Welcome to Hikone Castle!
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Experience cherry blossoms and ancient temples
If you’re on a quest to experience the rich tapestry of Japanese history, look no further than Hikone Castle! This magnificent structure is one of only five castles in Japan that have earned the prestigious title of national treasure. It stands shoulder to shoulder with its illustrious siblings: Himeji, Matsumoto, Inuyama, and Matsue. Each castle tells its own story, but Hikone Castle offers a unique glimpse into the Edo period, where samurai once roamed and feudal lords wielded power.
A History That Stands Tall
Completed in 1622, Hikone Castle is a treasure trove of architectural beauty and historical significance. The castle is perched on a hilltop, granting visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the shimmering waters of Lake Biwa. As you ascend the steep stairs, you might find your legs protesting, but trust us, the stunning vistas from the top make every step worth it!
Before you reach the castle gates, you’ll cross a charming wooden bridge that hints at olden days when a single attack could change everything. It’s a reminder of the castle’s strategic importance and a subtle nod to the warrior spirit of the past.
Cherry Blossoms: Nature’s Own Fireworks
Springtime transforms Hikone Castle into a paradise of pink and white as cherry blossoms burst into bloom. Picture yourself strolling through the castle grounds, surrounded by a sea of delicate blooms that typically reach their full glory about a week after their cousins in Kyoto. It’s like stepping into a painting, where the vibrant colors dance in the breeze and the scent of flowers fills the air.
Step Inside the Hikone Castle Museum
Adjacent to the castle, the Hikone Castle Museum is a delightful stop where the past comes alive. Here, you can marvel at a stunning reconstruction of the palace buildings. Get up close and personal with traditional swords, intricately designed lacquered armor, and meticulously crafted tatami rooms. The museum also showcases the clan’s family heirlooms, each piece telling its own story of valor and tradition. And don’t worry about language barriers—there are excellent English explanations to enrich your visit!
Genkyuen Garden: A Serene Escape
Next on your adventure should be Genkyuen Garden, a beautiful landscape garden created in 1677 for the feudal lord to entertain guests. Imagine walking along the winding paths, surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle sound of water flowing from a central pond. The garden features four small islands connected by charming bridges, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and some stunning photo opportunities.
Feeling a bit parched? Pop into the teahouse for a refreshing cup of matcha tea for just 500 yen! Sipping tea while soaking in the beauty of the garden is an experience that will rejuvenate your spirit.
Yume Kyobashi Castle Road: A Taste of Edo
Before or after your castle escapade, take a leisurely stroll down Yume Kyobashi Castle Road, located just outside the moat. This delightful area has been designed to resemble a former castle town from the Edo period, complete with charming shops and eateries. It’s the perfect place to grab a bite to eat, and we highly recommend trying the Ohmi beef! Hailing from Shiga Prefecture, this beef is one of Japan’s top-tier wagyu brands, rivaling even the famous Kobe and Matsusaka beef. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you!
Getting to Hikone Castle
So, how do you get to this historical haven? It’s easy! First, hop on the Shinkansen bullet train to Maibara Station. From there, transfer to a local line that will whisk you away to Hikone Station in just about five minutes. Once you arrive at the station, a pleasant 15-minute walk will lead you right to the castle gates. It’s a great way to stretch your legs and soak in the local atmosphere.
Plan Your Visit
Hikone Castle welcomes visitors from 8:30 am until 5:00 pm, so make sure to plan accordingly. The admission fee is a mere 1,200 yen, which grants you access to the castle, museum, and garden. We recommend setting aside at least three hours to fully immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this historic site, not including any delicious lunch breaks!
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