Things To Do
in Hikone
Hikone is a historic city on the southwestern shore of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, known for its well-preserved Edo-period streets. The centerpiece is Hikone Castle, a National Treasure that overlooks the lake and green surrounds. The town's Honmachi district preserves traditional merchant houses and tea houses, making for a charming, walkable core.
Visitors enjoy scenic lake views, peaceful gardens, and easy access to nearby nature trails.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Hikone Castle, one of Japan's most beautiful and well-preserved castles. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of Lake Biwa and the surrounding gardens. After exploring the castle, stroll through the adjacent Genkyuen Garden, where you can enjoy the serene landscape and seasonal flowers.
For lunch, head to a local restaurant and try some Hikone specialty dishes, like 'Biwako sushi' or 'Hikone beef'. Afterward, visit the Hikone Castle Museum to delve deeper into the history and artifacts related to the castle. Spend some time wandering the historical streets of the city, lined with traditional merchant houses.
As the sun sets, find a cozy izakaya to experience authentic Japanese dining and local sake. Engage with locals and learn about their stories while enjoying dishes made from seasonal ingredients. Wrap up your evening with a leisurely walk along the banks of Lake Biwa, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Taga Taisha Shrine, known for its stunning architecture and tranquil atmosphere. Participate in a traditional Shinto purification ritual, and appreciate the serene surroundings that will set a peaceful tone for the day. Don’t forget to explore the picturesque pathways lined with trees leading up to the shrine.
After your shrine visit, enjoy a traditional kaiseki lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can sample multiple courses prepared with seasonal ingredients. Visit the nearby Kōrin-ji Temple, famous for its beautiful gardens and unique statues. Spend some time meditating or simply enjoying the tranquil environment.
As night falls, return to Hikone and explore the local shopping streets. Stop by a tea house to experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, immersing yourself in the culture and history of tea in Japan. End your evening with a serene walk by the lake, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $1-2 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
| 🏯Entrance to Hikone Castle | $6-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and well-preserved castle town
- Stunning Lake Biwa views and relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Some may encounter language barriers outside tourist spots
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" - Thank you very much
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Toire wa doko desu ka?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Hikone
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture the iconic castle with Lake Biwa to the background from the castle grounds and surrounding viewpoints; best during golden hour.
Kodama ponds, wooden bridges, and koi provide classic Japanese garden photography, especially with autumn foliage or spring blossoms.
Photograph Edo-period merchant houses and preserved storefronts along cobbled streets, ideal for atmospheric street photography.
Food in Hikone
Hikone Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional fermented sushi made with lake fish (funao/funa) and rice; a regional specialty best sampled at fish shops or traditional eateries around the castle area.
Must-Try!
Premium wagyu beef from the Omi region, often served as sukiyaki or shabu-shabu in local izakayas and restaurants near Honmachi.
Sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, a regional takeaway favorite that pairs well with a lake stroll.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal street food and fresh produce stalls along the historic streets; look for grilled fish, onigiri, pickles, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A slight bow is polite when meeting or thanking someone; a handshake is less common in traditional settings.
Remove shoes when entering homes, certain traditional spaces, and some temples; keep spaces tidy and quiet in public places.
Speak softly in public spaces and maintain orderly lines at stations and shops.
Safety
Tipping in Hikone
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected as standard. A small reward is rarely necessary and may be refused in some places.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in smaller shops and markets. Credit cards are common in larger restaurants and hotels; some shops and rural establishments may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with occasional rain; stay hydrated, carry a small umbrella, and plan early-morning or late-evening activities to avoid peak heat.
Pleasant temperatures and vivid fall colors around Genkyu-en and lake views; ideal for outdoor photography and strolls.
Cool to cold with possible light snow; some outdoor sites may be chilly but the castle and gardens offer serene winter scenery.
Mild temperatures and cherry blossoms along streets and parks; great for walking tours and photography.
Hikone at Night
Hiking in Hikone
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible loops along the western shore offering gentle to moderate terrain and scenic lake vistas.
Short hikes and nature strolls with forest scenery and occasional viewpoints over the lake region.
Airports
How to reach Hikone by plane.
Mainly serves domestic and international flights; about 60-90 minutes by rail from Hikone, with accessible rail connections via the JR network.
Major international gateway; roughly 2-3 hours by rail from Hikone with transfers via JR lines to Biwako area.
Nagoya's international airport; reachable by train with a combination of JR lines and express services; useful for connections within Japan and Asia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time families and aging population, with a strong sense of community around traditional districts.
People visiting for history, culture, and university-affiliated programs; steady stream of day-trippers from Osaka and Kyoto.
Domestic and international travelers drawn to the castle, lake views, and historic streets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at school and community levels; you may catch local games or seasonal tournaments.
Local clubs and youth programs; shared community spaces for casual play and matches.
World-famous Lake Biwa cycling routes attract riders; bike rentals are common near tourist zones.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hikone.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted; be mindful of dashi-based broths in soups and noodle dishes. Opt for tofu, vegetable tempura, and rice bowls; ask for soy-based sauces without meat stock when possible.