Hikone Castle in Japan

With its beautiful gardens and fascinating history, the Hikone Castle is one of the major tourist attractions of Japan. Completed in 1622 by the Ii family, Hikone is one of the few remaining castles that have survived the Meiji period. Using flawless measures of security, the castle boasts of a unique bridge that connects the entrance to the main castle and could be destroyed if the enemy tried to enter the castle through it. The castle foundation is also a rare structure to check the castle from collapsing in an earthquake. Girdled by a host of cherry trees, and with the Lake Biwa in its backdrop, this white building is one of the most picturesque one. The moats circling the castle are still charming to navigate during fall, and the ancient castle bell still chimes to remind the town of a bygone era. No wonder that the castle has been acclaimed as the National treasure of Japan.

How to reach Hikone castle: Hikone is just a station away from Maibara, which falls on the JR Tokaido Shinkansen tracks. Maibara can be reached in a 2 hour Hikari train ride from Tokyo. Maibara is quite near Kyoto and Shin-Osaka from where the local and express trains can take you to Maibara by the JR Bikowa line.

Other attractions near Hikone: Hikone is a picture perfect town with a number of other attractions to offer to its tourists. The Lake Biwa-ko, the largest fresh water lake in Japan, itself is a haven for the visitors. Set amidst the lake is Chikubu or the "Island of the Gods" that calls in thousands to see the Hogonji Temple and Tsukubusuma Shrine. A pagoda set near the temple entrance is one of the few stone monuments of Japan. Hikone is seeped in history and the castle museum is an authentic display of the artifacts of the Tokugawa period. A colorful garden, Genkyu-en Garden is also a major tourist destination for its beautiful view of the castle and the hills. Yume-Kyobashi or 'Old New Town' draws in visitors a taste of authentic Japanese food. Umoreginoya, the home of Naosuke Ii, and Ryotanji Temple, a Zen monument is also worth visiting.

Where to stay in Hikone: Hikone has a number of luxurious accommodations for the tourists.

The Prince Hikone Hotel is a perfect resort to give a panoramic view of the Lake and the castle.
Prince Ohmi Plaza Hotel is placed on the outer bank of the castle.
Hotel Sunroute Hikone and Grand duke Hotel are quite near the ancient castle.
Hakkei Tai is set in an idyllic locale too.

Accommodation in Japan
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