Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Zeze Castle is the remains of a castle that was located in Zeze, Otsu City, on the eastern shore of Lake Biwa. Developed in the early Edo period, it was valued as a strategic point controlling the Tokaido, the main road to Kyoto, and the water transport on Lake Biwa. As the castle of the Zeze Domain, it played a central role in the castle town until the end of the Edo period, when the castle tower and many of the buildings were demolished in accordance with the castle abolition order following the Meiji Restoration. Today, it has been turned into a park, and remains of the castle, such as the moat and stone walls, remain. Combined with its location near Lake Biwa, it is a popular spot for enjoying the scenery and strolling. There are many things to see, especially in the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn leaves in fall, making it a popular place of relaxation for local residents.
Highlights
- Stone walls and moats: The moats facing Lake Biwa and the castle's stone walls remain, giving a sense of the past. The moats, which draw in the lake water, give the castle a different feel from other inland castles.
– Castle Ruins Park (Zose Park): With walking paths and open spaces, it's perfect for strolling and picnics. You can learn about the history on the benches and information boards.
- Cherry blossoms and autumn leaves: In spring, it is a famous cherry blossom spot, and in autumn, you can enjoy the tranquil scenery of autumn leaves. There are many photo spots for each season.
- Surrounding scenery: The scenery with Lake Biwa in the background and the old townscape and shrines (such as Zeze Shrine) that remain nearby make for a fun stroll.
- Historical information boards and guides: There are information boards on-site that explain the history of the castle and its layout (structure), making it easy to visit.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train: The nearest station is Zeze Station on the JR Biwako Line (Biwako Line/Tokaido Main Line). It is about a 7-12 minute walk from the station (depending on the route).
- Public transportation (bus): Accessible by city bus from Otsu Station or Keihan Railway. Please check the routes and timetables before visiting.
- By car: Accessible from Otsu IC on the Meishin Expressway or from Seta. There are municipal and private parking lots around the castle ruins, but the number of spaces is limited, so if they are full, please use a nearby paid parking lot.
- Bicycle and walking: The area is connected to walking routes in the center of Otsu city and along the shores of Lake Biwa, making it convenient to get around by bicycle.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Quick tour: 30 minutes to 1 hour (just walk around the stone walls and moat and read the information boards)
- Leisurely stroll and photography: 1-2 hours (including resting in the park, taking in the lakeside scenery and the surrounding shrines)
- Cherry blossom viewing and picnics: 2 hours to half a day (please allow extra time as it may get crowded depending on the season)
Nearby spots
– Lake Biwa (Lakeside walks and sunset spots)
– Zeze Shrine (a shrine near the castle ruins)
– Ishiyama-dera Temple and Mii-dera Temple (accessible by train or car, historical temples and shrines)
- Otsu Port and Hamaotsu area (restaurants, souvenir shops, and Lake Biwa sightseeing boat dock)
- Kyoto (close on the Tokaido, and can be combined with other sightseeing trips on a day trip)
*Distance and access may vary depending on your destination. Please check your transportation options in advance.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The surrounding area is crowded during cherry blossom season, tourist season, and holidays (such as Golden Week). Parking lots tend to fill up quickly, so we recommend using public transportation.
- Safety and Manners: Please observe basic park manners, such as not climbing on stone walls or ruins without permission, not damaging plantings or facilities, and always taking your trash with you.
Weather and footing: The area around the moat and the stone steps can become slippery in rainy weather, so please wear comfortable shoes. There can also be strong winds from the lake, so it's a good idea to bring a jacket.
- Photography/Drones: Some ruins and parks prohibit the use of drones. Please check the rules before taking photos.
- Facility information: Restrooms and eating and drinking facilities may be limited, so if you plan to stay for an extended period of time, it is useful to check in advance where the eating and drinking places are.
supplement
The site is a "castle ruins as a historic site" with the main parts of the castle remaining, and there are few large-scale restored buildings such as the castle tower, so it is a tourist destination where you can quietly enjoy the ruins and lake views. It is suitable for historical walks, photography, and seasonal nature viewing. Please check the city's tourism website or local guide for the latest opening and event information before visiting.
