# Nagahama

> This lakeside town on the shores of Lake Biwa blends Edo-period charm with contemporary artistry in its renowned Kurokabe Square district. Historic black-walled merchant buildings now house over thirty glass art studios, galleries, and workshops where visitors can watch artisans craft delicate glasswork. The renovated castle town also preserves Japan's oldest railway station and hosts the Hikiyama Festival each April, featuring ornate float processions and traditional kabuki performances by local children.

- Prefecture: Shiga
- Type: City
- Address: Shiga, Japan

This lakeside town on the shores of Lake Biwa blends Edo-period charm with contemporary artistry in its renowned Kurokabe Square district. Historic black-walled merchant buildings now house over thirty glass art studios, galleries, and workshops where visitors can watch artisans craft delicate glasswork. The renovated castle town also preserves Japan's oldest railway station and hosts the Hikiyama Festival each April, featuring ornate float processions and traditional kabuki performances by local children.

## FAQ

### How do I get to Nagahama from Kyoto?

From Kyoto, a JR special rapid train reaches Nagahama in about 1 hour 5 minutes. From Maibara, the JR Hokuriku Line takes about 10 minutes. Kurokabe Square is roughly a 5-minute walk from the station.

### What is there to see in Nagahama?

This castle town on the northeast shore of Lake Biwa has Kurokabe Square, a quarter of Meiji-era black-walled buildings with glassblowing workshops. It also has a reconstructed Nagahama Castle housing a history museum, and Daitsuji temple. The Hikiyama Festival each April, a UNESCO entry, has children perform kabuki on floats.

### When is the best time to visit Nagahama?

April is a good time, when the Hikiyama Festival takes place. Kurokabe Square's glass workshops and shops are open year-round. Nagahama Castle's history museum costs about ¥410.

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Source: Nagahama — Japan Voyage