National Treasure Hikone Castle
Shiga Prefecture Kotoh Area
Hikone Castle is counted as one of the greatest castles in Japan along with Himeji Castle. The castle looks really beautiful under the moon light - this view is counted as one of the eight scenes of Lake Biwa. The castle was never damaged by fires during wartime or by government policies and its solemn atmosphere still remain today. Before the castle was built, there was a temple on top of Mt. Hikone. The temple has a statue of Kannon with a golden turtle on its head. So the castle is also called Kinkame Castle (golden-turtle castle). It is designated as a special national historic site.
Address
1-1, Konki-cho, Hikone city
Access (nearest railway station)
Get off at "Hikone" station on the JR Biwako line and walk for 15 minutes/ 10 minutes by car from Hikone IC on Meishin Expressway.
Hours
8:30～17:00
Closed
Open throughout the year
Entry fee
Adults 500yen, Children 200yen ※Group discount available (30people/10% off, 100 people/20%off, 300people/30%off)
Parking
Parking for 280 passenger cars (400yen) and 25 large-sized buses (1500yen)
Inquiries
Hikone Castle 0749-22-2742