Experience Hikone Castle Like a Lord! Complete Guide to Lake Biwa Views & Historic Town Stays in Omi
Hello! I'm Hana Matsunaga, a ryokan concierge. Today, I'll guide you through Hikone area in Shiga Prefecture. Picture a national treasure castle, the majestic Lake Biwa, and warm hospitality in historic merchant town accommodations—a journey where history and nature blend seamlessly.
Step Back to the Edo Period at National Treasure Hikone Castle
Hikone Castle was built by the Ii clan, lords of a 350,000-koku domain. The castle keep is designated as a National Treasure, preserving its original Edo-period architecture. Structures like the Tenbin Yagura (scale turret) and Taiko Gate showcase ingenious wartime strategies worth exploring.
The climb to the keep involves some stairs, but the reward at the top is breathtaking—a panoramic view of Lake Biwa. The sparkling water surface looks like a painting. Spring brings cherry blossoms, autumn offers vibrant foliage, each season revealing its unique beauty. Wear comfortable shoes for your visit.
Inside the castle grounds, the Hikone Castle Museum displays artifacts from the Ii family, including suits of armor, swords, and musical instruments. Many items are designated as National Treasures or Important Cultural Properties, offering insights into samurai life of that era. After touring the castle, visit the adjacent Genkyu-en Garden, a beautiful traditional daimyo garden where you can enjoy matcha tea while relaxing by the pond.
Stroll Through the Castle Town with Merchant Heritage
Hikone's castle town area preserves the atmosphere of Edo-period merchant houses. Around the Yonbancho Square area, you can experience traditional Japanese sweets-making workshops and kimono rentals. Walking leisurely through these historic streets while learning about the Omi merchants' philosophy of "sanpo-yoshi" (good for all three: seller, buyer, and society) is truly special.
Traditional confectionery shops offer dango (rice dumplings) made with Omi rice and Umoregi, a local specialty sweet unique to Hikone. Perfect as souvenirs or to enjoy on the spot. The refined, moderately sweet flavors gently revive your tired body.
Enjoy Genuine Hospitality at Lake Biwa Accommodations
Accommodation options in Hikone include lakeside ryokan and city hotels. Each has its charm, so choose based on your travel style.
Luxury Ryokan by Lake Biwa
Rooms with lake views offer sukiyaki or kaiseki cuisine featuring Omi beef. Dinner is served in your room or a private dining area, ensuring a intimate experience. The open-air hot spring baths overlook the lake—the sunset view over the water is absolutely stunning and timeless.
Many ryokan offer a selection of yukata (casual kimono) patterns to choose from, adding to the fun. When you return to your room to find your futon already laid out, you'll feel truly welcomed home.
Mid-Range Hotels & Ryokan
Some accommodations feature popular fermented food buffets using domestic ingredients. Shiga has a rich fermentation culture, offering unique flavors like funazushi (fermented crucian carp sushi) and local sake. Breakfast with dried lake fish and Omi rice porridge gently soothes travel fatigue.
The spacious communal baths are perfect for relaxing. If the accommodation offers private family baths, you can enjoy quality time with family or your partner. I recommend booking in advance, so check with the front desk at check-in.
Budget-Friendly Guesthouses
Guesthouses converted from century-old merchant houses offer opportunities to connect with fellow travelers. Spending evenings in shared spaces, exchanging travel stories, brings many new discoveries. You might also learn local Hikone tips from other guests.
Both dormitory and private room options are available to suit your budget and preferences. If the guesthouse has a kitchen, cooking with local ingredients can be a fun experience.
Boat Trip to Chikubu Island to Experience Lake Country Faith Culture
On your second day, consider taking a boat to Chikubu Island from Hikone Port or Nagahama Port. A 30-minute boat ride brings you to this sacred island floating in the middle of Lake Biwa.
Hogon-ji Temple on Chikubu Island is one of the 33 temples on the Saigoku pilgrimage route. The National Treasure Karamon gate and Important Cultural Property Kannon-do hall are among the historic structures scattered across the island. The entire island is enveloped in a sacred atmosphere—quiet prayer here feels truly purifying. Please refrain from touching historic structures or ritual objects, and show respect during your visit.
There are few dining options on the island, so bring a bento or eat before boarding. After your visit, try kawarake-nage (clay disk throwing) at the port shop. It's said that if your thrown clay disk passes through the torii gate on the water, your wish will come true.
Ideal Timeline for Your Ryokan Stay
For first-time ryokan guests, here's a suggested schedule from check-in to the next morning.
3:00 PM Check-in Complete registration at the front desk and be guided to your room. Confirm yukata size and dinner time.
3:30 PM Relax in Your Room Enjoy tea and sweets while admiring the view. Change into your yukata and explore the facility.
4:00 PM Hot Spring Time A bath before dinner is ideal. This timing avoids crowds. Bring towels from your room or use those provided at the bath.
6:00 PM Dinner Enjoy kaiseki cuisine in your room or dining area. Savor local delicacies like Omi beef and Lake Biwa fish at a leisurely pace.
8:00 PM Evening Stroll In your yukata, take a walk along Lake Biwa. On clear nights, relax on a lakeside bench under the stars.
9:00 PM Second Bath Visit Post-dinner bathing warms you pleasantly. The nighttime open-air bath offers a different atmosphere from daytime.
10:00 PM Bedtime As you slip into your futon, enjoy the gentle tatami fragrance. Confirm breakfast time and rest well.
7:00 AM Wake Up & Morning Bath Bathing in the morning sunlight is exceptional—refreshing and invigorating.
8:00 AM Breakfast Traditional Japanese breakfast with Omi rice and local ingredients. Eat well to start your day energized.
10:00 AM Check-out Buy souvenirs and head to your next destination or board the boat to Chikubu Island.
Hikone's Charms Even on Rainy Days
Rain won't dampen your experience. The Hikone Castle Museum and castle town historical museums are all indoors. Rainy-day Hikone Castle has its own quiet charm. Strolling through Genkyu-en Garden under an umbrella feels like stepping into a historical drama.
Spending a relaxed day at your accommodation is also wonderful. Sip tea while reading in your room or visit the hot spring multiple times. Listening to the rain helps you forget everyday bustle.
Packing List – All You Need
Most ryokan provide yukata, towels, and amenities. But here's a list of items that offer extra peace of mind:
- Comfortable shoes (for castle stairs and stone-paved streets)
- Cardigan or light jacket (for indoor air conditioning)
- Camera and smartphone chargers
- Personal medications (if needed)
- Sunscreen (Lake Biwa sunshine can be intense in summer)
- Plastic bags (convenient for wet towels, etc.)
If the yukata doesn't fit well, ask the front desk for a different size. Don't hesitate to request assistance.
For Guests with Allergies or Dietary Restrictions
Inform the accommodation when booking or at check-in at the latest. Be specific: "I have an egg allergy" or "I'm vegetarian." Many accommodations now offer English support, but if you're concerned, confirm in advance via booking site messages or phone calls.
Recently, more accommodations accommodate diverse dietary needs. Don't hesitate to consult them.
Final Thoughts
A journey to Hikone connects you with history, nature, and warm hospitality. The castle's dignity, Lake Biwa's tranquility, and the accommodation's genuine care—all welcome visitors with open arms.
Even for first-time ryokan guests, this guide ensures confidence. Enjoy Omi's rhythm at your own pace. May your journey feel like being welcomed home.
FAQ
Q1: How long does it take to tour Hikone Castle?
Visiting the keep, museum, and Genkyu-en Garden at a leisurely pace takes 2-3 hours. The castle keep has steep stairs, so comfortable shoes and practical clothing are recommended. During busy periods, there may be a wait to enter the keep, so visiting right after opening or on weekdays is more comfortable. For photography enthusiasts, morning light is beautiful.
Q2: How can I find accommodations that serve Omi beef?
Search booking sites with keywords like "dinner included" and "Omi beef." You can choose cooking methods: sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, or steak. Quality varies by price range, so select according to your budget. Informing the accommodation in advance about your preferred dish helps them prepare better.
Q3: Can families with children stay at ryokan?
Absolutely. Many ryokan offer family plans. When booking, provide children's ages and number for appropriate futon and meal arrangements. Accommodations with private family baths allow relaxed bathing together. Baby food requests are often accommodated—just consult with them.
Q4: Do I need advance reservations for boats to Chikubu Island?
Generally, same-day tickets work, but tourist seasons and weekends can be crowded. Boats depart from Hikone Port, Nagahama Port, and Imazu Port. Round-trip tickets are standard, with 1-2 hours typical for island stays. Checking boat schedules in advance ensures smooth planning.
Q5: Are there English-speaking accommodations?
Yes, they're increasing. Use "English available" filters on booking sites for easier searching. Even without perfect English support, most accommodations respond kindly using translation apps and gestures. Many provide English menu descriptions. If concerned, confirm via message when booking.