Hikone Castle Museum

The Hikone Castle Museum (彦根城博物館) offers a rich cultural journey into Japan’s feudal era. Housed within a meticulous reconstruction of the Omotegoten Palace—the castle’s former administrative and residential quarters—the museum immerses visitors in the refined world of the Ii family, the powerful samurai clan who governed Hikone for over 250 years. Exhibits showcase an impressive array of Edo-period artifacts, including authentic samurai armor, katana swords, lacquerware, scrolls, Noh theater masks, and ceremonial attire. Informative displays and traditional architectural elements recreate the atmosphere of a functioning daimyo residence, helping visitors visualize the roles, rituals, and daily life of the ruling elite during this period.

Beyond static displays, the museum features interactive areas and rotating seasonal exhibits that deepen the visitor experience. Guests can step into recreated meeting halls, tea rooms, and armories—spaces that offer rare insights into the daily routines within a samurai compound. A central garden, visible from the museum’s corridors, reflects the elegant design of nearby Genkyuen Garden, adding a tranquil touch to the historical setting. With panoramic views of surrounding castle structures and Lake Biwa in the distance, the museum serves as a natural extension of any visit to Hikone Castle—especially for travelers eager to explore the region’s legacy beyond its iconic stone walls and towers.