Photo= The screen for "NAVIHIKO" which offers Hikone sightseeing maps and audio guides, such as for Hikone Castle

Hikone City has started distribution via free download of "NAVIHIKO," the Hikone sightseeing guide application software for smartphones. It provides guide maps and audio guides for sightseeing spots such as Hikone Castle.

"NAVIHIKO" displays maps of the current location and surrounding spots based on information from the smartphone's Global Positioning System (GPS). Users can search information and maps regarding tourist facilities, stores, transportation facilities and others, which are classified by purpose, such as "Eat" and "Buy," or by areas, such as Hikone Station vicinity and Hikone castle town. Furthermore, it provides recommended tourist routes.

As Japanese audio guides are provided for 11 major sightseeing spots, such as Hikone Castle, users can stroll through the city listening to explanations of the attractions. It also has a function for on demand display of delivered information, including schedules and events for "Hikonyan," the poplar mascot of Hikone City.

It is available in five different languages: Japanese, English, Korean, and both simplified and traditional Chinese. It can be used in devices with either Apple or Android operating system (OS).