K-15 Tour: Hikone Castle, Tea Ceremony & Otsu/Biwa – Japan’s Former Capital (from Kyoto)

Price per person: On request

English-speaking guide
Start time: 9:00 am
Tour duration: 8–9 hours
Travel time: approx. 1 hour from Osaka / 30 minutes from Kyoto

Tour highlights: Hikone Castle – Traditional boat ride – Toyotomi Hideyoshi Tea Ceremony – Enryaku-ji Temple

During this tour you will:

• Explore Hikone, birthplace of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan’s most famous medieval leaders.
• Take in panoramic views of Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan.
• Step back in time at Hikone Samurai Castle, one of only 12 original castles in Japan that survived wars without reconstruction.
• Enjoy a leisurely ride on a traditional yakatabune boat along the castle moat.
• Take part in a distinctive three-step tea ceremony inspired by Toyotomi Hideyoshi—begin with a light, refreshing cup, follow with a gently warmed second serving, and finish with a small, strong brew to fully appreciate its rich flavor.
• Visit Enryaku-ji, one of Japan’s most historically important monasteries, founded in 788 by the monk Saicho, who introduced Tendai Buddhism to Japan.

Important Notes:

• Your guide will meet you in the lobby of your Kyoto hotel and return you there (pickup/drop-off outside Kyoto or Otsu requires an additional fee).
• Child discounts: Ages 0–5 free; ages 6–11 receive ¥2,800 / USD 28 off for private transport plans.