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Daishiji Temple means "Daishi Temple", a fitting name, as the temple is dedicated to Kobo Daishi, also known as Priest Kukai the founder of the Shingon sect. The temple is known for its statue of Kobo Daishi; the only statue of him sleeping/laying down. Within his head is a piece of the Buddha's relics from Toji Temple. Outside there are newly made statues of the seven gods of fortune.
Entrance is free.
Written Jan 24, 2012
Address: 7-19 Sawa-cho
Phone: 074-922-7304
Website: http://www.daishiji.or.jp/
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Genkyuu-en Garden is located at the foot of Mount Konki and Hikone Castle can be seen from the garden as borrowed scenery. The garden belonged to one of the city's former daimyo. The main feature is the pond, and the buildings and bridges are located around the outer areas of the pond. In comparison to other Japanese gardens, it is not so large, but it is still a nice historical garden.
Written Nov 19, 2009
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This is one of the city's best kept secrets (at least to foreigners). Tenneiji Temple does not look any different from other temples from the outside, but the architecture is not what makes it so great: Inside the temple lies an impressive display of 500 carved Buddhist statues! For these alone, it is worth the visit, as every single figure is unique, with their own personality!
Along with the statues, there is a nice zen garden, a graveyard, and a Buddha whose tummy you are to rub for good luck (these Buddhas are stereotypical Asian figures in the West however, this kind of Buddha is not so common in Japan). Tenneiji Temple is full of interesting things to see!
Entrance is 400 yen.
Written Nov 19, 2009
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Just across from the building where you pay for tickets to the castle is the Hikone Castle Museum. You can pay a single rate to enter both the museum and castle, which I would highly recommend.
The castle museum has displays of samurai armor and weaponry, clothing, and a variety of famous artwork. If you take the time to look at the battle scenes, there is a lot occurring from decapitation to seppuku. They are not something to glance at on the way by, if you truly want to appreciate them. There are a lot of details!
There is a small garden within the museum grounds, and those who plan on visiting during the spring and autumn should consider purchasing tickets to see the Noh performances performed on the stage inside the museum.
While the castle's interior does have some artifacts, most of them are located here in the museum, so if you are interested in seeing them, you should definitely visit here, as well as the castle!
Entrance is 500 yen.
Written Nov 19, 2009
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Hikone Castle is an original castle that was never rebuilt after its construction in 1622, making it one of the best castles in Japan! The castle also has a well preserved moat and walls, so you can really see how it was back in its hayday without too much imagination.
The castle rests atop Mount Konki, and it is surrounded by cherry blossoms, making it quite beautiful in the spring. It also provides a great view of Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake. Hikone Castle is strangely not as popular among foreign tourists, but the Japanese enjoy it very much. Perhaps it is in part due to Hikonyan, the city's cute little mascot (a samurai cat).
The bell within the castle grounds is rung at certain times during the day. It is considered to be one of the top 100 sounds in Japan.
Many of the original castles, like Hikone Castle, are overlooked in favor of Himeji Castle and Matsumoto Castle. Although those castles are worth visiting, do not dismiss Hikone! Hikone castle is also beautiful and the museum houses some really great artifacts!
Entrance is 350 yen.
Written Nov 19, 2009
Address: 1-1 Konki-cho
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