Nagahama Castle (Shiga Prefecture)

Nagahama Castle, located by Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, is known as the first residence castle which TOYOTOMI Hideyoshi first built.TOYOTOMI Hideyoshi (1537-1598) is one of the most important figures in Japanese history and very popular among Japanese people as a great samurai warrior during the Sengoku period (the age of provincial wars).  He is said to have been born to a peasant family, become a powerful warlord and unified the country until the end of 16th century.

It was for a short time that Hideyoshi resided in Nagahama castle, however, the castle is noted as the place where Hideyoshi's success story began and its nickname is "the castle of success."

The original castle does not exist because it was demolished in 1615, but it was reconstructed as a historical museum in 1983.

There you can learn the history of the castle and the region with various exhibits, and enjoy the panoramic views of the city and Lake Biwa from the highest floor.

photo: Nagahama city viewed from the Nagahama Castle Historical Museum

photo: Lake Biwa viewed from the Nagahama Castle Historical Museum

In addition, you can experience the tea ceremony in the castle.The city is also the birthplace of KOBORI Enshu (1579-1647) known as a master of tea and garden design.  Today's tea masters continue KOBORI Enshu's unique tea tradition and will serve you tea together with a small explanation about Enshu and tea ceremony he founded.

Please enjoy studying history, beautiful scenery and some Japanese culture.