Hikone

Hikone stretches along the eastern shores of Lake Biwa, with mountains rising in the distance and traditional architecture dotting the landscape.

The construction of Hikone Castle began in 1603 under Ii Naomasa, incorporating materials from other fortresses, and reached completion in 1622 under his son.

Local artisans maintain the centuries-old tradition of manufacturing butsudan, Buddhist household altars featuring intricate wood carvings and decorative elements.

The Japan Rail Biwako Line connects Hikone to major cities, with trains departing regularly from Kyoto Station for a 47-minute journey.

The castle includes a distinctive spiral ramp called mizunote, designed to slow down potential attackers while providing defenders strategic positions.

Location: Shiga Prefecture

Inception: February 11, 1937

Website: https://www.city.hikone.lg.jp/ja/

Shares border with: Maihara, Higashiomi, Taga, Kora, Toyosato, Aisho

Website: https://city.hikone.lg.jp/ja

GPS coordinates: 35.27436,136.25972

Latest update: May 28, 2025 18:14