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If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Hikone.
Step into a world steeped in tradition and history, as Hikone beckons you to explore the secrets of Japan’s past.
Discover the heart of Japanese culture, explore its timeless temples and learn the art of tea-making.
The city’s stunning architecture and serene landscapes will leave you awed and inspired, as you journey through a land of exquisite beauty and unique experiences.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Hikone:
1. Hikone Castle
Hikone Castle is a Japanese castle located in the city of Hikone, in Shiga prefecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour the castle, climb to the top of the main tower for stunning views of Lake Biwa, and explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the castle.
Don’t miss: The Yume Kyobashi Castle Road, a replica of the old street from the Edo period, and the Hikone Castle Museum located inside the castle.
Insider travel tips: Check the official website for special events and exhibitions, and arrive early to avoid the crowds. For an extra special experience, visit during the annual Hikone Castle Festival in November.
2. Genkyuen Garden
Genkyuen Garden situated in Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, is a traditional Japanese landscape garden and cultural heritage of Hikone Castle.
What to see or do: Genkyuen is well known for its exquisite landscaping and seasonal scenery. Visitors can stroll around the pond, cross bridges and enjoy the garden’s views.
There are tea houses, a waterfall, a bamboo grove, cherry blossom trees, and a bamboo fence. The garden also offers a night time illumination show that beautifully highlights the garden’s charm.
Don’t miss: The garden’s tea ceremony is an excellent way to experience Japanese culture while enjoying the garden’s scenery. Moreover, the unique shape of nearby Mount Hiei creates a beautiful backdrop to the garden, which is hard to forget.
Insider travel tips: The garden is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing, and visitors should not miss the garden’s night time illumination during this season.
Moreover, avoid visiting the garden during weekends and holidays to have a quieter experience. There are several souvenir shops and cafes near the garden to explore.
Getting to Genkyuen Garden is easy, and it takes a 20-minute walk or five-minute taxi ride from Hikone Station.
3. Yume-Kyobashi Castle Road
Yume-Kyobashi Castle Road is a historic street located in Hikone, Japan, which runs from Hikone Castle to Asahi-machi Station.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll down the charming street, which is lined with traditional Edo-era buildings, shops, and restaurants. The street also offers stunning views of Hikone Castle and Lake Biwa.
Don’t miss: The Hikone Castle Museum, which houses a unique collection of historical artifacts, including samurai armor and weaponry.
Another must-see attraction is the Genkyuen Garden, located near the end of the street, which offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to try the local specialty dish, funazushi, which is a type of fermented sushi made from Lake Biwa’s endemic crucian carp.
And don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beautiful scenery and architecture of Yume-Kyobashi Castle Road.
4. Hikone Castle Museum
A museum located inside the Hikone Castle in Shiga Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum showcases the history and culture of the Hikone Castle and the surrounding area. Visitors can see various exhibits related to the castle’s architecture, artifacts, and artwork.
The castle itself is also a must-see attraction.
Don’t miss: The panoramic view from the top of the castle tower is definitely worth seeing. The castle grounds also offer several walking trails and beautiful gardens.
Insider travel tips: Visitors can join a guided tour to learn more about the castle’s history. It’s recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds.
The best time to visit is during the spring cherry blossom season or in late autumn for the colorful foliage.
5. Hikone Castle Tower
A five-story castle tower located in Hikone, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb up to the top floor of the tower to enjoy panoramic views of the city and the nearby Lake Biwa.
The interior of the tower features displays of armor and weapons from the samurai era.
Don’t miss: The view from the top floor of the tower is simply breathtaking – make sure to bring your camera!
Insider travel tips: Take your time exploring the grounds surrounding the castle, as there are many beautiful gardens and historic structures to discover.
If you’re visiting in April, don’t miss the Hikone Castle Sakura Matsuri, a cherry blossom festival that features traditional music performances and food vendors.
6. Hachimanbori Canal
A picturesque canal located in Hikone, Japan, offering a serene atmosphere and a glimpse into the Edo period of Japan.
What to see or do: – Stroll along the canal and admire the traditional architecture of the surrounding buildings.
Don’t miss: – The annual Hachimanbori River Lantern Festival, where hundreds of lanterns are floated down the canal at night.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the autumn season for stunning views of the colorful foliage reflected in the canal.
7. Hikone Castle Festival
A traditional cultural festival held annually at Hikone Castle in Shiga Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy various performances including traditional taiko drumming, horseback archery, and a parade of people dressed in historical costumes. Tour the castle grounds and watch a fireworks display over Lake Biwa.
Don’t miss: The main event where samurai warriors dressed in traditional armor recreate a dramatic battle scene from the castle’s history.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the events. Consider renting a kimono or samurai costume to fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Don’t forget to try local specialty foods like Omi beef and sake brewed in Shiga Prefecture.
8. Yonbancho Square
Yonbancho Square is a charming and picturesque town square located in Hikone, a city in Shiga Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Stroll around the square and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and lovely scenery of traditional Japanese architecture. The square is surrounded by quaint shops and eateries, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the Yonbancho Square Market, which sells a variety of fresh produce and handmade goods, including local specialties such as Hikone Castle-shaped rice crackers.
Insider travel tips: Make the most of your visit by timing it right – the square comes alive during special events and festivals such as the Hikone Castle Festival in November and the Yonbancho Summer Festival in August.
If you’re a history buff, don’t miss a visit to nearby Hikone Castle, one of the few original castles remaining in Japan.
9. Hikone City Aquarium
A small aquarium situated in Hikone City, Japan showcasing various aquatic creatures.
What to see or do: Explore the diverse marine life and get up close and personal with sea animals such as sea horses, jellyfish, and sea turtles.
Don’t miss: Witness the popular dolphin shows that take place in the aquarium’s huge dolphin pool.
Insider travel tips:
10. Hikone Shrine
Hikone Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Hikone, Japan. It is dedicated to the deity, Sata-no-kami.
What to see or do: Visitors can see the beautiful architecture of the shrine, which was constructed during the Edo period. The shrine is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere.
You can also witness traditional Japanese rituals at the shrine.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the main hall of the shrine, which features intricate wood carvings and is a stunning example of Japanese architecture.
The shrine also has a beautiful garden, which boasts colorful flowers and a tranquil pond.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit the shrine is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its best.
11. Daishiji Temple
Daishiji Temple is a peaceful and historically rich Buddhist temple located in Hikone, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning architecture of the temple buildings within the well-manicured grounds, wander through the beautiful Japanese gardens, and witness the daily lives of monks who reside there.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Daishiji Temple is the stunning cherry blossom display every spring, which draws crowds of visitors to the temple.
Additionally, the temple is home to some impressive Buddhist art, including many scrolls and statues.
Insider travel tips: Take a moment to sit in the serene garden spaces and appreciate the tranquil atmosphere. Also, consider visiting during the quieter times of day to get the most intimate experience of this remarkable temple.
12. Nishinomaru Garden
A stunning Japanese landscape garden located in Hikone, Shiga prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the garden and admire the stunning array of seasonal flowers, trees and plants, including cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant maple leaves in autumn.
Don’t miss: The panoramic views of Hikone Castle, also known as the “White Heron Castle,” which can be seen from the garden.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Nishinomaru Garden is during the autumn foliage season in late November.
Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds and don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery.
13. Ryotanji Temple
Ryotanji Temple is a peaceful Buddhist temple located in Hikone, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple’s beautiful gardens, which feature a koi pond and a variety of plants and trees. The main hall of the temple contains several impressive statues and paintings, including a beautiful ceiling painting of a dragon.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the temple’s unique layout, which is designed to align with the seasons and the changing position of the sun.
The temple’s founders also designed the space to provide a sense of distance and perspective, which creates a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: For the best experience, visit the temple early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the crowds are smaller and the light is softer.
The temple is also located near Hikone Castle, so consider combining a visit to the temple with a trip to the castle for a full day of sightseeing.