Hikone Castle was founded in 1603 by Ii Naokatsu and is listed as a National Treasure of Japan and a Special Historic Site. The castle ticket also covers Genkyu-en Garden, and entry to the Hikone City Museum of History and the stable is free.
The catch is the climb. The main keep sits well above the entrance, reached on foot up a long flight of steps, and the stairs inside the keep are steep; there are no ramps or elevators. From a wheelchair, what can be seen is limited to the area around the moat, Hikone Castle Museum, the Hikone City Museum of History and the pleasure boat.
Plan the end of the day around the buildings: the keep and turrets close before the grounds do, so that visitors are out by closing time. Chosho-an, the tea house next to the Time-Keeping Bell, serves light matcha with a confection; it closes at the end of each year, as does the Hikone City Museum of History, while the castle itself is open year-round.
Family FAQ
How much does Hikone Castle cost?
Castle ticket, including Genkyu-en Garden: ¥1,000 for adults, ¥300 for elementary and junior high school students.
What are the opening hours of Hikone Castle?
Open every day, 8:30-17:00.
Is there parking at Hikone Castle?
The tourist car park near the castle costs ¥1,000 per vehicle per day.
