Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hikone Castle, located in Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture, is an early Edo period castle built as the residence of the Ii clan. Construction began around the early 1600s, and the current castle tower is one of the few remaining that retains its original appearance well, and has been designated a National Treasure. In addition to the beauty of its stone walls, moats, and castle layout, the view of the strolling garden "Genkyuen" on the south side of the castle is also a highlight. In recent years, the arrival of the mascot character "Hikonyan" has further increased its tourist popularity, and the castle is attracting many people as a spot that combines historical value with tourist resources.
Highlights
- Main Tower (Honmaru): The existing main tower is designated as a national treasure. Inside, there are exhibits that tell the history of the castle and weapons (exhibits are subject to change). From the main tower, you can enjoy a view of the city and Lake Biwa.
- Stone walls, moats, and corridor bridges: The defensive structures from the time of the castle's construction remain well-preserved, and you can observe the stacking of the stone walls and the layout of the moats.
- Genkyuen Garden: A Japanese garden with a strolling pond. The scenery changes with the seasons (cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, autumn leaves, snowy scenery), and the teahouse within the garden is also a highlight.
– Yumekyobashi Castle Road: A shopping street that recreates the atmosphere of a castle town. Lined with souvenir shops and restaurants, it's perfect for a stroll.
- Hikonyan: Official character appearance events are held occasionally (please check the official announcement for appearance dates and times).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train: About a 15-minute walk from JR Biwako Line (Tokaido Main Line) Hikone Station (from the east exit towards the castle). About a 10-minute walk from Ohmi Railway Hikone Station. You can also take a local bus or taxi from the station.
- By car: Access from the Hikone IC or Kawase IC on the Meishin Expressway. There are paid parking lots around the castle, but they tend to get crowded on holidays and during peak tourist seasons, so it's best to use public transportation.
Estimated travel time from Kyoto and Osaka: Approximately 30 minutes by train from Kyoto, approximately 40-60 minutes from Nagoya, and approximately 1 hour from Osaka (depending on the type of train).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Standard course including tour of the castle tower and Honmaru + Genkyuen Garden: 1.5 to 2 hours
- If you take your time exploring the gardens, museums, and surrounding castle town: 2.5 to 4 hours
– We recommend allowing half a day to a full day if you plan on taking seasonal photos, having lunch, and taking breaks at a cafe.
Nearby spots
– Genkyuen Garden (within the castle grounds) — A must-see garden.
– Hikone Castle Museum (Hikone Castle historical exhibition facility) — Exhibits related to the castle and the Ii family.
– Yumekyobashi Castle Road — A castle town-style street lined with souvenir shops and great places to eat.
– Hikone Port and Lake Biwa area—Enjoy strolls and the scenery along the lakeside.
– Local specialties (Omi beef restaurants, local sake breweries, etc.) — for meals and souvenirs.
Things to be aware of (crowding, etiquette, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It gets very crowded during the cherry blossom season (late March to early April), autumn foliage season, Golden Week, summer vacation, and weekends. If you arrive early in the morning or aim for the afternoon, you can enjoy a quieter viewing experience.
- Tickets and opening hours: An admission ticket is required. Opening hours, closing days, and admission fees may change depending on the season or events, so please check the official website for the latest information before visiting.
- Barrier-free access: There are many steep stone steps and steps inside the castle, and the stairs inside the castle tower are narrow and steep. There are some areas where it is difficult to view the castle tower with a wheelchair or stroller. The gardens and some facilities are relatively flat, but please check the access information in advance.
- Manners: To protect the historic site, entering any area other than the designated area and collecting plants are strictly prohibited. There are also areas where flash photography is prohibited within the exhibition rooms, so please follow the signs.
- Weather and season precautions: In summer, take precautions against the heat (drinks, hats, parasols, etc.), and in winter, be careful of frozen roads. Also, be careful when walking on rainy days as the stone steps can become slippery.
- Use of drones, etc.: Flying drones without permission is often prohibited at historical sites and tourist spots, so please check and get permission in advance.
supplement
– Events such as the appearance of Hikonyan, special exhibitions, and nighttime illuminations are often announced in advance, so it's a good idea to check official information or the information at the tourist information center.
– There are many restaurants and souvenir shops in the area, so we recommend combining your visit to the castle with a plan to enjoy local cuisine.
(Note) Opening hours, admission fees, event information, and transportation times may change, so please check the Hikone Castle official website or local tourist information for the latest information.
