09.09.2025
Sightseeing
Shiga - Japanese Prefectures Part23
It offers rich nature and stunning seasonal scenery.
You can explore many historical temples and castles for a cultural experience.
With easy access from Kyoto and Osaka, it's perfect for a day trip.
Recommended Location
Lake Biwa
Lake Biwa is the largest lake in Japan and the symbol of Shiga Prefecture.You can enjoy activities like cruising, kayaking, and fishing on the lake.
The lakeside is home to beautiful nature and historic shrines and temples.
It’s a popular tourist destination with scenic views in every season.
Hikone Castle
Hikone Castle is a national treasure preserving original Edo-period architecture.It features beautiful white walls and a main keep that represents traditional Japanese castle design.
Inside, you can see samurai armor and historical exhibits that offer cultural insights.
You might also meet "Hikonyan," the castle's popular mascot, at special events.
Omihachiman
Ōmihachiman is a historic town located on the eastern shore of Lake Biwa.The town features the Hachiman-bori Canal, where you can enjoy a relaxing boat ride.
It preserves the legacy of the Ōmi merchants and traditional architecture.
With its calm atmosphere and scenic beauty, it’s an ideal place for a peaceful visit.
Enryaku-ji Temple
Enryaku-ji Temple is the headquarters of the Tendai sect, located on Mount Hiei at the border of Ōtsu City (Shiga) and Kyoto.It was founded in 788 by the monk Saichō and has been a significant training site in Japanese Buddhism.
The vast temple grounds are scattered with historic buildings, surrounded by serene nature.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers a deeply spiritual and historical experience.
The Former Chikurin-in Garden
The Former Chikurin-in Garden is a beautiful Japanese garden located in the Sakamoto area of Ōtsu City, at the foot of Mount Hiei in Shiga Prefecture.It was originally a lodging for monks of the Tendai sect and retains its historical architecture.
The garden features a traditional strolling design and is especially stunning during the autumn foliage.
Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and traditional Japanese garden aesthetics.
Shigaraki ware
Shigaraki ware is a traditional pottery with over 1,300 years of history, produced in Shigaraki Town, Shiga Prefecture.It is known for its rustic and warm texture, with ceramic tanuki (raccoon dog) statues being especially famous.
Shigaraki is located in the southeastern part of Shiga, where many pottery kilns are found.
There are also pottery workshops where visitors can try making their own ceramics, making it a popular tourist attraction.
