Written by Jane Pipkin
Yume Kyōbashi Castle Road, also known as Old New Town, is a traditional street in Hikone, famous for its old-style houses and lucky cats.
As you walk down the street, you will come across a variety of resturants, local stores, and even a Buddhist Temple (known as Soanji). Be sure to try the local specialty, Omi Beef, at one of the many specialist restaurants down the street. Omi Beef is renowned for being one of the best types of beef in all of Japan.
You will also find many small souvenir shops selling Hikonyan-themed merchandise (Hikone’s adorable samurai cat mascot).
Check out the town map and go down the street sides, you will discover some wonderful things, such as the Hikonyan Museum.
Fun fact: During the Edo period, Ii Naotaka, the lord of the Hikone domain, helped popularize the Maneki Neko (beckonening cat). Legend has it that while visiting Gotokuji Temple in Setagaya, he was beckoned by a cat to seek shelter.
Soon after, a lighting storm struck. Grateful for the cat’s intervention, Ii Naotaka donated money to the temple and made a statue resembling the cat. This statue later became a symbol of good fortune.
How to get there
You can take the Mitsuya Line: Maple Town via City Hospital bus from Hikone Station. The journey to Honmachi Castle Road, the stop needed, takes just 3 minutes and costs ¥210.
Alternatively, you can walk, which takes around 20 minutes. This option allows you to experience more of Hikone’s historic atmosphere.
- 1.1 km from Hikone Station Biwako Line (A13)
