Written by JC Team
This cherry blossom festival also sees sakura light up at Hikone Castle near Lake Biwa.
What to expect
Hikone Castle is famous for its more than 1,000 sakura trees and each spring those situated by the moats of the castle are lit up in the evening from 6 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.
Entry and tickets
Many of the cherry blossom trees can be seen for free walking along the inner or outer moats, but if you want a closer look, it may be worth paying entry to get inside the grounds.
Suggested Activity
Highly Recommended Osaka Food Tour
Book this best-selling tour and see why Osaka is known as Japan's kitchen. Taste famous dishes like okonomiyaki, kushikatsu and more, with a friendly local guide.
- Tickets cost ¥800 to visit the castle and Genkyuen Garden. It costs ¥200 if you are only visiting the garden.
Concessions and other ticket combinations are available.
For more ideas of places to visit near Kyoto during cherry blossom season, check out our guide to Kyoto’s top sakura spots.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.Late
Mar
~
Mid Apr
2026
彦根城桜まつり
Free
Official site
⚠️ Link in Japanese
- 1.1 km from Hikone Station Biwako Line (A13)
Typical weather at this time:
High: 15 ºC
Low: 9 ºC
