If you would like to enjoy a personalized tour with a guide that loves the history and culture of his country and wishes to share his knowledge with visitors, then I highly urge you to quickly book with Takuya! He will share so many details of the sites he will take you to, which truly makes the experience so much more meaningful, i.e. lifestyles of warlords that protected treasured castles, the thought behind the architecture and decoration
Dynamic View of Lake Biwa from the top of historic Hikone Castle
Cruise to Chikubu Island, the Mystic Island in Northern Lake Biwa
“Kurokabe Square” the modern meets the nostalgic Nagahama
Hikone and Nagahama in Shiga Prefecture
Explore Hikone: A Journey Through History
Less than an hour away by Shinkansen and local train, Hikone Castle is one of the 12 original Japanese castles still standing today, with its beautiful architecture and breathtaking views over Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan. As a history enthusiast or Japanese castle lover, visiting Hikone is a must. Learn about the strategic importance of this castle and its connection to the powerful Ii family of the Edo period. The Hikone Castle Museum offers additional insights into Japan’s feudal past.
Discover Nagahama: A Unique Cultural Experience
Nagahama is known for its charming Kurokabe Square, a vibrant area full of traditional shops and museums celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the region. You’ll also get to experience the Nagahama Hikiyama Matsuri, one of Japan’s UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage festivals.
The Hidden History of Guns in Japan
Nagahama’s Kunitomo District is the historical birthplace of Japan’s gun industry. Here, you can learn about the evolution of guns in Japan and how skilled gunsmiths adapted to different industries when gun usage was strictly regulated.
Chikubu Island: A Mystic Adventure
A 40-minute scenic cruise from Nagahama takes you to Chikubu Island, a secluded and mysterious spot. Here, you can visit the original Osaka Castle Bridge, walk through ancient shrines, and take part in a unique Japanese tradition—throwing wish-filled tiles towards the Tori Gate in Lake Biwa.
Savor Local Cuisine: Whisky, Craft Beer & Wagyu Beef
For food lovers, Nagahama offers a taste of Japan’s best with local specialties like Japanese whisky, craft beers, and the famous Ohmi Beef, a regional wagyu beef that’s perfect for Sukiyaki, Yakiniku, or steak. Don’t miss a quick bite of Hikone Chanpon noodles or sit down for a meal at one of Nagahama’s cozy restaurants.
Highlights
Hikone Castle, National Treasure
Kurokabe Square in Nagahama
Cruise to Chikubu Island and visit Hogonji Temple and Tsukubusuma Shrine with National Treasure (About 30 min. sailing one way)
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Trip Details
Trip Details
Price
JPY60,000.-
Departure time
9AM
Meeting point
To be determined with guests
Availability
Throughout year (Except the period of New Year Holiday)
Duration
8-9 hours
Group size
Min. 1 person (up to 4 Pax.) (Inquire the guide rate for the guests over 5.)
Included
Guide fee
Not included
Transportation, Lodging, Meals, Entrance fees etc.
The expenses of the Tour Guide (The same as the guests)
What to bring
To be determined with guests
Number & type of staff for tour
Award winning National Licensed Tour Guide Interpreter in English
Recommended Sample Itineraries
- Ride „Shinkansen“ from Shin-Osaka for 30 min. then, transfer to the local trian
- Visit Hikone Castle and the museum of Ii family
- Take local train from Hikone to Nagahama for about 20 min.
- Lunch in Hikone or Nagahama
- Browsing „Kurokabe Square“ for shopping and museum visits
- Take the local line and Shinkansen from Nagama to Osaka via Maibara
See What My Previous Guests Say
If you want a tour guide who will provide a catered, thoughtful, intentional, experience then I recommend Takuya. He is fluent in English, but what is most special is his open mindedness and intelligence. He is comfortable discussing complex issues of culture and history and receives questions with grace. He has a good sense of what locations, including (and especially!) if they are off “the beaten path”.
Do yourself a favor when visiting Japan and hire Takuya as a personal guide. We visited Japan on three occasions and every time we hired Takuya and had a wonderful time. We visited beautilful places off the beaten path, away from the very touristic areas. He really takes into account your personal interests when organising a trip and comes up with great ideas himself at the same time. Do not hesitate to hire him, you will not regret it!
