Shiga, Japan Dec. 25 Wed 9:23AM
Feudal Castle
Hikone Castle was the seat of the feudal lords until the end of the feudal age in Japan. This original castle is a marvel to look at, not only for its strong feudal-style exterior, but for the abundance of sakura blossoms that enclose the entire structure!
The castle keep is an official national treasure – one of only four other castle keeps in Japan. The steep and slightly scary stairs on the inside can be climbed to reach a beautiful view of the castle’s cherry blossom covered grounds, and Hikone city.
Getting to the castle, visitors must ascend a spiral ramp then cross a wooden bridge. The bridge was intentionally built out of wood instead of stone at the time so that it could be easily destroyed if attackers were known to be approaching.
At the base of the castle are also Hikone Castle Museum and Genkyuen Garden.
The castle museum displays a partial reconstruction of one of the fallen old castle buildings. There are also kimonos, old documents, musical instruments, and a variety of armor on display at the museum!
Genkyuen garden is a beautiful little landscape garden made up of four islands connected by old bridges. There is a tea house that tourists can visit here as well!
