Delve into the dramatic history of the end of Japan’s Sengoku period
Hike up mountain trails to the ruins of famous castles, accompanied by panoramic views
Visit the ruins of Azuchi Castle, once the bastion of a great warlord
Visit Hikone Castle, one of the few castles in Japan that still has its original castle keep
Connect this tour to your longer Japan journey as a fascinating historical addition
Shiga Prefecture, once known as Ōmi Province, was the stage for dramatic clashes between samurai clans at the end of the 16th century. With rugged, mountainous terrain that made for powerful defences, strategic proximity to the capital of Kyōto, and access to trade routes, the lands of Ōmi were coveted by samurai seeking power and influence. Castles dominated mountain ridges, meant as both fortresses and symbols of their masters’ power.
Over 400 years later, many of these castles have been reduced to mere stones; trees, brush, and walking paths have overgrown old battlefields, and Shiga’s lakes sit tranquil in valleys, reflecting the sky. Once the domain of feudal lords and powerful samurai, now any hiker can stand on these same outcroppings to survey Shiga’s rich lands.
Spend three days hiking to the sites of some of Ōmi province’s most influential castles. From the ruins of Azuchi Castle, built to represent the power and splendour of a major warlord, to Hikone Castle, which still stands despite the flow of time and offers a closer look into feudal Japan. With panoramic views of lakes (including Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake), forests, and neighbouring mountains – some with castles of their own – accompanying you, this tour marries fleeting human history with the constant presence of nature.
As you hike, our Walking Guidebook will unveil the history that took place just under your feet. Introductions to major players, chronicles of fiery battles, and what effects all of this would have on Japan as it moved into the Edo period are detailed in this companion, which also guides you with turn-by-turn directions.
Step onto Shiga’s trails and step into its stories.
(subject to change until the booking has been finalized)
Starting from Kyōto, make your way by train to Yogo, from where you will start today’s walk. Hike up Mount Shizugatake, the backdrop to the Battle of Shizugatake in the late 16th century, and be rewarded with superb views of both Lake Yogo and Lake Biwa at its summit. After your descent, you will pass by small temples and shrines before arriving at the post-town of Kinomoto, where you will have some time to explore before settling into your accommodation for the evening.
If you are looking to spend more time in Kinomoto, we offer a shorter alternative on this day where you can take a chairlift down from Mount Shizugatake and skip one section in Kinomoto – this will reduce the walking distance by roughly 1.1 km / 0.7 mi and 1.3 km / 0.8 mi, respectively. You may decide if you wish to take this shortcut on the day; however, please note that the chairlift only operates between late April and late November.
Walking distance: 11 km / 6.8 mi
Elevation gain: 355 m / 1,165 ft of ascent and 365 m / 1,200 ft of descent
Time required: About 5 hours
Accommodation: Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) or minshuku (family-run guesthouse)
Meals: Dinner
Board a train from Kinomoto to the trailhead of your hike to the Sawayama Castle Ruins, which lie upon the summit of Mount Sawa. Take in the sights before descending the mountain towards your next destination – Hikone Castle, one of Japan’s few remaining castles whose original main keep is still intact. Temples such as Chōju-in serve as landmarks along the way. Visit the castle and the tranquil Genkyū-en Garden before reaching your lodging for the night in Hikone.
Walking distance: 4.8 km / 3 mi
Elevation gain: 145 m / 475 ft of ascent and descent
Time required: About 2.5 hours
Please expect an additional 3 km / 1.9 mi of walking during your visit to Hikone Castle.
Accommodation: Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) or Japanese-style hotel
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Travel by train from Hikone to Notogawa, and begin your climb up along the ridge of the historic Mount Kinugasa, visiting Kannonshō-ji Temple along the way, before reaching the old stone ruins of Azuchi Castle. Despite its brief existence, Azuchi Castle has left a lasting legacy on Japanese history and culture and played a significant role in influencing castle architecture in Japan. Continue walking on to Azuchi Station, from where you will board a train back to Kyōto to continue your Japan journey.
We offer a shorter alternative on this day that excludes the 1.7 km / 1.1 mi loop walk to Kannonshō-ji Temple. You can choose which option you prefer on the day – no need to decide in advance!
Walking distance: 12.6 km / 7.8 mi
Elevation gain: 645 m / 2,120 ft of ascent and descent
Time required: About 6 hours
Meals: Breakfast
