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Product #569541
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[Departing from Nagoya] Hikone Castle + Lake Biwa + Omihachiman + Shirahige Shrine + Kurokabe Square Luxury Day Trip | Comfortable Business Van + Minimum 4 People
[Departing from Nagoya] Hikone Castle + Lake Biwa + Omihachiman + Shirahige Shrine + Kurokabe Square Luxury Day Trip | Comfortable Business Van + Minimum 4 People
[Departing from Nagoya] Hikone Castle + Lake Biwa + Omihachiman + Shirahige Shrine + Kurokabe Square Luxury Day Trip | Comfortable Business Van + Minimum 4 People
[Departing from Nagoya] Hikone Castle + Lake Biwa + Omihachiman + Shirahige Shrine + Kurokabe Square Luxury Day Trip | Comfortable Business Van + Minimum 4 People
[Departing from Nagoya] Hikone Castle + Lake Biwa + Omihachiman + Shirahige Shrine + Kurokabe Square Luxury Day Trip | Comfortable Business Van + Minimum 4 People

[Departing from Nagoya] Hikone Castle + Lake Biwa + Omihachiman + Shirahige Shrine + Kurokabe Square Luxury Day Trip | Comfortable Business Van + Minimum 4 People


Booking confirmation: within 4 days before the departure
Duration:10 hour(s)
Guided language: 中文
Free cancellation 4 day(s) prior to experience date
Please present the e-voucher on-site

【Highlights】Famous water town in central Japan + delightful lakeside lunch + mysterious underwater shrine + visit to artisans making glass crafts 【Instagrammable Spot】La Collina Omihachiman cleverly utilizes the natural ecology of the "sacred mountain" behind it, offering the brand's signature desserts and gourmet experiences 【Attentive Service】Comfortable business/minibus throughout the trip + door-to-door pick-up and drop-off within 2km of the meeting point + experienced driver for a safe journey

[5% App discount] Code: APP5OFF , HK: APP15HK

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Sightseeing Tours

Tour TypeShared tour, Small Group
Transportation methodTransfer from meeting point, Hotel transfer
Minimum participant requirement4 travelers
Meal arrangementArrange yourself
Additional service & facilityTransfer included
Sightseeing typeNatural sights, Temples & shrines, Historic site tour
TransportCharter car

Product Info

The content of this product is provided by machine translation and may not reflect the actual information, please take this into consideration before booking.

▼Hikone Castle, located in Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan, is one of the twelve existing castle towers in Japan. It is designated as a National Treasure and is hailed as "a perfect example of early modern castles." This ancient castle, which was first built in the 17th century, is renowned for its unique architectural aesthetics, profound historical heritage, and design that coexists with nature, making it an outstanding representative of Japanese cultural heritage.

▼Hikone Castle, located in Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan, is one of the twelve existing castle towers in Japan. It is designated as a National Treasure and is hailed as "a perfect example of early modern castles." This ancient castle, which was first built in the 17th century, is renowned for its unique architectural aesthetics, profound historical heritage, and design that coexists with nature, making it an outstanding representative of Japanese cultural heritage.

▼Lake Biwa is a freshwater lake in central Shiga Prefecture, Japan. Shaped like the traditional musical instrument biwa, it is considered one of the symbols of Japan, along with Mount Fuji. This ancient lake, formed 4 to 6 million years ago, is not only the drinking water source for 14 million people in the Keihan area, but is also world-renowned for its rich natural ecology, profound historical heritage, and diverse tourism experiences.

▼Lake Biwa is a freshwater lake in central Shiga Prefecture, Japan. Shaped like the traditional musical instrument biwa, it is considered one of the symbols of Japan, along with Mount Fuji. This ancient lake, formed 4 to 6 million years ago, is not only the drinking water source for 14 million people in the Keihan area, but is also world-renowned for its rich natural ecology, profound historical heritage, and diverse tourism experiences.

▼La Collina means "hill" in Italian. In March 2012, the world-renowned Italian designer Michel de Lucchi came to Omihachiman and was inspired by the harmonious atmosphere between people and nature and the beautiful terraced fields. Thus, the name "La Collina" came about.

▼La Collina means "hill" in Italian. In March 2012, the world-renowned Italian designer Michel de Lucchi came to Omihachiman and was inspired by the harmonious atmosphere between people and nature and the beautiful terraced fields. Thus, the name "La Collina" came about.

▼Shirohige Shrine is an ancient shrine in Omi Province, with a history of over 2000 years. It is also the head shrine of all Shirohige shrines in the country. Architectural History: The current shrine buildings were built by Hideyori, son of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Katagiri Katsumoto served as the prefectural governor. During the Meiji period, it was rebuilt and connected to the main shrine, resulting in the complex roof shape we see today. Architectural Features: Water-based Torii Gate: The torii gate in front of Shirohige Shrine is a large vermilion torii gate built on the water. It is probably the second most famous water-based torii gate after Itsukushima, and it is also the shrine's iconic landmark. It looks particularly magnificent against the backdrop of Lake Biwa.

▼Shirohige Shrine is an ancient shrine in Omi Province, with a history of over 2000 years. It is also the head shrine of all Shirohige shrines in the country. Architectural History: The current shrine buildings were built by Hideyori, son of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Katagiri Katsumoto served as the prefectural governor. During the Meiji period, it was rebuilt and connected to the main shrine, resulting in the complex roof shape we see today. Architectural Features: Water-based Torii Gate: The torii gate in front of Shirohige Shrine is a large vermilion torii gate built on the water. It is probably the second most famous water-based torii gate after Itsukushima, and it is also the shrine's iconic landmark. It looks particularly magnificent against the backdrop of Lake Biwa.

▼Kurokabe Plaza is located in Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan. It is hidden in a corner of an old street and is centered around the former Nagahama branch of the No. 130 Bank. It was redeveloped by transforming ancient buildings such as Edo-era shops into shops and art galleries. The Nagahama branch building was built in 1900 and has black lacquered walls.

▼Kurokabe Plaza is located in Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan. It is hidden in a corner of an old street and is centered around the former Nagahama branch of the No. 130 Bank. It was redeveloped by transforming ancient buildings such as Edo-era shops into shops and art galleries. The Nagahama branch building was built in 1900 and has black lacquered walls.

Purchase Notice

[Tourism Conditions]

Travel departure point and destination: Aichi-Shiga

Trip duration: Day trip

Transportation: Business van, luxury business van

Bus company name: RBC Earth Tourism and similar

Meals provided: Breakfast 0 times, Lunch 0 times, Dinner 0 times

Accommodation facilities: None

Minimum group size: 4

Team Leader: None

Tour guide: None

【Travel Planning/Implementation】

Operating Company Name: Chuwa Travel Co., Ltd.

Address: No. 18, 2-chome, Chuketsucho, Gifu City

License exemption number: Gifu Prefectural Governor Registration Travel Industry No. 2-328

Travel Association Name: ANTA National Tourism Association (Regular Member)

Reminders

  • A minimum of 4 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date

  • In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 09:00). Notifications will then be sent via email

  • Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: High blood pressure, Heart disease, Acrophobia, Asthma, Pregnant women, Epilepsy

  • Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time

  • After order confirmation, if you need to change the date, it is recommended to ask customer service if it can be changed. If the date cannot be changed, you will be responsible for any losses incurred.

  • If you are late due to personal reasons, you will need to make your own way to the next meeting point to join the tour (transportation costs are your own responsibility). No refunds will be given for non-participation or cancellation of the tour; please take note.

  • When making a reservation, please be sure to provide complete information (name + number of people + phone number + WeChat ID + pick-up location) to avoid errors that may affect your trip.

  • Please keep your passport and valuables with you at all times during the trip. You will be responsible for any loss, theft, or damage.

  • Elderly individuals, those with hypertension, heart disease or other cardiovascular diseases, and pregnant women are advised to have family members accompany them.

  • This tour does not accept bookings from customers under the age of 18 who are traveling alone. If you wish to book this tour, please have a guardian book it with you.

  • This is a fixed-route shared tour. Customers participating in this tour are requested to adhere to the designated time limits at each attraction and follow the driver/guide's instructions. For a more flexible itinerary, please refer to our private charter car tour services.

  • No refunds will be given for any absences or cancellations due to personal issues, lateness, or other reasons. Please take note.

  • If you leave the group midway through the trip, the transaction will be considered invalid, and no refund will be given. Furthermore, you will be solely responsible for any personal injury or property damage resulting from this.

  • Arrival times for each itinerary may vary depending on traffic conditions, weather, holidays, and crowds. We apologize for any delays or cancellations caused by the aforementioned factors or other unforeseen circumstances, and no refunds will be provided on such grounds.

  • Please wear comfortable, travel-appropriate clothing and shoes for this trip.

  • Please be sure to comply with local Japanese laws and regulations, and do not bring any items prohibited by Japanese law, so as to avoid violating the law and affecting your own rights.

  • During free time, you should pay attention to your personal safety and property security. If you do not heed the advice and an accident or loss occurs, you will be responsible for the consequences.

  • Due to the unpredictability of factors such as traffic conditions, weather, holidays, and crowds on the day of travel, arrival times for each itinerary may vary. According to Japanese law, the maximum working time for a driver is 10 hours. To ensure driver safety and smooth driving, itineraries may be adjusted based on actual circumstances, including reducing sightseeing time at attractions or canceling certain attractions. We sincerely hope that our passengers will understand and support these adjustments made while prioritizing safety.

  • We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause due to the aforementioned or other unforeseen circumstances. Please understand our position; we will not be able to offer a refund. This decision is made out of responsibility for the safety of the driver and passengers, and to ensure the smooth operation of the entire team.

  • We are always committed to providing you with the best travel experience, but in some cases, we need to flexibly adjust our itinerary plans based on actual circumstances. Thank you for your understanding and support.

  • Other force majeure events may include, but are not limited to: Natural disasters: Natural disasters such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, and typhoons may affect the itinerary. Traffic accidents: Road traffic accidents and traffic jams may cause itinerary delays. Weather conditions: Severe weather conditions, such as heavy snow, heavy rain, and dense fog, may affect transportation and itinerary arrangements. Government regulations: Emergency regulations and traffic controls issued by the government may lead to itinerary changes. Health emergencies: Sudden health problems of passengers or group members may require first aid and emergency treatment, leading to itinerary changes. Social events: Events such as strikes, protests, and social unrest may have unpredictable impacts on transportation and itinerary. Mechanical failures: Mechanical failures of means of transport (such as vehicles) may cause itinerary delays.

Cancellation Policy

  • Cancellations 4 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
  • For cancellations made 2 to 3 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 50% will apply
  • Cancellation is not allowed between 0–1 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
NOTE
  • Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.

FAQ

1. Who built Hikone Castle and when was it constructed?

Hikone Castle was primarily constructed between 1604 and 1622 under the orders of Ii Naokatsu, the eldest son of Ii Naomasa. It was built following the Battle of Sekigahara to secure the region for the Tokugawa Shogunate and serve as the stronghold for the influential Ii clan throughout the Edo period.

2. What unique architectural features or historical aspects make Hikone Castle noteworthy?

Hikone Castle is a designated National Treasure of Japan, preserving its original main keep and various structures from the Edo period. Its unique features include a complex defensive design, such as multiple turrets, gates, and moats. The castle grounds also house the beautiful Genkyuen Garden, a traditional daimyo garden designed in the style of a Chinese landscape garden.

3. Why was Hikone Castle preserved unlike many other castles in Japan?

Hikone Castle was one of the few castles that avoided destruction during the Meiji Restoration, a period when many feudal castles were dismantled. Its preservation is often attributed to a direct petition from Emperor Meiji himself during a visit, recognizing its significant historical and architectural value and ultimately saving it from demolition.

4. Which prominent samurai clan was associated with Hikone Castle?

Hikone Castle was the domain of the powerful Ii clan, one of the most distinguished and trusted daimyo families under the Tokugawa shogunate. The Ii clan played a crucial role in the shogunate's administration and governance throughout the Edo period, making the castle a symbol of their power and influence.

5. Is Hikone Castle designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site or National Treasure?

Hikone Castle is not a UNESCO World Heritage site. However, it holds the prestigious designation as a National Treasure of Japan, a status shared by only five castles in the country. This title recognizes its exceptional historical, cultural, and architectural significance, highlighting its value as a preserved original castle.

6. What are the main highlights or must-see areas when visiting Hikone Castle?

When visiting Hikone Castle, key highlights include exploring the original three-story main keep, which offers panoramic views. Don't miss the beautiful Genkyuen Garden, designed as a stroll garden, and the castle's various original gates and turrets, such as the Tenbin Yagura. The Hikone Castle Museum, located within the grounds, also showcases artifacts of the Ii clan.

7. What is the best time of year to visit Hikone Castle for scenic views?

Hikone Castle offers beautiful scenery year-round. Spring (late March to early April) is ideal for cherry blossom viewing, as the castle grounds are adorned with hundreds of sakura trees. Autumn (late October to November) provides stunning fall foliage, creating a vibrant backdrop around the castle and garden. Summer offers lush greenery, while winter can present picturesque snow-covered landscapes.

8. What kind of views can be expected from Hikone Castle's main keep?

From the main keep of Hikone Castle, visitors can enjoy expansive panoramic views. These include sweeping vistas of the surrounding city of Hikone, the vast blue expanse of Lake Biwa (Japan's largest freshwater lake), and on clear days, the distant mountain ranges of Shiga and Gifu prefectures, offering a comprehensive regional outlook.

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