Surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of Lake Biwa, Shiga Prefecture is a place where nature and history blend harmoniously. It’s an enchanting destination where you can stroll along the picturesque lakeside, visit historical sites such as Hikone Castle, and even indulge in local cuisine. If you’re heading to Shiga Prefecture, we’ve curated a list of activities you’ll definitely want to experience, so be sure to use them as inspiration for your next trip!
Feast on Omi Beef
One cannot visit Shiga Prefecture without tasting Omi beef, one of Japan’s top three Wagyu varieties. With a history of over 400 years, this brand of beef is known for its delicate marbling and tender texture, melting in your mouth with every bite.
The Kansai-style sukiyaki is a delicious way to enjoy it, with the beef’s lower melting point making the dish even more flavorful. Alternatively, if you prefer a simpler approach to savor the meat, we recommend trying a steak!
Stroll Through Hikone Castle and the Castle Town
Hikone Castle, a national treasure of Japan, still retains the appearance of the Edo period. From the castle’s main keep, you can enjoy stunning views of Lake Biwa, making it a must-visit spot in Shiga Prefecture.
In the castle town along Yumekyobashi Castle Road, you can soak in the nostalgic atmosphere while enjoying Omi beef burgers and desserts from Club Harie.
Additionally, the attached Hikone Castle Museum exhibits valuable ancient artworks from the Ii family. The historical documents are also fascinating. If you are a history enthusiast, be sure to take some time to enjoy sightseeing here.
【Address】
1-1 Kanokicho, Hikone City, Shiga Prefecture
【Business Hours】
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
【Access】
- By train: About a 20-minute walk from JR Tokaido Main Line Hikone Station
- By car: About a 14-minute drive from Meishin Expressway Hikone IC
Admire Lake Biwa from the Biwako Terrace
The "Biwako Terrace" offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Lake Biwa from an altitude of around 1,100 meters. Each season provides stunning vistas, with the sea of clouds often visible from autumn to spring, creating a truly mystical sight.
At the northern terrace’s "Infinity Lounge," you can relax on luxurious sofa seating while taking in the magnificent view of Lake Biwa spread out before you!
The café also serves desserts and beverages made with local ingredients, so you can enjoy a relaxing and indulgent time.
【Address】
1547-1 Kido, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture
【Business Hours】
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
【Access】
- By train: About a 1-minute walk from the Biwako Valley Ropeway Base Station
- By car: About a 38-minute drive from the Kyoto East IC on the Meishin Expressway
Visit the Metasequoia Tree-Lined Avenue
The "Metasequoia Tree-Lined Avenue" in Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture, is a scenic 2.4-kilometer-long road lined with approximately 500 metasequoia trees. Many visitors from across the Kansai region come for a day trip just to witness this majestic view!
The charm lies in its seasonal beauty. The fresh green of spring, the deep green of summer, the red leaves of autumn, and the snowy landscape of winter provide a different atmosphere each time you visit.
During autumn, the tree-lined road turns into a stunning canopy of vibrant red leaves, attracting many visitors. With numerous parking lots and cafés in the area, it's a perfect place to visit and spend a romantic time.
【Address】Makinocho, Makino, Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture
【Access】
- By bus: From JR Kosei Line Makino Station, take the Takashima City Community Bus to "Makino Kogen Daikōzen" and walk about 8 minutes from the Makino Pickland Bus Stop
- By car: About a 9-minute drive from Route 287 off the Biwako West Expressway, Shiga Prefecture
Try Omi Champon Noodles
When visiting Shiga Prefecture, be sure to try the local delicacy, "Omi Champon" noodles. This soul food of Shiga is simple in flavor yet so rich that you'll crave it again and again.
The clear Japanese-style broth and hearty vegetables are its distinguishing features. Unlike Nagasaki Champon, Omi Champon doesn’t use seafood, instead blending the natural sweetness of the broth with the vegetables!
Another recommended way to enjoy it is by adding vinegar midway through to alter the flavor.
Take a Lake Biwa Cruise
To fully enjoy Lake Biwa, we recommend taking a boat cruise! The “Michigan Cruise” offered by Biwako Kisen allows you to enjoy gourmet cuisine while admiring a 360-degree panoramic view of the lake.
The "Chikubu Island Cruise," which tours the spiritual island of Chikubu, is also popular. In addition to seeing Lake Biwa, you can stroll around Chikubu Island, said to be an island where deities reside!
Moreover, on the Seta River/Lake Biwa cruise, you can board the vintage paddle steamer “Ichibanmaru” and experience a charming, history-filled voyage, fully taking in the beauty of Lake Biwa from the water.
Stay at Ogoto Onsen
Ogoto Onsen is a historic hot spring resort located on the shores of Lake Biwa. Known for its alkaline hot springs, it is highly reputed for its skin-beautifying properties.
It is said that Ogoto Onsen was founded approximately 1,200 years ago during the Heian period by Saichō, the founder of the Tendai sect on Mount Hiei. Nestled at the foot of Mount Hiei, it serves as a hidden retreat in the Kansai region.
Ogoto Onsen is easily accessible, just about 20 minutes by train from Kyoto, making it a popular destination for those looking to enjoy hot springs while visiting Kyoto.
Purchase Shigaraki Ware
Shigaraki Ware, originating from the Shigaraki region in Koka City, Shiga Prefecture, is famous for its ceramic raccoon dog figurines, which are well-known throughout Japan.
In Shigaraki, you’ll find many shops selling various Shigaraki crafts, from decorative raccoon figurines to tableware and home décor! Exploring the shops to find your favorite Shigaraki ware can be a delightful experience.
Some stores also offer hands-on workshops where you can create your own Shigaraki ware, from painting to crafting your very own tanuki figurine.
Stroll through Nagahama's Kurokabe Square
Nagahama’s Kurokabe Square is a tourist destination that repurposes the traditional architecture of the city's old town. The most striking feature of the townscape is its vintage black walls.
Within the historic buildings of Kurokabe Square, you'll find trendy cafés and quaint shops, perfect for couples and families to explore while enjoying a leisurely stroll and meal together.
The glassware and music box shops are also popular here. Moreover, there are workshops where you can create your own glass products or music boxes—an experience not to be missed if time permits!
【Address】
12-38 Motohama-cho, Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture
【Opening Hours】
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
【Access】
- By train: About a 12-minute walk from JR Hokuriku Main Line Nagahama Station
- By car: About an 11-minute drive from the Nagahama IC on the Hokuriku Expressway
Explore the Water Town of Ōmihachiman
A boat tour through Ōmihachiman's water town is a serene experience, where you can drift along the reeds and western lakes while taking in the seasonal beauty of Japan's traditional landscapes.
The cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons offer particularly stunning views, their delicate beauty sure to soothe your soul. You can also indulge in luxurious moments by enjoying Omi beef sukiyaki or bento onboard.
Once aboard, you'll feel time slow down, making it a perfect activity for those with busy lifestyles seeking tranquility.
Enjoy Shiga's Beautiful Scenery!
Shiga Prefecture is a place full of charm, where you can immerse yourself in rich nature, historic landmarks, local delicacies, and leisure activities centered around Lake Biwa!
We invite you to visit Shiga and spend some time refreshing your soul.
