Hikone Castle selected as candidate for UNESCO World Heritage nomination

Hikone Castle has been selected as a candidate for domestic recommendation for UNESCO World Heritage status. The Council for Cultural Affairs issued a report stating that the castle possesses “outstanding universal value” as a physical testament to the daimyo governance system used during the Edo period.

This system, which was unique to Japan, allowed daimyo to maintain centralized control from their local bases, contributing to long-term social stability. The castle's historical value is represented by its various structures, including its moats, stone walls, keep, gates, and residential areas.

Shiga Governor Taizo Mikazuki expressed gratitude for the selection, noting it is a major milestone after more than 30 years of effort. He emphasized that the goal is to achieve official registration by 2028 and stressed the importance of balancing the preservation of the site with its local utilization.