Nagahama City

Nagahama City

Nagahama City is located in the northeastern part of Shiga Prefecture, Japan. It is part of the area surrounding Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake, as well as the drainage basin of the Shigaraki River. The city also includes the nationally designated historic site, Chikubu Island. The city primarily develops its economy through tourism. The Hosshō-ji Temple and the Hōsen-ji Temple on Chikubu Island, along with the Keiunkan Inn—a nationally important cultural property—are major attractions, alongside other key architectural sites, making the city a prominent tourism destination that welcomes approximately three million visitors each year.

Located on the ruins of Nagahama Castle, Toyopark is a famous cherry blossom viewing spot worth visiting. The reconstructed castle tower, built in 1983, now serves as the Nagahama Castle Historical Museum. As a newly developed tourist attraction, the Kuromon Plaza was established along the Hokkoku Kaido road, where remnants of traditional buildings remain. The plaza features an array of glass art-themed galleries, workshops, and restaurants. The Narita Art Museum, which houses works by the French glass artist René Lalique, and the Kuromon Glass Art Museum showcase many noteworthy pieces. The Old Nagahama Station Museum, Japan’s oldest surviving former train station, is a Western-style red-brick building with a modern structure, and it is adjacent to the Nagahama Railway Culture Hall.

The Rokubyōtan Festival, a traditional event held to pray for good health, peace, and fortune, is beloved by many locals and visitors. During the festival, participants visit several temples associated with Toyotomi Hideyoshi, including Nagahama Hachiman Shrine, Toyokuni Shrine, Chizen-in, Sōji-ji, Shaen-ji, and Shintoku-ji, collecting six “hyōtan” (gourds) along the way.

Nagahama

Reason to visit: A city in Shiga Prefecture, Japan, rich in tourism resources

Continent where the attraction is located: Asia 【Asia】

Country/region where the attraction is located: Japan [Japan]

Province/state where the attraction is located: Shiga Prefecture [Shiga Prefecture]

City where the attraction is located: Nagahama City [Nagahama]