This article introduces the Nagahama Classic Tour, an ideal itinerary for experiencing the best of what this historic city has to offer, all accessible from the downtown area around Nagahama Station. Perfect for visitors who want to explore Nagahama’s highlights on foot, this plan takes you from the mystical island of Chikubushima to the lively and historic shopping district of Kurokabe Square.
1. Morning: Visit Chikubushima
Your journey begins with a visit to Chikubushima. From Nagahama Station, take a 10-minute walk to Nagahama Port, where you can board a ferry to this sacred island rich in national treasures and cultural assets.
The ferry schedule varies by season, with typically four round trips offered daily. For this itinerary, the 8:50 AM departure is recommended. The morning departure is often preferred as the waters are usually calmer, and it allows you to enjoy a more relaxed afternoon after your visit to Chikubushima. Starting your day with a trip to the island is a great way to make the most of your time. For more complete ferry schedules, please check the latest information at the bottom of this section.
The round-trip fare from Nagahama to Chikubushima is ¥3,400 (as of Aug 2024) per adult. Tickets can be purchased at the port counter, and credit cards are accepted. During busy seasons, such as spring and fall weekends, it’s recommended to arrive early, as lines may be long if you wait until the last minute.
You’ll have 90 minutes to explore the island, which is usually enough time to see everything at a comfortable pace.
Start your visit by paying the temple admission fee of 600 yen and climbing the 165 steps to Hogonji Temple. Along the way, be sure to admire the Karamon Gate, a National Treasure connected to Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who once ruled the town of Nagahama during Japan’s Medieval period. This is a place where you can truly experience the essence of Japan’s rich historical culture. For those who have difficulty with stairs, you can head directly to the shrine or take a detour to the Karamon Gate from midway up the 165 steps.
Next, continue to Tsukubusuma Shrine, where you can enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Biwa and try your hand at the traditional kawarake-nage, a practice where small clay discs are thrown with a wish. It is believed that if the disc passes through the torii gate, your wish will come true.
After exploring the island, you’ll board the ferry back to Nagahama Port. If you have time before the ferry departs, enjoy a light snack at the shops around the boarding dock.
In Case of Rain, Wind, or Winter Season
Please note that during the winter months, the number of ferry trips is reduced to two per day. Additionally, in cases of high waves or heavy rain, the ferry may not operate. The decision to cancel the ferry is sometimes made only shortly before departure, except when severe weather is anticipated in advance. If the ferry to the island is not running due to weather or during the winter season, we recommend visiting Hokoen Park and the Nagahama Castle Historical Museum instead. You can learn about the rich history of Nagahama while enjoying the beautiful views from the observation floor. Nagahama Castle Museum is a participating facility of the Nagahama Excursion Passport.
2. Midday: Lunch & Sightseeing
After returning to Nagahama Port, take a short walk to Keiunkan. If it’s open, enjoy exploring the beautiful gardens and architecture. If you visit between January and mid-March, you can also enjoy the Bonsai Plum Blossom Exhibition, or Bonbaiten, along with your ferry trip to Chikubushima.
If Keiunkan is closed, those interested in trains can visit the Railway Museum located in Japan’s oldest surviving railway station site, just across from Keiunkan. The museum features actual trains that were once in service, offering a fascinating glimpse into railway history. It’s also a great spot for families with young children.
Both Keiunkan and the Railway Museum are participating facilities of the Nagahama Excursion Passport.
For lunch, consider dining at Nagahama Roman Beer, located near Keiunkan. As one of Japan’s pioneering microbreweries, this brew pub offers delicious craft beer to complement your meal. Please note that it is closed on Tuesdays. Alternatively, you can enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants in the popular Kurokabe Square area. The walk to Kurokabe takes you through quieter streets lined with traditional buildings, creating a charming and serene atmosphere before reaching this well-loved tourist district.
The area around the pub is quiet and lined with traditional buildings, providing a wonderful relaxing atmosphere.
3. Afternoon: Kurokabe Square District & Hikiyama Museum
After lunch, head to Kurokabe Square, where you can spend a leisurely afternoon exploring. There’s plenty to enjoy, from souvenir shopping to glass art experiences, depending on your interests and group. Kurokabe Square is a glass-themed area filled with opportunities for hands-on craft activities and shopping, offering items that you can take home the same day, carefully packaged for safe travel. Most craft experiences take approximately one hour to complete, making for a convenient addition to your itinerary.
Reservations for these workshops are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome at the same-day reservation counter [MAP]
You can also take a relaxing stroll along the charming streets leading to Daitsuji Temple and unwind within the serene temple grounds, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Finally, visit the Hikiyama Museum, located at the heart of Kurokabe Square, to reflect on Nagahama’s rich historical heritage and conclude your trip with a quiet, thoughtful experience. This historical museum allows you to appreciate the cultural depth of the city in a calm setting, and to witness the pride of the local community through the centuries-old festival traditions that have been passed down for generations. Please note that the facility is closed on Mondays.
Both Daitsuji Temple and Hikiyama Museum are participating facilities of the Nagahama Excursion Passport.
