Time
approx. 7 hoursStarts 9am
Active Level
Group Size
1–5 guestsPricing
Go beyond the usual castle visit—step into hidden corners of Hikone’s samurai heritage on an immersive journey.
- Walk streets with a strategic, maze-like layout designed to defend the castle town.
- Discover neighborhoods once home to samurai, artisans, and townspeople.
- Enjoy tea at Genkyuen Garden, evoking the elegance of castle life.
- Meet friendly locals and experience the gentle pace of life in a town where Edo-period charm quietly endures.
- Guided by local residents who share personal stories and offer meaningful cultural connections.
Course Details
Hikone Castle is more than a historical site—it’s a living story of Japan’s early Edo period. Built after the Tokugawa victory at Sekigahara in 1600 and governed by the Ii family for over 250 years, it blends military strategy with quiet beauty. It’s one of only five castles designated as National Treasures, alongside Himeji Castle. Walking toward it through the town’s intricate street layout reveals how both artistry and defense shaped the daily life and legacy of this castle town.
This 1-day walking tour begins at JR Maibara Station, where you’ll meet your guide. Together, you’ll board the Ohmi Railway for a short ride to the outskirts of Hikone’s castle town. From this historical entry point, we begin our walk through streets once designed to confuse intruders—narrow, angled, and strategic by design.
Along the way, explore districts where samurai once lived, artisan alleys where crafts were honed, and merchant quarters that supported castle life. Visit preserved ashigaru (foot soldier) residences that reveal the simpler side of samurai service.
At midday, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, thoughtfully recommended by your guide for an authentic taste of the town. After lunch, it’s time to ascend the castle—a gentle hike up the small hill that holds the fortress, followed by a climb up the steep stairs inside the keep itself. Along the way, experience the structure not just as a monument, but as a living example of defensive design and architectural skill, blending elegance with ingenious defenses.
After exploring the castle grounds, unwind with a quiet tea at Genkyuen Garden, reflecting on the cultural sophistication the Ii lords once cultivated here.
The tour concludes at JR Hikone Station or JR Maibara Station, where your guide will assist with directions or onward travel.
Course Notes
- Seasonal operation: Throughout the year (except Aug & year-end/New Year holidays)
- This one-day course starts at 9 am.
- Meeting and ending point: Meet at JR Maibara Station; tour concludes at either JR Hikone Station or Maibara Station
- Suitable for age 13 & up
- Tour runs rain or shine; please bring appropriate rain gear or a waterproof jacket.
- Wear casual clothing and comfortable walking shoes for the 8 km walk
- Please inform us in advance of any food allergies for all participants or dietary requests such as vegetarian or vegan meals.
- We strongly recommend purchasing appropriate travel insurance in advance. Although minimal insurance is included.
What’s Included
- Professional bilingual (EN/JA) guide
- Ohmi Railway fare from Maibara Sta to the castle area
- Admission Fee
- Tea at Genkyuen Garden
Not Included
- Lunch
- Transportation to/from Maibara Station
- JR fare from Hikone Station to Maibara Station after the tour
- Souvenirs, food, snacks, etc.
Meeting Point
Meet your guide right at the ticket gate of JR Maibara Station. By bullet train, Maibara is 1 stop east (20 min) from Kyoto. The guide will then join you for a short local train ride to Hikone-guchi, the actual tour site. The tour will conclude at Hikone or Maibara Station.
Pricing
This is an exclusive private tour — just for your group.
Private Tour Pricing (effective June 1, 2025)
| Description | Price (excl. tax) |
|---|---|
| Base Rate (2-guest group) Solo travelers pay a 2-guest rate (¥50,000) |
¥25,000 / person |
| Additional guest (up to 5 guests total) | +¥10,000 per person |
*10% consumption tax will be added to the above prices.
*Bookings made before Oct 1, 2025 will be charged the original rate.