Guide
The Hikone Castle Festival is a deeply rooted traditional event held against the breathtaking backdrop of Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture. Usually held in conjunction with Culture Day, the area surrounding Hikone Castle transforms into a vibrant historical world. The 'Hikone Castle Festival Parade' is a highlight of autumn in the region, drawing many visitors to witness the grandeur of Japan's feudal history.
The main attraction is the magnificent 'Jidai Emaki' (living picture scroll), featuring hundreds of participants. The procession, led by the grand Ii family daimyo parade, features people dressed in authentic historical costumes. Watching the procession move from the castle grounds through the charming streets of the old castle town feels like stepping back into the Edo period. It is a must-see for history enthusiasts and anyone wanting to experience the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese festival.
The festival is typically held around November 3rd to coincide with Culture Day. The parade usually takes place between 13:30 and 15:00, starting from the castle area and winding through the main streets of the city. Please check local updates for the most current-year schedule and specific route details.
The parade moves through the area surrounding Hikone Castle and major streets within Hikone City. Key areas include Ekimae Oshiro-dori, Irohamatsu, the Hikone Castle grounds, Yumekyo-bashi, Honcho, Ginza, Nobori-cho, and the vicinity of Joto Elementary School. You can enjoy the parade from various angles while walking through the historic streetscapes.
The parade starts at the castle and moves toward the city center. Depending on the route, certain spots offer more dramatic views. The areas around 'Ekimae Oshiro-dori' and 'Yumekyo-bashi' are excellent vantage points where you can enjoy the parade alongside the beautiful historical architecture. We recommend moving along the route to find the best viewing angles as the procession passes.
As the festival takes place in autumn, please dress according to the seasonal weather. Since most of the viewing is outdoors, comfortable walking shoes and a light jacket to adapt to temperature changes are highly recommended. Please check official sources for any specific event updates.