For a fascinating history lesson, check out the crumbling ruins of Sawayama Castle Ruins and try to imagine how it looked in its prime.
If you've got time to stop for a while in Hikone, Sawayama Castle Ruins is an interesting place to start your sightseeing. This once-important structure is one of many attractions that'll keep you on the hop here. Hikone Castle, Taga Shrine, and Ryotanji Temple are also waiting to be explored nearby.