Japan: Nagahama Castle on the Shores of Lake Biwa
- Olivier
- Feb 1, 2015
- 6 min read
Updated: 14 hours ago
The Nagahama Castle, located in Shiga Prefecture, Japan, is an important historical site reflecting the region's military and cultural history. Although its current structure is a reconstruction, the original castle, built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, played a key role in the history of feudal Japan. A modest-sized castle, particularly interesting for night photography.
I have a personal fondness for this small castle located just a few meters from the lake's shore. Having photographed it several times, it's in the evening that I enjoy observing it the most. The lighting is particularly well done, and the contrasts are strong.
If you visit in winter, you can also benefit from the snow protection structures set up on the pine trees (Yukizuri), as seen in the photo above. The park surrounding the castle, which extends to the lake, is also interesting.
Open day and night without restrictions, the walking path along the lake is equipped with stone lanterns and ancient pines. There are numerous views of the castle from the park through the branches, which leaves room for your photographic creativity. That's why this castle is also part of our Photo Tours "Around Lake Biwa" and "The Castles of the Sengoku Period" (Learn more about it here).
Brief History of Nagahama Castle
Nagahama Castle (長浜城) was originally built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537-1598), a daimyo (feudal lord) who would become one of Japan's most significant unifiers. It was Hideyoshi’s first castle as a feudal lord. Hideyoshi was granted the territory in 1573 after the fall of the Azai clan, who had ruled Northern Omi (now Northern Shiga Prefecture) from Odani Castle.
The construction of the castle began immediately in 1573 and was completed in 1575. The area was originally called Imahama, but Hideyoshi renamed it Nagahama after constructing the castle. Hideyoshi chose this strategic location due to its proximity to Lake Biwa, an important means of transportation and commerce at the time.
Located on the shore of Lake Biwa, the castle served as a strategic military post to control traffic and trade on the lake, as well as to monitor the movements of enemy armies. This castle type is called Hirashiro (castle on a plain) and Mizujiro (water castle), considering is location and moats.
During the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1573-1600), marked by conflicts and shifting alliances among warlords, the castle played a crucial role in Hideyoshi's military strategies.
In 1582, after the Honnoji Incident and the death of Oda Nobunaga, Nagahama Castle briefly changed hands but was reclaimed by Hideyoshi, who used it as a base for the Battle of Shizugatake. The castle was later ruled by Yamanouchi Kazutoyo (from 1583 to 1600) and then Naito Nobunari after the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600.
Destruction and Reconstruction
After Hideyoshi's death, Nagahama Castle changed hands several times, coming under the control of various feudal lords.
Like many castles in Japan, Nagahama Castle was destroyed in 1615 due to the "One Country, One Castle" decree issued by the Tokugawa Shogunate, aimed at reducing the power of the daimyos. The castle's materials were repurposed for the construction of Hikone Castle and local temples such as Daitsuji.
The current keep of Nagahama Castle is a modern reconstruction completed in 1983. It was rebuilt using traditional techniques and modern materials to preserve its historical appearance. The design of the castle reflects the typical architecture of castles from the Azuchi-Momoyama period, with a central keep (tenshu) surrounded by stone walls.
© O. Robert
The Museum
The reconstruction aimed to house a museum that presents the history of the castle and the region, as well as the life and achievements of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The museum, located inside the keep, exhibits historical artifacts, armor, weapons, and documents related to the history of the castle and the Sengoku period.
Permanent and Temporary Exhibitions
Hideyoshi and Nagahama: The second and third floors feature materials and dioramas that detail the construction of Nagahama Castle, Hideyoshi’s life, and his relationship with the region. Exhibits include historical documents, artifacts, and visual reconstructions of the castle and castle town.
Battle of Shizugatake: Special focus is given to this pivotal battle, which took place in 1583 near Nagahama, and its impact on Hideyoshi’s rise to power.
Local History: The museum also covers the cultural and social history of Nagahama, including its development as a castle town and its role during the Edo Period.
Observation Deck: The fifth floor provides a panoramic view of Lake Biwa and the surrounding landscape, making it a popular spot for visitors to enjoy the scenery, especially at sunset.
Special Exhibitions: Temporary exhibits are rotated every one to two months, covering topics such as the area’s culture, the Sengoku Period, and other warlords associated with Nagahama, including Ishida Mitsunari.
The Surrounding Gardens
The gardens and landscape around Nagahama Castle are deeply intertwined with the natural beauty and strategic importance of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake.
The area’s gardens and green spaces reflect the harmonious relationship between architecture and nature that is characteristic of traditional Japanese castle towns. While the original castle gardens have not survived, the modern reconstruction of Nagahama Castle and its surrounding parkland provide a serene setting where visitors can appreciate the historical connection to the lake.
The observation deck on the fifth floor of the castle museum offers a breathtaking vista of Lake Biwa, allowing one to imagine how the castle’s residents once gazed upon the same waters, which served as both a natural moat and a vital transportation route during the castle’s heyday.
Today, the lakeside promenades and public parks near the castle invite leisurely strolls and picnic breaks, blending history with the tranquil ambiance of the lake. The area’s cultural heritage, combined with the ever-present backdrop of Lake Biwa, makes Nagahama a unique destination where nature and history converge.
Events in Nagahama
The annual Nagahama Hikiyama Festival held in April is famous for its traditional Kabuki theatre performances by children. Boys aged 5–12 perform traditional kabuki plays on ornate, wheeled floats (hikiyama), which are considered “moving art museums” due to their intricate craftsmanship and decoration.
Another part of this Festival is the daring four-day event where young men participate in a ritual procession, adding a unique and energetic atmosphere, called Hadaka Matsuri (Naked Festival).
© O. Robert
The festival takes place near the castle and is one of the city's most important cultural events. Hikiyama Festival is registered as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016, alongside 32 other Japanese float festivals. Hikiyama has a history of over 400 years and is celebrated as a symbol of Nagahama’s heritage, community spirit, and artistic excellence.
Nagahama Castle is also a popular site for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in the spring, attracting many visitors to admire the flowers and the historic landscape.
Sakura Season © O. Robert
The Final Word
Nagahama Castle, with its rich historical past and modern reconstruction, offers visitors a glimpse into the era of samurai warriors and the history of feudal Japan. It symbolizes the rise and fall of warlords, the political and cultural changes of the time, and serves as a tangible link between the past and the present.
The castle is not only a historical monument but also a place of learning and celebration of Japanese culture, through its exhibitions, festivals, and events. It is a must-visit in all seasons, especially in the evening, when the contrast of the illuminated castle against the dark backdrop of the lake makes for interesting night photography.
