Location Overview

JCMU's campus is located in Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan. The Center lies on the eastern shore of Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan (and 3rd oldest lake in the world!).

Hikone

Quick Facts:

• Population: ~110,000 people
• Known for Hikone Castle (featuring the Hikone Castle Museum) and Hikonyan
• On the eastern shore of Lake Biwa
• Near Kyoto, Nagoya, and Osaka
• Sister city of Ann Arbor, Michigan

Helpful Resources:

• Shiga Tourism Official Website: Hikone Area
• Google Maps: JCMU Hikone Campus

Hikone Castle

Hikone is centered around Hikone Castle, a stronghold built by Ii Naomasa during a twenty year period beginning in 1604. The castle is one of only twelve Japanese castles to remain in its original construction, and one of the four castles considered a national treasures.

Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa is the largest freshwater lake in Japan. The lake is named for its shape, which resembles the stringed instrument of the same name often used in traditional narrative storytelling. JCMU's campus is directly connected to a promenade that runs along water's edge, and a public beach is within easy walking distance.