Hikone Castle

Located in Konki-chō, Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture, Hikone Castle (ひこねじょう) is a hilltop castle of significant historical importance, constructed in the early Edo period. It once served as the residence of the Ii clan, hereditary vassals of the Tokugawa shogunate, and as the administrative center of the Hikone Domain. The castle stands on Mount Konki (also known as Mount Hikone), at an elevation of about 50 meters, which is why it is also referred to as Konki Castle (こんきじょう). Since its construction, Hikone Castle has witnessed the political and military transitions of the Edo period and has remained a central stronghold of power in the Ōmi region, becoming a vital symbol of Japanese castle culture.

The main keep (tenshu), attached turrets, and Tamon-yagura remain intact to this day, making the castle an invaluable architectural heritage site. Alongside Himeji, Inuyama, Matsumoto, and Matsue castles, Hikone Castle is one of only five castles in Japan whose keeps are designated as National Treasures. In addition, the castle grounds preserve numerous structures that date from the Azuchi-Momoyama to Edo periods, including turrets and gates, with five buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties, among them a rare samurai stable. These surviving historical structures make Hikone Castle one of the best-preserved castles in Japan. Owing to its historical and aesthetic value, the site has been designated a Special National Historic Site and is included within the Special Zone of Lake Biwa Quasi-National Park.

Construction of Hikone Castle began in 1604 under orders from Tokugawa Ieyasu, and was overseen by Ii Naomasa and his son Ii Naotaka. The Ii clan, one of the most powerful hereditary lords under the Tokugawa shogunate, frequently served as tairō (chief councillors), forming a key part of the shogunate’s political foundation.

Unlike many other castles, Hikone Castle escaped demolition during the “Castle Abolition Ordinance” of the Meiji era. This preservation was largely due to Emperor Meiji’s personal visit to Hikone, during which he praised its magnificence and historical value. As a result, Hikone Castle remains the only intact historical castle in Shiga Prefecture, further enhancing its rarity and cultural significance.

In 1992, Hikone Castle was placed on Japan’s Tentative List for World Heritage status. Although stricter UNESCO requirements in recent years have delayed its official inscription, its historical, architectural, and cultural importance have long been highly esteemed by scholars and visitors alike. The castle keep, while modest in appearance, features a meticulously designed three-story, three-tiered structure that balances aesthetic elegance with defensive functionality. From the top floor, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of Lake Biwa and the Suzuka Mountains. These magnificent vistas are celebrated as part of both the “Eight Views of Hikone” and the “Eight Views of Lake Biwa,” making the site beloved among photographers and history enthusiasts.

Today, Hikone Castle is not only a precious historical treasure but also a core attraction for local tourism. Within the castle grounds, a museum showcases artifacts and documents related to the Ii family and the governance of the domain. Visitors may also encounter Hikonyan, the castle’s popular mascot: a white cat wearing the Ii clan’s distinctive red samurai helmet. Since its debut, Hikonyan has become a beloved symbol nationwide, representing Hikone and drawing countless visitors to the castle.