Shiga Hikone Castle Day Tour from Japan | National Treasure Hikone Castle・Genkyuen Garden・La Collina Omihachiman | Choice of Sagawa Art Museum or Mitsui Outlet Park | Round-trip from Nagoya
- Hikone Castle | One of Japan's five National Treasure castles, featuring a keep that has survived since the Edo period. Climb the tower for a panoramic view of Lake Biwa and experience the beauty of the ancient stone walls and centuries of history.
- La Collina Omihachiman | A fairy-tale architectural sanctuary: Designed by master architect Terunobu Fujimori, its unique grass roof resembles a scene from The Wizard of Oz. This century-old confectionery brand park is perfect for photos, tasting sweets, and buying souvenirs.
- Sagawa Art Museum | An art space floating on water: A stunning building surrounded by water gardens, appearing as if it is floating on a pond. At sunset, the reflections on the water create a poetic scene where art and the play of light and shadow intertwine.
- Mitsui Outlet Park Shiga Ryuo: One of the largest outlet malls in the Kansai region, offering a massive selection of brand discounts, tax-free shopping, and the chance to taste Omi beef while you shop to your heart's content.
Package Options
Product Info
- Direct from Nagoya, saving you the hassle of transferring between JR trains and buses.
- A curated 'niche and sophisticated' route (National Treasure Castle + Master Architect's natural studio + minimalist art museum on water).
- No rushing through sights; enjoy a high-quality, niche journey of art and nature, with plenty of free time at the popular souvenir destination, La Collina.
- From the historical dust of an Edo-period National Treasure castle to the fairy-tale green fields of Terunobu Fujimori's designs, ending with the sunset glow at the Sagawa Art Museum.
Hikone Castle: Biwa Castle, a national treasure of Japan, is one of the five remaining original castle towers in Japan. Built by the Ii family during the Edo period over twenty years, it perfectly preserves its ancient walls, towers, and defensive structures, making it the most representative historical castle in the Omi region. Climbing to the castle tower's observation deck offers panoramic views of the vast Lake Biwa, a magnificent and expansive vista. The popular mascot "Hikone Cat" is a must- photo spot and a source of endless charm. The castle offers unique scenery in each season: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, autumn foliage, and snow in winter, all beautiful enough to make for a leisurely stroll through the castle and immerse you in the historical atmosphere of a feudal domain during the Edo period.
Genkyuen Garden (Genkyu Rakuen Garden): A nationally renowned Japanese garden adjacent to Hikone Castle, this garden was the exclusive villa of the Hikone Domain lord and is a classic example of a daimyo garden featuring a pond and strolling path. The garden incorporates flowing water from Lake Biwa, designed with inspiration from the Eight Views of Xiaoxiang. The lake's clear reflection of Hikone Castle's keep is a must-see in Shiga. Pavilions, winding bridges, and small islands are scattered throughout the garden, offering ever-changing views and a tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy a Japanese matcha tea ceremony at Hoshodai and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of a Japanese garden.
La Collina Omi Hachiman: Designed by renowned architect Terunobu Fujimori, this super-popular fairytale-style park features a distinctive large expanse of green grass roof, making it a must- photo spot landmark in Omihachiman. The park combines natural green spaces, artistic architecture, and delicious desserts, offering popular freshly baked Baumkuchen and limited-edition wagashi (Japanese sweets). With its lush greenery and therapeutic atmosphere, it's perfect for family walks, Instagram-worthy photos, and relaxing retreats—a trendy, off-the-beaten-path attraction in the Kansai region.
Sagawa Art Museum: Located on the shores of Lake Biwa, this "floating art museum" blends seamlessly with the lake, boasting a minimalist yet sophisticated style. The museum houses a collection of works by renowned artists, including Ikuo Hirayama's classic Japanese paintings, Tadayoshi Sato's sculptures, and Kichizaemon Raku's ceramics. The exhibitions are meticulously crafted, creating a tranquil atmosphere. Combining the natural beauty of the lake with the aesthetics of Eastern art, it's ideal for travelers who appreciate art, slow travel, and a hipster lifestyle.
Mitsui Outlet Park: Shiga Ryuo, located in Ryuo-cho, Shiga Prefecture, is one of the prefecture's most popular outlet shopping centers. It houses numerous Japanese and international brands, covering a wide range of categories including clothing, shoes, bags, sporting goods, and lifestyle products, perfect for travelers to explore and shop freely. The mall boasts a spacious and comfortable environment. In addition to shopping, it also features several restaurants, cafes, and a food court, allowing visitors to enjoy food and leisure activities according to their preferences. As the final stop on a day trip to Shiga, it allows ample free time, enabling travelers to enjoy shopping, dining, and relaxation while appreciating the scenery of Shiga.
Purchase Notice
[Tourism Conditions]
Travel departure point and destination: Aichi and Shiga
Trip duration: Day trip
Transportation: Chartered bus
Bus company name: AMA Transportation, etc.
Meals: Breakfast 0 times, Lunch 0 times, Dinner 0 times
Accommodation facilities: None
Minimum group size: 6
Driver/Tour Leader: 1
Tour guide: 0
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating Company Name: KKT Corporation
Address: No. 1770-23, Kashiwai-cho 1-chome, Kawa City, Chiba Prefecture
License Number: Chiba Prefecture Governor's Registered Travel Agency No. 2-1131
Reminders
A minimum of 6 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 18:00). 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, Epilepsy, Pregnant women
Please arrive at the designated location 15 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
This is a fixed shared tour. Customers participating in this tour are requested to adhere to the time allotted at each attraction and follow the instructions of the driver/guide.
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.
Due to the unpredictability of factors such as traffic conditions, weather, festivals, or crowds on the day of travel, arrival times for each itinerary may vary. Unforeseen circumstances such as traffic jams may occur on weekends and public holidays, and the driver/guide may adjust the itinerary accordingly. Please be prepared for these changes before booking.
For smaller groups, a small vehicle with a driver/guide will be used. Please be aware that this is a shared ride service, meaning other guests will be traveling with you, and parking is not allowed outside of tourist attractions.
Due to climate change, the time when maple leaves turn red may be earlier or later. Once the tour is confirmed, refunds or complaints regarding the tour will not be accepted on the grounds that the maple leaves have not yet turned red. Please be aware of this.
In small group tours where the driver also acts as the guide, the driver's main role is driving, with explanations as a secondary function. A brief introduction will be given on the bus, but the driver will not get off the bus to accompany the tour.
This tour does not accept bookings from customers under the age of 18 traveling alone. If you wish to book, a guardian must book with you. For more flexible itinerary options, please refer to our charter tour services.
Reference vehicle types: 5-8 seater: Toyota Alphard; 9-14 seater: Toyota Hitch or equivalent; 18-22 seater: minibus; 22 or more seater: large bus. The above vehicles are for reference only and will be adjusted according to the number of participants on the day of the tour.
FAQ
1. What are the notable characteristics of Hikone Castle's keep?
Hikone Castle's keep is a designated national treasure and one of Japan's few remaining original Edo period castle keeps. Visitors can ascend to the top to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Biwa. The keep's ancient stone walls and well-preserved architecture offer a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in centuries of Japanese history and traditional castle construction.
2. What is the name of Hikone Castle's official mascot?
Hikone Castle's official mascot is named Hikonyan. This beloved character is famous for its charming appearance, featuring a white cat wearing a samurai helmet. Hikonyan is a prominent figure in promoting the castle and often delights visitors with its public appearances and performances.
3. What unique experiences can visitors enjoy at Hikone Castle?
Visitors at Hikone Castle can explore its national treasure keep, appreciating its authentic Edo-era construction and experiencing the grandeur of a feudal lord's residence. From the keep, stunning 360-degree views of Lake Biwa unfold. Additionally, strolling through the adjoining Genkyuen Garden, a beautifully preserved traditional Japanese landscape garden, offers a peaceful and picturesque experience, reflecting the aesthetics of the past.
4. How much time should I allocate for a visit to Hikone Castle?
A comprehensive visit to Hikone Castle, including its historic keep, museum, and the tranquil Genkyuen Garden, typically requires about 2 to 3 hours. This allows ample time to climb the keep, explore the grounds, learn about its history, and enjoy the garden's serene beauty. If you wish to catch a Hikonyan performance, factor in additional time to your schedule.
5. When does Hikonyan, Hikone Castle's mascot, usually perform?
Hikonyan, Hikone Castle's popular mascot, typically performs at scheduled times throughout the day, often on the castle grounds or at designated areas. The exact performance schedule can vary depending on the season and specific day of the week. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on Hikonyan's appearance times, it is advisable to check the official Hikone Castle website or information boards upon arrival.
6. What are the recommended attractions and activities in the Hikone and Omihachiman areas?
In the Hikone area, the primary recommendation is Hikone Castle, a national treasure, along with its exquisite Genkyuen Garden. For the Omihachiman area, La Collina Omihachiman is a must-visit, known for its unique architecture and confectionery. Depending on your preference, you can also choose between the stunning Sagawa Art Museum, an art space surrounded by water, or Mitsui Outlet Park Shiga Ryuo, a large outlet mall for shopping.
7. What makes La Collina Omihachiman a distinctive destination for architecture and sweets?
La Collina Omihachiman stands out for its whimsical, fairytale-like architecture designed by master architect Terunobu Fujimori, featuring unique grass-covered roofs that create a magical atmosphere. It's also home to a century-old Japanese confectionery brand, allowing visitors to indulge in delicious sweets, take picturesque photos amidst the enchanting buildings, and purchase delightful local souvenirs, making it a truly distinctive experience.
8. What can visitors expect from Sagawa Art Museum or Mitsui Outlet Park Shiga Ryuo?
Sagawa Art Museum offers a serene art experience in a stunning building that appears to float on water, surrounded by picturesque water gardens, especially beautiful at sunset. Visitors can appreciate diverse art collections in a tranquil setting. Alternatively, Mitsui Outlet Park Shiga Ryuo is one of Kansai's largest outlet malls, providing extensive duty-free shopping opportunities from numerous international and domestic brands, along with options to savor local delicacies like Omi beef.
