10 Things to Do in Hikone City

10 Things to Do in Hikone City
10 Things to Do in Hikone City

Hikone (彦根市) is a city located in Shiga Prefecture, Japan. Established in 1889, Hikone officially became a city on February 11, 1937, through the merger with the villages of Matsubara, Aonami, Kitaaoyagi, Fukumitsu, and Chimoto. The city is renowned for its textile industry and is distinguished as a prominent producer of butsudan (Buddhist altars) and valves. The kanji characters comprising its name, hiko () meaning "boy or young lad" and ne () meaning "root," symbolically represent both the essence of youthful vitality and the foundational roots of its community.

For those planning to visit the city to check what it has to offer, here are the 10 Things to Do in Hikone City:

Hikone City manhole covers
Hikone City manhole covers

1. Take a picture of the manhole covers of Hikone City. So far, I have seen 2 unique manhole covers. The one on the left is common around the city while the manhole cover on the right is installed in front of Hikone Station.  


Shiga Prefecture Gokoku Shrine (滋賀縣護國神社)
Shiga Prefecture Gokoku Shrine

2. Visit the Shiga Prefecture Gokoku Shrine (滋賀縣護國神社). This beautiful shrine is near Hikone Castle so it’s good to include it in the itinerary. You can pay your respects and offer prayers here any time of the day. Don’t forget to avail of the shrine’s goshuin if you are collecting them. 


Lakeside Green Space Minami Mitsuya (湖岸緑地 南三ツ谷)
Lakeside Green Space Minami Mitsuya

3. Stroll around and enjoy the view of Lake Biwa at Lakeside Green Space Minami Mitsuya (湖岸緑地 南三ツ谷). This place is also a good camping spot. 

Gokurakuyu Hikone (極楽湯 彦根店)
Gokurakuyu Hikone

4. Take a dip at the onsen of Gokurakuyu Hikone (極楽湯 彦根店). Aside from the relaxing dip, there is also a restaurant here worth trying. 


Menya Koyoken (麺や 江陽軒)
Menya Koyoken

5. Try the tsukemen at Menya Koyoken (麺や 江陽軒). Don't miss out on the variety of ramen flavors available at this establishment. Located approximately a 20-minute walk from JR Kawase Station, dining here is a rewarding experience after a pleasant stroll.


Yume Kyobashi Castle Road (夢京橋 キャッスルロード)
Yume Kyobashi Castle Road

6. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of the Edo period at Yume Kyobashi Castle Road (夢京橋 キャッスルロード). Explore numerous shops and restaurants that capture the essence of this historical era.


Kojinyama (荒神山)
Kojinyama

7. Take a leisurely hike up Kojinyama (荒神山). Once you reach the summit, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding fields. At the summit of Kojinyama, you'll discover Kojinyama Shrine (荒神山神社). Remember to bring your goshuincho, as you can collect a goshuin stamp at this shrine.


Hikone Castle Museum (彦根城博物館)
Hikone Castle Museum 

8.  Visit the Hikone Castle Museum (彦根城博物館) and learn about the castle’s history. There are Noh theater costumes and samurai swords on display that are worth seeing in the museum. 

Genkyuen Garden (玄宮園)
Genkyuen Garden

9. Take a leisurely walk and appreciate the serene beauty of Genkyuen Garden (玄宮園). This picturesque garden, dating back to the 17th century, features a tranquil pond that often mirrors its tranquil surroundings.


Hikone Castle (彦根城)
Hikone Castle 

10. Visit Hikone Castle (彦根城). This 17th-century castle is known for its scenic garden and museum. The castle’s keep was designated as a National Treasure in 1952 and is considered the symbol of Hikone City. 

I hope my list of the 10 Things to Do in Hikone City gave you an idea and inspiration to visit this historic city in Shiga Prefecture.


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Read more:

Japan Diaries 4: Summary

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