Hikone Castle
One of Japan's twelve original castles, Hikone Castle offers a preserved glimpse into feudal history with stunning views and a charming mascot.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Stunning autumn foliage
Hikone Castle
Best Time
Stunning autumn foliage
Highlights
Must-see attractions
One of Japan's twelve original castles, Hikone Castle offers a preserved glimpse into feudal history with stunning views and a charming mascot.
"Truly worth a visit, and returns — probably mid-November for the Fall colors, and April for the peak of sakura blooms."
🚶 Walk from Hikone Station
Enjoy a pleasant 20-minute walk from Hikone Station to the castle grounds. :athletic_shoe:
🎟️ Combo Tickets Available
Consider a combo ticket for castle, gardens, and museum for a comprehensive experience. :admission_tickets:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hikone Castle Keep
Main castle tower
One of Japan's twelve original castles, offering panoramic views of Lake Biwa and the surrounding landscape.
Genkyu-en Garden
Adjacent to the castle
A beautifully preserved Edo-period garden offering tranquil ponds, tea houses, and scenic vistas.
Omote Goten (Daimyo's Palace)
Museum area
A reconstructed palace showcasing the history of the Ii family and housing a collection of historical artifacts.
Hikonyan Mascot
Castle grounds and city
Meet Hikone's adorable and popular castle mascot, a charming addition to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Enjoy the Views
Best Time for Scenery & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶 Walk from Hikone Station
Enjoy a pleasant 20-minute walk from Hikone Station to the castle grounds. :athletic_shoe:
🎟️ Combo Tickets Available
Consider a combo ticket for castle, gardens, and museum for a comprehensive experience. :admission_tickets:
⛰️ Steep Steps Ahead
Be prepared for steep steps inside the castle keep; they were designed for defense! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture Lake Biwa Views
The top floor offers amazing views of Lake Biwa and the western mountains. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶 Walk from Hikone Station
Enjoy a pleasant 20-minute walk from Hikone Station to the castle grounds. :athletic_shoe:
🎟️ Combo Tickets Available
Consider a combo ticket for castle, gardens, and museum for a comprehensive experience. :admission_tickets:
⛰️ Steep Steps Ahead
Be prepared for steep steps inside the castle keep; they were designed for defense! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture Lake Biwa Views
The top floor offers amazing views of Lake Biwa and the western mountains. :camerawithflash:
🏯 Original Castle Charm
Hikone is one of Japan's few original castles, offering a unique glimpse into history. :japanese_castle:
🐾 Meet Hikonyan!
Don't miss the chance to see Hikone's beloved mascot, Hikonyan! :smiley:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Hikone Castle for its well-preserved original structures, peaceful atmosphere, and stunning views of Lake Biwa. The charming mascot, Hikonyan, adds a unique appeal. While the steep steps inside the keep are noted, the overall experience is highly recommended for its historical authenticity and scenic beauty.
"I went on a weekday morning , before 9AM.
Took the train from Ishiyama station, then a pleasant 20-minute walk from Hikone station to the castle. Tickets were Y1000 for castle and gardens; Y1500 for castle/gardens + museum. I thought the grounds were well-maintained, staff were courteous, and the castle is awesome.
The reconstructed Omote Goten (Daimyo’s Palace), present-day museum, is also beautiful, with a wonderful collection (much of it donated by the Ii family).
Truly worth a visit, and returns — probably mid-November for the Fall colors, and April for the peak of sakura blooms (the grounds have hundreds of cherry trees).
And, also, no maddening crowds of Kyoto or Osaka."
Joe Poblador
"Great castle with excellent views of Lake Biwa and the surrounding areas. The castle itself is atop a mountain so it is recommended to take a walking stick at the entrance as there will be a lot of uphill and downhill areas. There are toilets and shops as well. Also has a good museum and a great forested area with some wildlife. Surprisingly the moat also is home to some swans and fish."
[SYSTEM101]
"It was such a nice place to discover and explore. I've been there between 14:00 and 17:00, but I do recommend you go a bit earlier so you can explore everything more leasurely. I didn't have time to also visit the garden as it was already very close to closing time."
Adrian Sima
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hikone Castle is easily accessible by train from Kyoto Station, taking about an hour. From Hikone Station, it's a pleasant 20-minute walk to the castle grounds. 
Yes, Hikone Castle is well-signposted from Hikone Station. The walk is scenic and offers glimpses of the castle as you approach.
While driving is possible, public transport is highly recommended for ease of access and to avoid parking hassles. The train journey is straightforward and enjoyable.
Walking is ideal for exploring Hikone city and reaching the castle. For longer distances, local buses are available.
Hikone Castle is located in Shiga Prefecture, less than an hour from Kyoto, making it a convenient day trip destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the castle and gardens typically cost around Y1000. A combined ticket including the museum is usually Y1500. Prices may vary.
Hikone Castle is generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry usually around 4:30 PM. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current hours.
Advance booking is generally not required for Hikone Castle, especially on weekdays. However, during peak seasons like cherry blossom or autumn foliage, it's wise to check for any special ticketing arrangements.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or group rates is best confirmed directly with the castle's official ticketing information.
A standard ticket usually grants access to the main castle keep and the surrounding grounds, including the Genkyu-en Garden. The museum may require a separate or combined ticket.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside the castle keep, you'll find steep staircases and rooms that were once used for defense and living quarters. The top floor offers spectacular views.
The castle keep has many steep stairs and is not easily accessible for those with mobility issues. The gardens and museum area are more accessible.
Genkyu-en Garden is a beautiful Edo-period landscape garden with ponds, bridges, and traditional tea houses, offering a peaceful contrast to the castle.
Photography is generally allowed in most areas of Hikone Castle and its grounds, but flash photography might be restricted inside certain buildings or exhibits.
A visit to Hikone Castle, including the keep, gardens, and museum, can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and interest.
📸 📸 Photography
The views from the top of the castle keep overlooking Lake Biwa are iconic. The Genkyu-en Garden also offers beautiful shots, especially during autumn or spring.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides the most flattering conditions for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing the castle's atmosphere.
The castle's white walls against a blue sky or autumn foliage are classic shots. Don't forget to capture the charming mascot, Hikonyan, if you see him!
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for both wide landscape shots and details. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions, but check for restrictions.
Absolutely! Hikone Castle is a popular spot for cherry blossom photography in April. The contrast of the pink blossoms against the castle is stunning.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 While the steep stairs inside the castle keep might be challenging for very young children or strollers, the expansive grounds and the Genkyu-en Garden provide plenty of space to explore. Consider purchasing Hikonyan merchandise as a memorable souvenir. Visiting the Omote Goten museum can also be engaging for older children, offering a glimpse into samurai life. The overall atmosphere of Hikone is less crowded than major tourist hubs, making it a more relaxed outing for families. Pack snacks and water, and be prepared for some walking and climbing.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers
+1 The entrance fee is reasonable, and the castle grounds offer plenty to see without requiring expensive additional activities. As a solo traveler, you can explore at your own pace, taking in the history and scenic views without feeling rushed. The castle's less crowded nature compared to other Japanese castles provides a more personal and reflective experience.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2 The panoramic views from the top of the castle tower, especially of Lake Biwa, are breathtaking and offer excellent landscape photography potential. The Genkyu-en Garden provides a different aesthetic, with its tranquil ponds, bridges, and meticulously arranged flora, perfect for capturing serene nature shots.
+2 Remember to explore different angles and times of day to capture the castle's changing moods. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: Hikone Castle's Origins
+1 Its strategic location overlooking Lake Biwa was crucial for defense. The castle's design reflects the military architecture of the time, with steep, winding paths and formidable walls intended to deter attackers. The castle's survival is a testament to its historical significance and the efforts to preserve it. Unlike many castles that were destroyed or rebuilt, Hikone Castle retains much of its original structure, offering visitors an authentic experience.
+1 The Ii family played a pivotal role in its construction and continued preservation, ensuring its legacy for future generations. Exploring Hikone Castle provides a tangible connection to Japan's feudal past. The intricate stonework, the imposing keep, and the surrounding defensive structures all tell a story of samurai warfare and the power of the feudal lords.
Beyond the Keep: Exploring the Castle Grounds and Gardens
The Genkyu-en Garden, located adjacent to the castle, is a prime example of a traditional Japanese landscape garden from the Edo period.
+1Visitors often remark on the peaceful atmosphere of the gardens, providing a welcome respite from the more imposing structures of the castle. The blend of natural beauty and historical architecture makes exploring the entire castle complex a rich and rewarding experience.
The Charm of Hikonyan: Hikone's Beloved Mascot
+1 Introduced to promote the city and its castle, Hikonyan is an anthropomorphic cat dressed as a samurai, embodying the spirit of Hikone. He is a constant presence in the city, appearing on merchandise, local events, and even in animated videos. Meeting Hikonyan is often a highlight for visitors, especially families. While he may not always be physically present, his image is ubiquitous, adding a fun and lighthearted element to the historical site.
+1 The mascot's design is simple yet effective, making him instantly recognizable and beloved by both locals and tourists. Hikonyan's popularity underscores Hikone's successful approach to blending historical preservation with modern tourism. He serves as a friendly ambassador, drawing attention to the castle and encouraging visitors to explore the charm of Hikone city.
+1
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