Nagahama

Nagahama is a town located in Shiga Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich history and cultural attractions. One of the main highlights in Nagahama is Nagahama Castle, which, although a reconstruction of the original structure from the 16th century, offers fascinating insights into the region's history and beautiful views of Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan. Inside the castle, there is a museum that displays artifacts and documents related to the Sengoku period and the figure of Hideyoshi Toyotomi, one of Japan's most important daimyōs. Another attraction is the Nagahama Hikiyama Matsuri, a festival held in April, recognized as an intangible cultural heritage of Japan. The festival is famous for its spectacular, richly decorated floats, on which children perform traditional Japanese kabuki shows. It is an unforgettable experience that attracts both locals and tourists. Nagahama is also home to the Kurokabe Garden, a unique space filled with shops, galleries, and workshops for art glass. This center combines traditional craftsmanship with modern design, offering visitors the chance to purchase unique, handcrafted souvenirs. Another unique place is the Showa-kan, a museum dedicated to life during the Shōwa period, where one can see reconstructions of typical Japanese living spaces from that era and a variety of retro artifacts. Nagahama also serves as a gateway to discovering picturesque landscapes such as the nearby Biwako Valley or Chikubu Island, known for its temples and shrines. Nagahama offers both historical experiences and a connection to traditional and contemporary Japanese culture.