Hikone City is one of thriving cities in Shiga and was once the second largest centre of commerce and industry next to Otsu City which is a capital city. There is a castle in Hikone City and it is one of the most famous castles in Japan. The castle was raised by Naomasa Ii, who was one of Ieyasu Tokugawa’s feudal vassals, in 1607. Therefore, it means that the 400th anniversary finished two years ago, but there is an attracting event coming up concerning Hikone Castle. The event is the 150th anniversary of the Amity Commercial Treaty between Japan and the United States. It seems to be irrelevant to Hikone City, but it has something significant to do with Hikone City. This is because that the treaty with the United States was concluded by Naosuke Ii who was a remote descendant of Naomasa Ii. The event is currently open and finishes in March, 2010.
Finally, One thing I have to introduce to you is the memorial character, Hikonyan. This character was originally made to represent the lord of Hikone Castle, Naomasa Ii. It is now one of the most popular characters in Japan. Therefore, it is a suitable souvenir from Hikone City.
Click on this for further details.
http://www.hikone-400th.jp/
For any questions and further information, please feel free to ask me at any time!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Do you konw Nagoya is the 400th anniversary to come to tycoon in Nagoya this year!I might have not seen Hikonyam, soI'd like to see it!
ReplyDeleteThis seems like a rather weak excuse to have a festival, but I guess a weak excuse is better than absolutely no excuse. Does Hikone have a US sister city? Are they also celebrating this anniversary? That might make an interesting article or link to add.
ReplyDeleteHikonyan could be famous among girls.
ReplyDeleteit sounds cute :)
Making these charactors is the most important advertising strategy for the local communities. Hikone has been successful.
ReplyDelete