Nestled along the shores of Lake Biwa, Nagahama City offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply looking to immerse yourself in authentic Japanese experiences, Nagahama has something special for everyone. Here are the ten most popular spots that will make your visit to this charming city truly unforgettable.
Kurokabe Square
Where Tradition Meets Modernity in Nagahama’s Castle Town
Kurokabe Square is not just a popular shopping area—it is a vibrant district where the art of glassblowing plays a key role in maintaining the area’s unique identity. A fascinating blend of rich castle town traditions and contemporary local culture offers a diverse experience here in the cultural heart of the city.
While traditional shops and crafts preserve the historical charm of the area, you’ll also find modern boutiques, cafes, and galleries that breathe new life into the district. Visitors can even participate in glass art experiences, trying their hand at creating their own glasswork, which adds a personal touch to their visit. The combination of old and new makes Kurokabe Square a dynamic destination, where the legacy of glassmaking is celebrated alongside the fresh, creative spirit of today’s Nagahama. Whether you’re exploring traditional crafts, discovering new trends, or creating your own glass art, Kurokabe Square provides a uniquely layered experience.
If you have time, consider visiting Kurokabe Square together with other nearby attractions like Chikubushima Island or Keiunkan to enrich your Nagahama experience even further.
Chikubushima
A Sacred Island of Natural Beauty
Venture out to Chikubushima, a small island within Lake Biwa steeped in natural beauty and profound spiritual significance. This sanctuary, revered for over 1,300 years, is home to numerous national treasures and cultural properties. The entire island, approximately 2 kilometers in circumference, is formed from a single granite rock and is surrounded by steep cliffs, further adding to its mystique and striking presence.
The journey to Chikubushima begins with a scenic ferry ride from Nagahama Port, just a 10-minute walk from Nagahama Station. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes, offering picturesque views of Lake Biwa along the way. As you ascend the 165 stone steps on the island, you may find yourself pausing to catch your breath, but the stunning panoramic views from the top are well worth the effort. On the island, you can participate in the ancient ritual of kawarake-nage, where small clay discs are thrown to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. Chikubushima offers not only a deep connection to Japan’s spiritual heritage but also breathtaking vistas of Lake Biwa and the surrounding mountains, making it a truly unique destination.
Keiunkan Guesthouse
The Bonsai Plum Blossom Exhibition and Beyond
Every winter, Keiunkan hosts a Bonsai Plum Blossom Exhibition, known in Japanese as Bonbaiten (盆梅展), one of the oldest and most celebrated events of its kind in Japan. During the exhibition, around 90 bonsai trees are carefully selected from a collection of approximately 300, and displayed in a traditional Japanese setting. Among these are impressive specimens, including towering trees nearly three meters tall and ancient trees believed to be over 400 years old, showcasing the incredible artistry and history behind bonsai cultivation.
Beyond the exhibition, Keiunkan itself is a stunning example of traditional Japanese architecture, surrounded by a beautifully landscaped garden. The garden, a National Place of Scenic Beauty, offers a tranquil escape in every season. Whether you visit during the bonsai exhibition or at another time of year, Keiunkan’s architectural beauty and serene garden make it a must-see destination.
Hikiyama Festival & Museum
A Living Tradition of Artistry and Community
Experience the vibrant energy of the Hikiyama Festival, one of Nagahama’s most cherished cultural events. Held annually in April, this festival features ornate floats, known as “hikiyama,” which are pulled through the streets by locals in a celebration of tradition, community, and artistry. The floats, adorned with intricate carvings and decorations, are a sight to behold, especially when illuminated at night.
The festival includes 12 different floats, from which a rotating selection are showcased each year. The highlight of the event is the children’s kabuki performances, which draw visitors from all over Japan.
If you can’t make it to Nagahama in April, don’t worry. You can still experience the festival’s magic by visiting the Hikiyama Museum in the Kurokabe Square area. The museum features real floats on display, recorded performances of the kabuki plays, and other fascinating cultural artifacts. It’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in the festival’s history and spirit at any time of the year.
Nagahama Castle & Hokoen Park
Cherry Blossoms and Historical Museum
The castle keep of Nagahama Castle Museum stands as a symbol of the city’s historical legacy, surrounded by the serene beauty of Hokoen Park. In the spring, the park transforms into a sea of cherry blossoms, creating a picturesque setting perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls. Families can enjoy a relaxing time at the nearby beach, where children can play and all can enjoy the scenic sunset over Lake Biwa.
Just a 5-minute walk from Nagahama Station to the lake, this area offers more than just natural beauty. The Nagahama Castle Historical Museum delves into the life and legacy of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan’s most prominent samurai warriors and the former lord of this castle town. Be sure to visit the top observation deck of the museum, where you can enjoy stunning views of Lake Biwa, the cityscape of Nagahama, and the majestic Ibuki Mountains in the background. It’s a place where history, nature, and scenic beauty come together, offering a perfect escape.
Lake Biwa
Ancient Waters, Pristine Beaches, and Outdoor Adventures
As the third oldest freshwater lake in the world and the largest in Japan, Lake Biwa offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Fed by the abundant waters flowing from the surrounding mountains, Lake Biwa has developed a unique ecosystem that supports diverse wildlife and natural beauty. In particular, the northern shores of the lake, where Nagahama is located, boast pristine waters, beautiful beaches, and are renowned for their stunning sunsets, perfect for swimming, relaxation, and taking in the view.
The scenic views alone are worth the visit, but Lake Biwa also offers a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in driving along the picturesque shoreline, paddling in a canoe or on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP), or cycling through the breathtaking landscape, this area has something for everyone. The region is especially popular for family-friendly adventures, making it an ideal destination for those traveling with children.
Kinomoto Brewery Town
A Quiet Town of Brewers and Heritage
Discover the historic small town of Kinomoto, an idyllic destination that was once a bustling post town along the historical route to Kanazawa. Kinomoto is also known as a temple town, centered around the temple at its heart. The town’s unique location, coupled with pure spring water from Lake Biwa and nearby mountains, and rice grown in fertile local fields, has made it an ideal place for traditional brewing.
Here, you can explore sake breweries, some of which have been in operation for over 500 years, crafted by time-honored methods passed down through the ages. Additionally, Kinomoto is home to soy sauce breweries that continue to preserve traditional production techniques. While the town may not have bustling shopping streets, its quiet charm and dedication to craftsmanship make it a perfect place to indulge in the authentic flavors and heritage of the region. Also be on the lookout for the temple’s mascot, a charming frog, who will be sure to enhance your visit with a memorable touch.
Mt. Shizugatake
A Historic Summit with Panoramic Views & Legendary Battles
Located to the northwest of Kinomoto, Shizugatake is a small mountain rising to 421 meters, offering one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the region. The mountain can be reached via a rewarding yet beginner-friendly hike, or you can opt for a more leisurely ascent using the ski lift (operational outside of winter).
Shizugatake is not just a natural wonder; it’s also a historic battlefield where Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the founder of Nagahama’s castle town, secured a significant victory. From the summit, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of both Lake Biwa and the smaller Yogo Lake to the north. The view from the top is truly unforgettable, especially during the fall when the leaves change color, and it’s easy to see why this location was historically important.
Keisoku-ji Temple Ruins
Autumn Leaves and Sacred Serenity
Keisoku-ji Temple, nestled in a forested area east of Lake Biwa, is renowned for its stunning autumn foliage and tranquil atmosphere. In the fall, the temple grounds are ablaze with vibrant red and orange leaves, creating a breathtaking backdrop for reflection and meditation. To avoid the crowds that often gather on weekends, visiting on a weekday is recommended. If you prefer an even quieter experience, consider exploring the temple in another season, such as the peaceful greenery of spring.
Located in the northern part of Nagahama, an area known as “The Villages of Kannon,” Keisoku-ji is part of a deeply spiritual region where Buddhist heritage has been preserved for over 1,300 years. Kannon is a type of Buddhist deity associated with compassion, also known as the Deity of Mercy. The local community takes great pride in maintaining these sacred sites and the treasured statues of Buddhist deities within them. You’ll often find volunteers eager to share the temple’s history and significance. While English-speaking guides may be limited, the warmth and hospitality of the local people will leave a lasting impression.
Samegai Historic Nakasendo Post Town
A Historical Townscape with Tranquil Waters and Seasonal Splendor
Step back in time at Samegai, a quiet and charming post town along the historic Nakasendo route. This peaceful town retains the look and feel of old Japan, where the streets are lined with traditional buildings and evoke a sense of history. Samegai is particularly famous for its pristine streams, where the delicate aquatic flower baikamo (a type of water buttercup) blooms during the summer. These flowers, which only thrive in clear, flowing water, attract many visitors each year.
Samegai is also closely connected to ancient myths surrounding nearby Mount Ibuki, adding a layer of cultural depth to this small community. While summer brings the beauty of the baikamo, Samegai will charm visitors in every season. In spring, the cherry blossoms along the river and streets create a hidden sakura spot. In autumn, the town is adorned with vibrant fall foliage, and in winter, its serene atmosphere provides a perfect escape from the bustle of everyday life.
