Matsue’s 400th anniversary celebration

Matsue Castle and castle town was built over a period of 5 years and completed in 1611 by the first Lord and founding father of Matsue, Yoshiharu Horio. Due to its symbolic distinctiveness, the area flourished as the centre of Matsue’s government and economy. The last 400 years have seen green tea and Japanese confectionary introduced into the culture by the 7th feudal lord, Matsudaira Fumai, the castle being rescued by the people of Matsue and its beauty being written about by the famous writer Lafcadio Hearn.

松江城の桜
Matsue Castle cherry blossoms
Thanks to the efforts of such distinguished people, Matsue is now revered around the world as an International Culture and Sightseeing City. Throughout the years, Matsue has been introduced to the world as a beacon of true Japanese spirit and beauty, priding itself on maintaining both natural beauty and traditional culture. In 2005 a new, bigger Matsue was formed from the amalgamation of 8 smaller independent areas. In 2007 the newly Matsue decide that the 400th anniversary should be marked with a schedule of events to celebrate. The aim of this was to give people an opportunity to learn from their past to help develop a bright future.

It is absolutely vital that the people of Matsue reflect on the importance their city’s 400 year history, and use this landmark as a springboard to a brighter future. To realize that future, we felt a one off event would not have been enough. We decided to emulate Lord Yoshiharu Horio’s passion in constructing Matsue castle and castle town by organizing a range of events from 2007 to 2011, the same 5 year period in took him to complete the castle.

松江城の桜
Musha Gyoretsu Warrior Parade
So what can the people living in Matsue now pass on to future generations who will be hear to celebrate the city’s 450th or 500th anniversary? Matsue’s rich history is something that the Japan is proud of, and hoping to incorporate this aspect more into our city planning, which in turn will reflect on its citizens.
It gives me great delight to celebrate Matsue’s 400th anniversary over a span of 5 years, I appreciate the efforts of distinguished people who help raised Matsue’s profile, and really take pride in passing on my city’s history, culture and traditions.