• Hikone Castle - The tour begins at Hikone Castle, renowned as one of Japan’s most well-preserved castles and a National Treasure. It is one of only twelve original castles remaining from the Edo period. Several of its structures are recognized as Important Cultural Properties.

The guide will escort visitors through the castle grounds and into the keep, highlighting the castle’s unique features along the way.

• Genkyuen - Next, enjoy a leisurely walk through Genkyu-en Garden. This garden, designed to mimic a Chinese palace garden, features a central pond with walking paths and offers stunning views of the castle.

Visitors will have the chance to savor Matcha tea and a traditional Japanese sweet in a teahouse that once hosted the castle lord’s guests.

• Yume Kyōbashi Castle Road - The tour continues to Yume Kyobashi Castle Road, a bustling shopping street with black fences and white-washed walls. Here, there will be time for lunch and shopping. The area is renowned for premium wagyu, available in various forms such as croquettes, skewers, hot pots, and more. Feel free to ask the guide for suggestions, or follow your senses. Remember to save room for dessert later in the tour!
• Omihachiman - The journey proceeds to the canal district of Omi Hachiman, where visitors can cruise the historic waterways and enjoy the scenic views of the castle town.

Film enthusiasts might recognize the scenery, as it is frequently featured in historical dramas and movies. The guide will be on hand to assist with capturing photos that will impress friends and family.

Please note, the boat tour may be canceled due to weather conditions. Additionally, seats on the boat tour cannot be guaranteed for guests booking less than one week in advance.

From here, the tour will return to the bus and head back to the meeting point for farewells.

• La Collina Omihachiman - The final stop is La Collina, a confectionary shop that doubles as a nature preserve and theme park. Surrounded by nature, it offers a wide array of popular seasonal treats.

Originally a bakery, the owners developed a passion for natural ingredients, transforming their shop into a nature preserve to cultivate their own ingredients and align with the seasons. The shop is often described as Ghibli-like in appearance and is a fantastic spot for photography enthusiasts. The desserts are a must-try as well.

• Transportation during the tour
• Boat tour in Omi Hachiman
• Matcha Experience
• Entry fee at Genkyu-en Japanese Garden
• Entry fee at Hikone Castle

• Lunch
• Accommodation
• Transportation to/from the meeting points

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and discover the charm of Central Japan by visiting Shiga Prefecture. This beautiful area boasts historic castles, serene waterways, verdant fields, and Japan’s largest lake. A visual and culinary delight, the region is renowned for the oldest brand of wagyu beef in Japan and a distinctive sweet shop.

This tour includes visits to two castle towns: Hikone, home to one of Japan’s oldest castles, and Omi Hachiman, famous for its picturesque canals. Enjoy Matcha, unwind in tranquil gardens, and take in the scenery as your knowledgeable, English-speaking guide leads you through this scenic part of Japan.

• The remaining tour time is allocated to transport.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.