Nagahama Castle Town Half Day Walking Tour

Nagahama Castle is a reconstructed flatland castle in Shiga Prefecture, originally built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in the late 16th century. Located on the northeastern shore of Lake Biwa, Nagahama Castle (長浜城) was constructed around 1575–1576 by Hashiba Hideyoshi—later known as Toyotomi Hideyoshi—as his first castle after receiving land from Oda Nobunaga. The site was formerly called Imahama, and Hideyoshi renamed it Nagahama in honor of Nobunaga.

Hokoku Shrine in Nagahama is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Toyotomi Hideyoshi, built in 1600 to honor his legacy as lord of Nagahama Castle. Located just a short walk from Nagahama Station, Hokoku Shrine (豊国神社) commemorates Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan’s most influential warlords. He ruled Nagahama Castle from 1573 to 1576, and the shrine was constructed by local citizens three years after his death to celebrate his achievements.

Daichōji Temple in Nagahama is a historic Buddhist temple known for its grand wooden halls, exquisite sliding-door paintings, and peaceful gardens. It’s an important cultural site that showcases the spiritual and artistic heritage of Japan’s Edo period.

Nagahama Hikiyama Museum showcases the rich tradition of the Nagahama Hikiyama Festival, featuring elaborately decorated festival floats and Kabuki performances by children. Located in central Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture, the Nagahama Hikiyama Museum offers visitors a year-round glimpse into one of Japan’s most spectacular float festivals—the Nagahama Hikiyama Festival, designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Highlights of the Museum Authentic Hikiyama Floats: The museum displays two or more full-sized hikiyama—towering mobile stages measuring 6–9 meters tall and weighing 5–6 tons. These floats are adorned with gold leaf, crimson lacquer, intricate wood carvings, and metalwork, earning the nickname “moving museums”.