783,540
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Matsue cost?
A one week trip to Matsue usually costs around $631 (¥91,413) for one person and $1,262 (¥182,826) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Matsue on average costs around $1,262 (¥182,826) for one person and $2,524 (¥365,652) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Matsue will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Matsue on average costs around $2,705 (¥391,770) for one person and $5,410 (¥783,540) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Matsue expensive to visit?
Matsue is a popular town among visitors with a wide range of travel styles and spending habits. Budget-conscious travelers will find suitable hotel options, but there are also high-end hotels for those seeking luxury, plus mid-range accommodations for families or couples.
If you choose to make it so, Matsue can be very pricey, but you can reduce your expenses by eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $39 (¥5,713) per day, mid-range travelers spend $90 (¥13,059) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $171 (¥24,953) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Matsue.
Within Asia, Matsue is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Lhasa or Tianjin.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Matsue Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Matsue?
The average Matsue trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Matsue travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Matsue cost?
Matsue on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$12
(¥1,715)
|
$27
(¥3,921)
|
$52
(¥7,492)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$9
(¥1,321)
|
$21
(¥3,019)
|
$40
(¥5,768)
|
|
Food2
|
$22
(¥3,190)
|
$50
(¥7,291)
|
$96
(¥13,932)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$4
(¥591)
|
$9
(¥1,350)
|
$18
(¥2,580)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$2-5
(¥230-689)
|
$4-11
(¥525-1,575)
|
$7-21
(¥1,003-3,010)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget in Matsue. While many think they can cut costs for many things, the reality is that most people won't enjoy such a low-budget experience. Consider your preferences and travel style. Do you like resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, or hostels? Are activities and dining out a big part of your travel plans? Your answers will shape your budget and itinerary.
What Does It Mean to Be a Budget Traveler?
You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $39 that backpackers often get by on.
Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
In addition, the town provides solid public transit, making it easier for budget travelers to skip costly taxi or Uber fares. While food is a highlight for every visitor in Matsue, budget travelers often opt for street food or cook in their hostel, which can prevent them from enjoying the exquisite culinary offerings.
What Makes You an Average Traveler?
Couples and families on a fun trip will likely choose a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at popular dining spots, and visit significant museums and attractions that have entry fees. Most guests in Matsue will want to take in the essential attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities are not free. So, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be about $90 per person, per day.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
If you're looking for a complete getaway that features every luxury and a high level of service, plan on a cost of about $171 daily. To enjoy nicer hotels, dine at award-winning venues, indulge in extravagant experiences, and travel around the town with taxis or private drivers, you'll need to set aside a luxury budget. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Matsue/Izumo Taisha Shrine Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Matsue
The hotel prices in Matsue might surprise you. Some places charge much more for added luxury and amenities, especially during peak season. In the off-season, a room averages $154, but during peak summer season, expect to pay around $287. Prices vary from $74 to $575, but hostels are often cheaper. Booking in advance and traveling during the low season can help save you money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Matsue for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $54 (¥7,842). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $27 (¥3,921) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Matsue? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Matsue include:
- Ohashikan starting at $187
- Hotel Gyokusen starting at $217
Staying further from the town in Matsue could save you money with the help of a great public transit system, but higher transportation costs and a longer commute could be a downside.
Traveling during the shoulder or low season (instead of summer) means you'll get lower prices on accommodations and have fewer crowds to deal with.
Walking is a popular way to explore Matsue, so staying in a prime area is recommended. Just be prepared for potentially higher prices.
The town's old town is a significant attraction for travelers. Although hotels in this area may be more expensive, they usually feature plenty of character and easy access to all that the area has to offer.
Transportation Budget in Matsue
In Matsue, the public transportation system is excellent. There are city buses as well as Ichibata Bus. Tourists will mostly use the Lakeline loop, which connects the two railway stations with all of the city's major attractions. Buses run every 20 minutes. For quick and affordable travel, use public transit, though taxis and rideshares are available for convenience.
Visitors who prefer to discover the area by walking will find it enjoyable. Most of the town's sights can be reached on foot. You can walk from the JR Matsue Station to the castle in half an hour and it's only 15 minutes from the Shinjiko Onsen Station.
Public Transit: 
(great)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $21 (¥3,019) per person, per day, on local transportation in Matsue. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Matsue is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$21
¥3,019
Matsue is a very easy city to navigate: you can walk, bike, or take trains and buses. Three day combo passes are available to purchase to provide you with unlimited access to the trains and buses in the area.
In Japan, trains are one of the fastest and lowest cost means of transportation. Getting a Japan Rail Pass can save you money if you plan to stay for several days or more. Regional and nation-wide passes are available, usually for the number of days of your choice.
How much does it cost to go to Matsue? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Matsue will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Matsue
The food scene in Matsue is incredible, so be sure to spend time tasting all the local dishes. There are peaceful restaurants and cafes around town where you can sample the local dishes. Many restaurants have beautiful gardens and set lunch menus, which is a great way to sample fine dining cuisine at a reasonable price.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Matsue can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Matsue is $50 (¥7,291) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$50
¥7,291
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Matsue is around $50 (¥7291) per person, with previous travelers spending from $22 to $96. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Matsue are as follows:
- Breakfast: $5 to $15
- Lunch: $8 to $20
- Dinner: $15 to $35
- Coffee: $4
- Fast Food or Street Food: $8
Matsue is one of the best places to experience a traditional tea ceremony, head into nearly any cafe to experience the tradition and taste beautiful, fresh tea. Matsue is also known for maintain the art of the Japanese wagashi confectionery for hundreds of years. At Saiundo, you can try their special plum flavored Wakakusa treat, among their countless other offerings.
With Lake Shinji being a mix of both fresh and salt water, Matsue is provided with a unique range of fresh seafood. The Shijimi clams, eel, whitebait, shrimp, bass, smelt, and carp are known as the "Seven Delicacies of Lake Shinji". The amount harvested throughout the year varies, though you can always head to local restaurants for the best in season options.
Lots of hotels throw breakfast into the room rate, but some will charge for it. The quality and price can differ by hotel. Understanding this in advance can help you figure out if you'll need to spend extra money. It may be worth splurging on the hotel buffet, or you could find a less expensive option at a nearby bakery or cafe.
Enjoying the scenery while saving money is easy with a picnic. Head to a local grocery store or market, pick up some fresh food, and find a charming park or picturesque location for your meal.
Keep a water bottle with you to cut down on drink purchases. It's also better for the environment.
Before booking a tour, make a point of knowing which meals are part of the package. You may be responsible for some of your food costs, which can increase your overall budget.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Matsue
It's no surprise that Matsue sees many visitors since it offers museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and family-friendly activities.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Matsue typically cost an average of $9.32 (¥1,350) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$9.32
¥1,350
Yuushien Garden, located on Daikonshima Island just outside of central Matsue, is a large garden famous for its peony flowers and lush landscape. When touring the grounds, you'll find waterfalls, streams, stone lanterns, a central pond, and other traditional landscape. The garden's incredible peony collections really come to life in the Spring and can be viewed during the Peony Festival held late April through May.
Matsue is also famous for being home to Irish journalist Lafcadio Hearn who wrote books about Japan in the 1890's. Not only did he write about his life in Matsue, he also chronicled a lot of the local legends and ghost stories, making him a very important figure to the city. You can visit the Hearn residence where he stayed while in Matsue or go to the Lafcadio Hearn Memorial Museum to learn more about his life and time in Matsue.
The Matsue Castle is a truly a testament to Japan's architectural ingenuity. It is one of twelve surviving castles dating back to 1611; in the past 400 plus years, the castle has survived fires, earthquakes, and demolition filled Meiji Period. The main interior of the castle has been turned into a museum the displays arms and artifacts from various time periods. After exploring the castle and grounds, you can take a walk down to the Samurai village to explore the various museums and residences.
Matsue holds a number of festivals and events throughout the years. From late March to mid April, there is the Castle Festival held on the Matsue Castle grounds where you can picnic surrounded by cherry trees during the day and lanterns in the evening. Thanks to Lafcadio Hearn's relation to the city, Matsue holds an annual Irish festival and parade on St. Patrick's Day in honor of the Irish connection he brought there.
Being the water city, Matsue is a wonderful place to take a boat tour. The Horiwaka Sightseeing boat takes you through the moat around the Matsue Castle and through the other local canals. You can also go to the public hot springs at Shinjiko Station to soak your feet while mingling with locals.
Museums and Attractions:
Matsue is famous for its world-class museums and historic sites. Most people visit town specifically to see the Matsue Castle, which is one of the last original castles left in Japan. The city also has parks and gardens, as well as the Shimane Art Museum, Yaegaki Shrine, and Miho Shrine.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Matsue. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Private Kimono Elegant Experience in the Castle Town of Matsue for $39 details
- Tour around Matsue Horikawa for $12 details
Nightlife Budget in Matsue
In Matsue, the nightlife is generally low-key and soothing. It's a quiet town and there's not much of a nightlife scene, but if you spend the night you can probably find a quaint local bar where you can hang out.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $7.25 (¥1,050) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Matsue per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$7.25
¥1,050
The nightlife scene is a lot of fun, but reducing how much you drink can go a long way in keeping your budget on track.
Travel cost data last updated: Apr 26, 2025
Traveling in Matsue
Matsue, Japan is located on the scenic shores of Lake Shinji in the Shimane Prefecture. Matsue is the capital city of the prefecture and is known as the water city due to being located between Lake Shinji, Lake Nakaumi, and the Sea of Japan. This historically rich city is famous for being a laid back samurai village with stunning sunsets and traditional confectioneries.
The weather in Matsue is at its best in the Spring and Autumn, due to these times being far less humid and rainy. In the winter, they experience some snowfall and summers are hot and humid with a lot of rain in June and July.
Neighborhoods & Around
There are two main areas of the Matsue City Center: North Side and South Side, both of which are easy to navigate on foot. On the North Side, located on the north side of the Ohashi River, you'll find Matsue Castle, the Hearn Residence, and sightseeing boat tours. The south side houses many of the Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, along with the famous Shimane Art Museum.
Outside of the City Center, there are five other neighborhoods: Northern Matsue, Mihonoseki, Daikonshima Island, Southern Matsue, and South of Lake Shinji. Northern Matsue provides stunning views of the coast, sandy beaches, and gorgeous gardens to explore. Mihonoseki is on the eastern side and is often associated with Japanese mythology where it is said to hold the roots of the Japanese soul.
Daikonshima Island is home to Yuushien Garden, the famous peony garden located on this volcanic island. Southern Matsue is also linked to Japanese mythology and is the birthplace of the ancient Izumo culture. Finally, the South of Lake Shinji area houses many traditional Japanese inns and the hot springs of Tamatsukuri, often called the "baths of the gods".
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.