Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Exploring Matsue’s Hidden Gem: A Boat Trip to Kitsunemorijima
Imagine stepping away from the busy streets of Matsue and into a peaceful, unspoiled natural setting. This tour takes you on a boat ride from the historic Yata Ferry area—where 1300 years of history whisper through the old port—to Kitsunemorijima, a remote island with a campground and a world of tranquility waiting. It’s an experience that perfectly balances adventure and relaxation, especially if you’re craving a break from sightseeing and want to connect with nature in a simple, authentic way.
What really makes this trip stand out is its intimate scale—only your group will be on the boat—and the chance to enjoy a campfire on an uninhabited island. It’s a rare opportunity to breathe fresh air, walk among untouched scenery, and perhaps even learn some basic fire-starting skills from friendly guides.
One thing to keep in mind: the duration is just about two hours, so this is more of a quick escape than a full-day adventure. Still, the value here is in the serenity and unique setting, making it perfect for travelers who love small, meaningful experiences. If you’re after a fun, straightforward way to enjoy Japan’s outdoors without fussing over complicated logistics, this is a solid choice—especially for nature lovers, solo adventurers, couples, or groups seeking a memorable day outside the city.
Key Points
- Unique Access to Nature: The tour provides access to Kitsunemorijima, an uninhabited island with a rustic campground.
- Historic Starting Point: The Yata Ferry area has a millennia-old history, adding a cultural layer before the adventure.
- Intimate Experience: Only your private group joins the boat and activities, making it personalized and relaxing.
- Authentic Campfire Fun: Learn to light a campfire, roast marshmallows, and enjoy snacks with scenic views.
- Affordable and Value-Focused: At $141.17 per group (up to 6), you get a memorable outdoor excursion without breaking the bank.
- Flexible and Easy to Book: Confirmations arrive within 48 hours, and the process is straightforward, with options for cancellation.
A Deeper Dive Into the Experience
Starting Point and Accessibility
The tour begins at 1007-1 Asakumich, Matsue, a location with deep historical roots, adding a cultural flavor even before setting sail. The meeting point is near public transportation, making it convenient for travelers staying in or around Matsue. The activity runs on weekends—Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM—which suits most travelers looking for a weekend escape.
The Boat Ride: A Short but Scenic Journey
Once onboard the ferry, the journey across the water feels just right—not too long, but enough to enjoy the views of Matsue’s coastal scenery. Reviewers highlight the safe and friendly nature of the boat ride, with one noting that the boat operators “took us to the island very safely.” The boat itself is small, which enhances the feeling of intimacy and adventure, rather than a crowded ferry experience.
Kitsunemorijima: A Rare, Uninhabited Escape
Kitsunemorijima, with its rustic camping site, offers a rare chance to enjoy nature without the noise or hassle of modern amenities. Many reviews mention how peaceful and natural the island is—“full of nature,” as one reviewer put it. The island isn’t just a place to camp; it’s a canvas for outdoor fun, whether that’s sitting by a campfire, walking the shoreline, or just soaking in the scenic views.
Campfire and Social Activities
A standout feature of this tour, based on reviews, is the campfire experience. Guides like Alexia (mentioned by a reviewer) help participants learn how to light a fire—something many find surprisingly rewarding. Once the fire is lit, roasting marshmallows, sharing coffee, and chatting with fellow travelers add to the relaxed, communal vibe. The carefully prepared campsite means you don’t need to worry about setup; it’s all about enjoying the moment.
Value and Authenticity
At just over $140 for a private group of six, the price point feels quite reasonable given the personalized experience. The tour offers a blend of cultural history, outdoor activity, and social bonding that’s often missing from typical sightseeing trips. Reviewers have specifically appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the chance to learn basic outdoor skills, which elevate this from just a boat trip to a mini outdoor adventure.
Practical Tips and Considerations
- The two-hour duration makes this ideal for a brief outdoor fix, but those seeking a full day of activity might want to combine it with other tours.
- Since the activity is weather-dependent, a clear day will ensure the best experience—poor weather could mean cancellation or rescheduling.
- The activity is suitable for most travelers, including service animals, and is designed to be accessible, although the small boat might not be suitable for everyone depending on mobility needs.
Why This Tour Works for Different Travelers
For nature lovers, this is a rare opportunity to step onto an uninhabited island with minimal human interference. If you love the idea of learning outdoor skills like fire-starting, the guides’ friendly approach makes this accessible. Couples or small groups looking for an authentic, peaceful escape will find this tour perfectly suited to their needs. It’s also a great activity for travelers who enjoy unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?
This boat and camping experience offers a wonderful balance of history, outdoor fun, and quiet reflection. It’s especially well-suited for those who want to escape the city hustle and enjoy a genuine outdoor environment, even if just for a few hours. The intimate group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personal touch, making it more than just a trip—it’s a small adventure that leaves lasting memories.
If you’re after a simple, authentic outdoor experience in Japan, this tour is a smart choice. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a small group, the chance to sit by a campfire on an uninhabited island in Matsue is a rare find.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally accessible to most travelers, but consider the small boat and outdoor campfire activities. Children comfortable with boat rides and outdoor environments should be fine, but check with the provider if you have specific concerns.
What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the boat ride, the use of the campsite, and the guidance for campfire activities. Snacks and roasting marshmallows are provided, adding a fun touch to the experience.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are allowed and will be fully refunded. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled activity.
How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride is around the same duration as the overall activity—about two hours in total, including the time on the island.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour, making it accessible for travelers with disabilities.
What should I bring?
Most gear is provided, but bringing a light jacket, comfortable footwear, and possibly a camera for photos is recommended. Check with the provider for any additional packing suggestions.
Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The group size is private, so solo travelers will enjoy a personalized experience.
What makes this experience stand out?
The blend of cultural history, the chance to learn outdoor skills, and the peaceful natural setting on Kitsunemorijima make it a truly memorable outing.
In essence, this boat-to-island camping tour offers an authentic slice of nature near Matsue, perfect for those seeking a calm, engaging outdoor escape. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe in fresh air, and create memories around a campfire—something many travelers might not get to do every day in Japan.
