How to get to and around Hikone: Access, Orientation and Transportation

Getting to Hikone

Hikone Station lies along the JR Tokaido Main Line (also locally referred to as Biwako Line) just one station (4 minutes, 190 yen, frequent departures) southwest of Maibara Station, a station served by the JR Tokaido Shinkansen, which connects Tokyo with Kyoto and Osaka.

Covered by: Japan Rail Pass

Maibara can be reached from Tokyo by direct Hikari trains on the Tokaido Shinkansen in a little over two hours. The one way journey costs around 12,000 yen and is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass.

Covered by: Japan Rail Pass

Direct JR "special rapid" trains to Hikone take 50 minutes and cost 1170 yen from Kyoto or 90 minutes and 1980 yen from Osaka. By shinkansen via Maibara, the trip takes 30 minutes from Kyoto (2350 yen for unreserved seats) or 45 minutes from Osaka (4700 yen).

Above fees and schedules are subject to change. Be sure to check current yen exchange rates.

Getting around

The castle can be reached from Hikone Station in a 15-20 minute walk along the main road. Most of the city's other attractions are located within walking distance of the castle. Alternatively, taxis are readily available in front of the station.

Questions? Ask in our forum.