Hikone’s 6 Top Tours & Experiences

Hikone is a city that balances the charm of a lakeside town with the depth of traditional Japanese culture. Its rich history, stunning castle, and serene scenery make it a perfect setting for a variety of tours and experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic sites, sampling local delicacies, or discovering hidden waterways, Hikone offers options that cater to different interests and travel styles. We particularly enjoy the Hikone Castle and Omi Beef tour for its combination of history, gastronomy, and scenic views—it’s a great way to get a well-rounded taste of the region.

Hikone’s tours are notable for their authenticity and focus on local culture. Many visitors appreciate the chance to learn about the Ii clan and the Tokugawa shogunate through guided visits to Hikone Castle, or to enjoy regional specialties like Omi beef. For those who want a lively evening experience, the Hikone Bar-Hopping Tour offers a fun way to explore the city’s after-dark scene while tasting local food and drinks. No matter your interest, Hikone’s tours promise an engaging and memorable experience.

1. Shiga: Hikone Bar-Hopping Tour with Local Food and Drinks

At number 1 on our list, the Hikone Bar-Hopping Tour is perfect for those wanting to see Hikone’s nightlife and enjoy authentic local flavors. This guided two-hour walk takes you to two carefully selected bars and izakayas, where you’ll sample food and drinks worth ¥3,000. It’s a great way to meet friendly locals and hear stories about Hikone’s past and present in a relaxed setting.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authentic, cozy venues where locals unwind. The guide leads you through Hikone’s evening spots, sharing insights into the dishes and drinks you’re enjoying. The tour starts in front of Hikone Police Station Ekimae Koban, with the guide holding a yellow “DeepExperience” sign. You’ll explore the lively bar scene, tasting regional wines and small bites, all while absorbing the warm, lakeside community vibe. The tour is ideal for curious travelers eager to connect with locals and experience Hikone after dark.

Bottom Line: For a lively, intimate introduction to Hikone’s nightlife, this tour offers fun, food, and local stories—all in just two hours.

2. Shiga: Explore Hikone Castle and Savor Premium Omi Beef

At number 2, the Hikone Castle and Omi Beef tour combines Japan’s iconic castle with one of its most prized regional foods. Over three to five hours, a knowledgeable guide takes you inside Hikone Castle, one of the few original castles remaining in Japan. You’ll learn about its role during the Edo period and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Biwa from the castle grounds.

The highlight is the delicious lunch of Omi beef, a Wagyu variety known for its tenderness and rich flavor. This tour is flexible, with options to include a garden visit for those who want extra scenery and tranquility. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re a history lover or a foodie craving high-quality Japanese beef. The guide’s insights on the castle’s architecture and the significance of the Ii clan make this experience both educational and tasty.

Value for money is excellent, considering the depth of historical context, the quality of the beef, and the scenic beauty. It’s suited for travelers with an interest in traditional Japanese culture who want a comprehensive half-day experience. The only downside might be the price point, but the inclusion of a gourmet lunch makes it worthwhile.

Bottom Line: This tour provides a perfect mix of history and culinary delight for those who want a deeper understanding of Hikone’s past and enjoy top-tier Wagyu.

3. From Nagoya: Castles and Canals in Hikone and Omi Hachiman

Number 3 on our list is the Castles and Canals tour, which is ideal for a full-day adventure lasting 8 to 9 hours. Starting from Nagoya, this trip takes you to two picturesque towns: Hikone with its historic castle, and Omi Hachiman, celebrated for its charming canals and traditional merchant houses.

The tour’s highlights include exploring Hikone Castle, a designated national treasure, and cruising the scenic moats of Omi Hachiman. You’ll enjoy a traditional matcha tea with a view of a Japanese garden, and visit a local confectionary shop surrounded by nature. The boat cruise on the canals provides a peaceful perspective on the town’s historic waterways. This is a comprehensive day trip, perfect for those who want a detailed look at both the castle city and its tranquil surroundings.

Travelers appreciate the carefully curated itinerary, which balances guided visits with free time and scenic experiences. The guided commentary reveals the history behind each site, and the inclusion of local snacks adds flavor to the day. It’s a long tour but rewarding for those who love history, architecture, and scenic waterways.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for history and scenery lovers wanting a full day exploring Hikone and Omi Hachiman.

4. Chikubushima: Half-day private guided tour from Kyoto

Number 4, the Chikubushima Island tour offers a focused, four-hour experience that combines lake scenery, religious history, and a scenic boat ride. Meeting in Kyoto, you’ll take a train and sailing trip across Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest and oldest lake.

Chikubushima Island is known for its lush flora, fauna, and medieval religious sites. The tour includes a guided walk around the island, with plenty of time for sightseeing and appreciating the natural beauty. The boat ride itself provides a relaxing view of the lake’s vast expanse, and the walk offers insight into the local history and landscape.

This experience is ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see a unique island with deep cultural roots. The trip combines outdoor activity with cultural learning, making it suitable for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Plus, the flexibility of a private guide makes it easy to tailor the experience.

Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick but enriching escape into nature and history, accessible from Kyoto with minimal hassle.

5. Iga: Lake Biwa Architecture & Miho Museum Day Trip Osaka

Number 5 on our list is a full-day trip departing from Osaka to explore Hikone’s historic sites and the Miho Museum, a stunning piece of architecture set amidst natural beauty. This tour emphasizes art, architecture, and scenic landscapes, blending visits to Hikone Castle, Omihachiman, and the museum.

The tour includes a stop at Hikone Castle, with a self-guided exploration, followed by free time in Omihachiman to enjoy street food and local shopping. The highlight, however, is the Miho Museum, designed by I. M. Pei, which offers breathtaking views and exhibits of ancient artifacts. The trip emphasizes a slow, cultural experience with small groups of less than ten travelers.

The value lies in the carefully curated stops, balancing history, modern architecture, and the natural scenery of Lake Biwa. It’s suited for travelers interested in architecture, design, and arts, looking for a comprehensive yet relaxed day trip from Osaka.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded cultural journey emphasizing art, scenic views, and historic sites, ideal for those interested in design and architecture.

6. Shiga: Guided Hikone Castle Experience with Samurai Heritage

Finally, the Hikone Castle Samurai Experience offers a more immersive visit, with options for a 2 to 4-hour tour. It focuses on samurai history, exploring Hikone Castle’s turrets, gates, and the story of the Ii clan and their connection to the Tokugawa shogunate.

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts who want to understand Japan’s feudal past in an engaging way. The guide shares stories about the castle’s architecture and the samurai heritage, and the extended version can include visits to Genkyuen Garden and Rakurakuen Palace. It involves walking through the castle grounds, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Guests appreciate the detailed storytelling and the chance to see the castle’s inner workings up close. The tour’s focus on historical context makes it particularly appealing for travelers who want more than just sightseeing.

Bottom Line: An ideal choice for history buffs interested in samurai lore and the castle’s strategic importance.

How to Choose the Right Hikone Tour

When selecting a tour in Hikone, consider your interests, timeframe, and budget. For a lively evening with local eats, the Hikone Bar-Hopping Tour offers a short, fun experience. If you’re a history and food lover who wants a hearty meal of Omi beef, the Castle and Omi Beef tour is ideal. For those with a full day to explore, the Castles and Canals or Iga Art and Architecture trip deliver a mix of scenery, history, and culture.

If you’re pressed for time but want a quick dose of nature and culture, the Chikubushima Island tour provides a scenic half-day escape. Meanwhile, the Samurai Castle Experience offers an immersive, detailed look for history enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts

Hikone’s tours cover everything from lively nightlife and culinary delights to historic castles and scenic lakeside cruises. For an evening of local flavors, the bar-hopping experience is hard to beat. History lovers will enjoy exploring Hikone Castle with a knowledgeable guide, while those craving art and modern architecture might prefer the trip to Miho Museum.

Booking early is advisable, especially for guided experiences or private tours, to ensure you get your preferred time and group size. Whatever your interests, Hikone’s diverse offerings promise a rewarding and authentic taste of this charming city.