Scenic lakes and historic castles \u2013 that is the setting of the small Japanese town of Hikone. Situated on the shores of the nation\u2019s largest lake, Lake Biwa, in the Shiga Prefecture, Hikone is steeped in natural beauty as well as historical relevance.<\/p>\n
Hikone is famous for its remarkably well-preserved castle, which goes by the same name as its host city. Hikone Castle is, in fact, one of the five Japanese castles designated as national treasures<\/strong>. This honor \u2013 \u201cthe highest designation for cultural properties in Japan\u201d – is due to its unique combination of architectural styles.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n What does this mystic destination hold in store for you? Take a step back in time as you consider this helpful Hikone travel guide, and start planning your next Japanese vacation today.<\/p>\n Table of Contents<\/p> Hikone makes a great side trip from Kyoto<\/a> and other Japan\u2019s major cities<\/a>, whether your itinerary will allow you to spend an afternoon or an entire day in the small town. It is also a good stop over on the extended trip between Kyoto and Tokyo. Access to this pleasant location is easy and affordable when you use your Japan Rail Pass<\/a>.<\/p>\n \n \n Buy your JR Pass\n <\/a>\n <\/p>\n Hikone Station is located on the Tokaido line<\/strong>\u00a0and can be reached in one of two ways. From Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station, you may take the JR Tokaido Main Line directly to Hikone. Near Hikone, this line is often known as the Biwako Line, named for the nearby lake.<\/p>\n Alternatively, you may take the Shinkansen on the JR Tokaido Shinkansen Line<\/a> to Maibara Station. At Maibara, you will transfer to the Tokaido Main Line and take a four-minute train ride to Hikone Station.\u00a0 This is the fastest way: the trip lasts about two hours and it’s\u00a0<\/strong>fully covered by the JR Pass.<\/strong><\/p>\n Check how to travel from Tokyo to Hikone with the Hokuriku Arch Pass<\/a><\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n From Kyoto Station, take the Tokaido line eastbound to Hikone Station.<\/strong>\u00a0The route is direct, and the trip lasts only 45 minutes. If traveling from Kyoto to Tokyo, or viceversa, you will be passing through Hikone, making this town an excellent day trip on your journey.<\/p>\nHow to get to Hikone with JR Pass<\/span><\/h2>\n
From Tokyo to Hikone<\/span><\/h3>\n
From Kyoto to Hikone<\/span><\/h3>\n