This summer, rise to the National Treasure of Matsue Castle,floating in a sea of clouds.
A Sea of Clouds Embraces the Castle of the GodsIn Matsue, the sacred land where Gods are said to gather, an artificial sea of clouds will drift through the night—an ethereal fusion of mist, sound, and light.This poetic spectacle celebrates the 10th anniversary of Matsue Castle's designationas a National Treasure, honoring its enduring legacy and mystical presence.
This special event commemorates the 10th anniversary of Matsue Castle’s designation as a National Treasure on July 8, 2015.
As one of only 12 original castle keeps remaining in Japan, Matsue Castle stands as a rare and invaluable cultural icon.
This year also marks 150 years since Matsue Castle was saved from demolition under the Meiji government’s Castle Abolition Order, thanks to the resolve of those who recognized its value and took action to preserve it.
Their foresight and quiet determination ensured the castle’s survival for generations to come.
Trivia
Matsue Castle Keep (National Treasure)
Completed in 1611 (Keichō 6), the keep of Matsue Castle is the second largest (1,784 m²) and the third tallest (approximately 30 meters) among Japan’s twelve remaining original castle keeps.
Over the course of about 260 years, it served as the seat of three ruling families: the Horio clan (2 generations), the Kyōgoku clan (1 generation), and the Matsudaira clan (10 generations).
In 1875, following the Meiji government’s Castle Abolition Order, many of the castle’s structures—such as turrets, gates, and palace buildings—were dismantled. However, the main keep was saved thanks to the efforts of the devoted local benefactors, who bought it back and ensured its preservation.
After undergoing two major restorations, Matsue Castle was officially designated a National Treasure on July 8, 2015.
Experience the magic of:
Projection mapping on the castle keep
Immersive 3D soundscape
A One-of-a-Kind Nighttime Experience at Matsue Castle
As you ascend to the National Treasure keep, you’ll pass through layer upon layer of ethereal sea of clouds, surrounding the historic structure in a dreamlike embrace.
This exclusive nighttime event invites you into a world of light, sound, and projection, creating an immersive atmosphere unlike anything else.
A vision unfolds like a hanging scroll painted in ink wash—a landscape of illusion and reverence, where the majesty of Matsue Castle reveals itself more vividly than ever.
An immersive night show of light and poetry
set against the breathtaking backdrop of
Matsue Castle floating in a sea of clouds
20256.28SAT8.17SUN
Held on weekends, public holidays, and Tuesday, July 8
(Excluding August 2 & 3 – total of 21 event days)
Event Dates
Venue
Exhibit
OHSHIRO YOICHI
Food & Drink Stalls
Located at Umadome and Otemae Plaza
Hours: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Ticket Information
Event Dates
Weekends and public holidays between Saturday, June 28 – Sunday, August 17, plus Tuesday, July 8
(Excluding August 2 & 3)
Yakumo Rising
Matsue Castle in a Sea of Clouds
A story woven with light and poetry
Experience the magic of:
A mystical sea of clouds
Projection mapping on the castle keep
Immersive 3D soundscape
Advance reservations required.
Date-specific tickets must be purchased in advance.
Adults: ¥1,000
Elementary & middle school students: ¥500
Preschool children: Free
Same-day tickets (available only if not sold out): Additional ¥300。
Ticket Sales Period
From 10:00 AM on Wednesday, May 28, 2025
Tickets available until the day before each performance
(e.g., Tickets for Saturday, June 28 must be purchased by Friday, June 27)
How to Purchase
At Lawson convenience stores via Loppi machinesL Code: 62463
Payment at Lawson stores only
19:20～／19:40～／20:00～／20:20～／20:40～
Daytime Program
Sea of Clouds Display
Free Admission
(Separate admission fee required to enter the castle keep)
