Nagahama is best known as a castle on Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan.

The original castle was constructed in the 16th century; however, a replica now stands and serves as a museum with exhibits focused on the history of the Jomon people, the oldest cultural group in Japan. Exhibits also highlight the ballistic relationship that Nagahama has with Tanegashima, and on the top-level an observation deck provides panoramic views of the mountain, lake, and the Shiga Prefecture.

There are several other attractions in Nagahama which is thriving since its days as a post town including Black Wall Square, Kurokabe Glass Kansho Kan, The Flintlock Museum, and the oldest railway station in Japan.

Visit in April to celebrate the Nagahama Festival with kabuki theater. Nagahama

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Step 4: Estimate your driving time using Google Maps (click the blue 'Directions' arrow in the search box).

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