Step Beyond Kansai International Airport and Discover the Historic Charm of Hikone – A Two-Day Journey into History♪
Take a two-day getaway from Kansai International Airport to historic Hikone. Enjoy a relaxing overnight trip to Hikone, where history and culture come alive. Explore the national treasure Hikone Castle, cruise in a traditional yakatabune boat, stroll through the charming castle town, and experience local crafts passed down through generations. Hikone’s beloved mascot “Hikonyan” gave a warm welcome to “Sorayan,” the official character of Kansai Airports!
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Kansai International Airport is an international hub airport with an extensive network of international and domestic flights. It is used by many people as an offshore airport with multiple 4,000m-class runways that can operate 24 hours a day, and as an airport that coexists with the local community and the environment.
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Required time
1 night 2 days course
Transportation
Train
｜
On foot
Day 1
Sit back, relax, and enjoy a leisurely train journey from Kansai International Airport to Hikone♪
1
Kansai International Airport
About 2.5 to 3 hours Kansai International Airport Station → Hikone Station
About 20 minutes walk from Hikone Station
Once you arrive in Hikone, start your adventure with a delicious meal on Yume Kyobashi Castle Road. This charming street, designed to recreate the atmosphere of an Edo-period castle town, is lined with restaurants serving local specialties like Omi beef and lunch with local ingredients. Enjoy a relaxing meal while being soaked in the nostalgic scenery—it’s the perfect way to begin your journey.
2
Yumekyobashi Castle Road
Hikonyan and Sorayan enjoyed a delightful lunch together!
Approximately 20 minutes
Take a stroll through the nostalgic streets of the old castle town. At Yonbancho Square, you’ll find a wide selection of souvenirs featuring Hikonyan. From plush toys and keychains to towels and exclusive items you can only get here, it’s the perfect place to pick up a special memento of your trip.
3
Yonbancho Square
Sorayan was all smiles after picking up a bunch of Hikonyan souvenirs♪
Approximately 20 minutes
After shopping, step into the world of traditional craftsmanship! At Inoue Butsudan, you’ll get a close-up look at the skills behind Hikone’s famous Buddhist altars. Watch artisans apply gold leaf and carve intricate designs—It’s a rare opportunity to fully appreciate the exquisite artistry of Buddhist altars.
4
Inoue Buddhist Altar
Hikonyan and Sorayan experienced the art of gold leaf pressing together♪
Day 2
Hikone Castle, a national treasure of Japan, is a rare and precious fortress that still retains its elegant castle keep built in the early Edo period. Its original stone walls, turrets, and moats remain intact, offering visitors a deep sense of history. As a symbol of Japan’s unique political system during the Edo era—unparalleled anywhere else in the world—People of Hikone is striving to have Hikone Castle recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the top of the keep, you can enjoy sweeping views of Lake Biwa and the charming townscape of Hikone, with seasonal scenery adding to its allure. And don’t miss Hikonyan who makes daily appearances! (Please note: appearances may vary depending on weather and other conditions. For details, check Hikonyan’s schedule.)
5
Hikone Castle
Capture a memorable photo with the historic Hikone Castle as your backdrop♪
After exploring the castle, take a short stroll to Genkyuen Garden, located just next door. This traditional Japanese stroll garden features a pond surrounded by seasonal flowers and lush greenery. The view of Hikone Castle reflected across the water is simply breathtaking. Walking through the garden while gazing up at the castle offers a luxurious moment where history and nature harmoniously come together.
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Genkyuen
Relax with a cup of matcha while enjoying the serene beauty of Genkyuen Garden—Jusy like Hikonyan and Sorayan did!
After being soaked in the charm of Hikone Castle and Genkyuen Garden, head over to the Hikone Castle Museum. Here, you’ll find fascinating exhibits featuring artifacts related to the Ii family and documents from the feudal administration. It’s a valuable place to learn about samurai culture and daily life in the castle town during the Edo period.
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Hikone Castle Museum
Unwind on the veranda♪
Wrap up your journey with the traditional yakatabune boat ride! Set sail on a beautifully recreated Edo-period lord’s boat and enjoy a 45-minute cruise around the moat of Hikone Castle. From the water, you’ll get a unique view of the castle’s majestic keep and stone walls—a truly luxurious experience. The boatman’s guided narration adds charm to the ride, making it a relaxing and historically rich way to end your visit.
8
Hikone Castle Houseboat
Hikonyan and Sorayan enjoyed a relaxing cruise around the castle moat on a traditional yakatabune boat! They were enchanted by the stunning view of Hikone Castle from the water.
Hikone is a charming town full of history and elegance, easily accessible by train from Kansai International Airport.
A two-day trip offers plenty to explore: Hikone Castle, Genkyuen Garden, scenic strolls through the town, and hands-on experiences with traditional crafts.
Thanks to Hikonyan’s friendly guide, Sorayan rediscovered the many wonders of Hikone!
Why not take a short detour from Kansai International Airport and enjoy a delightful journey through Hikone?
Spots introduced in this itinerary
Kansai International Airport is an international hub airport with an extensive network of international and domestic flights. It is used by many people as an offshore airport with multiple 4,000m-class runways that can operate 24 hours a day, and as an airport that coexists with the local community and the environment.
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