Shiga Travel Guide

Introduction

Tired of crowded temples and overpriced souvenirs in Kyoto? Just 30–60 minutes away, Shiga offers peaceful nature, historic charm, and hidden gems untouched by mass tourism. As someone born and raised in Shiga, I’d love to introduce you to six special places you probably haven’t heard of—yet.

1. Shirahige Shrine（白髭神社）　‐The Floating Torii, Water Adventures, and Lakeside Camping

Shirahige Shrine is famous for its iconic torii gate standing in the waters of Lake Biwa, often called the “Itsukushima of Shiga.” But it’s not just about the view — this area is a hidden gem for outdoor lovers.Many people also visit the shrine during the New Year, arriving in the middle of the night to witness the first sunrise of the year over the lake.

🛶 Try SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding)

In the crystal-clear waters around the torii gate. It’s a peaceful and memorable way to experience the lake’s beauty.There are SUP activities available on-site, so why not give it a try? I’ve done it myself before, and even as a beginner, it was easy and fun!

🏖️ Popular Lakeside Beach in Summer

In summer, the area becomes a popular lakeside beach.
Visitors can enjoy swimming and relaxing along the shore with a view of the sacred torii gate.

🏕️ Stay Overnight Surrounded by Nature

A campground is also located nearby,making it a great destination for those who want to stay overnight and enjoy nature at a slower pace.

🚃 Access

Take the JR Kosei Line from Kyoto Station (approx. 40 min) to Omi-Takashima Station, then a 10-minute taxi ride.

📸 Best time to visit

Early morning for sunrise photos, or late afternoon for golden hour light.

📍 Takashima City

2. Omi-Hachiman Old Town & Mt. Hachiman（八幡堀と八幡山）

Hachiman-bori Canal once connected Lake Biwa with the castle town of Omihachiman, and today it remains a charming destination with a beautifully preserved old town atmosphere. Along the stone-paved paths, you’ll find historic buildings that transport you back in time.

🚤 Highlights – A Stroll Through Time

Hachiman-bori (八幡堀) is a beautiful canal surrounded by historic buildings and stone-paved paths, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Japan’s past.
You can take a ride on a traditional yakatabune (屋形船) boat to explore the canal from the water.

Interestingly, this scenic area has also been featured in movies such as Rurouni Kenshin, making it a favorite among film fans.
The canal is lined with stylish cafés and shops housed in renovated traditional homes, where you can enjoy local sweets or shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs.

🐮 Taste Local – Try Omi Beef!

The town of Omihachiman is famous for Omi beef (近江牛), one of Japan’s top-ranked wagyu brands.
You’ll find many restaurants near the canal where you can enjoy tender, flavorful Omi beef in various styles—from sukiyaki to grilled steaks.
If you’re a foodie, this is a must-try!

🚶 Access & Scenic Views

From Kyoto, it takes about 30 minutes by JR to Omihachiman Station.
From there, it’s a short taxi ride or a pleasant walk to the canal area.

For a panoramic view of Lake Biwa and the old town, take the ropeway to Mount Hachiman (八幡山ロープウェイ).
It’s an easy hike and well worth it for the breathtaking scenery.

📍 Omi-Hachiman City

3. Hikone Castle（彦根城）－A National Treasure with a Samurai Spirit

Hikone Castle is one of Japan’s few remaining original castles and has been designated as a National Treasure. Built in the early 17th century, it is famous for its beautiful white three-story keep and traditional wooden interiors that allow visitors to feel the atmosphere of the Edo period.

🐱 Meet “Hikonyan”

One of the castle’s biggest attractions is its adorable mascot, Hikonyan—a white cat wearing a samurai helmet. He was created to commemorate the castle’s 400th anniversary and appears at scheduled times during the day to greet visitors (especially popular with kids!).

🧭 Access

From Kyoto Station, take the JR Biwako Line to Hikone Station. It takes approximately 50–60 minutes. The castle is about a 15-minute walk from the station.

🌸 Seasonal Highlights

• Spring: Cherry blossoms bloom around the moat—perfect for hanami.
• Autumn: Stunning foliage surrounds the castle, creating a postcard-worthy view.
• Winter: The snow-covered keep looks magical and serene.

🛍️ Nearby Attractions

After visiting the castle, explore the Yume Kyobashi Castle Road—a charming street filled with Edo-style buildings, souvenir shops, cafés, and restaurants. You can also visit the Hikone Castle Museum, located on the same grounds, which houses samurai armor and historical artifacts.

📸 Travel Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes—there are stairs and stone paths.
• Great photo opportunities from the top of the castle tower overlooking Lake Biwa.
• Don’t miss a chance to grab a photo with Hikonyan!

📍 Hikone City

4. Metasequoia Tree Avenue & Kaizu Osaki（メタセコイア並木と海津大崎）

This picturesque 2.4 km-long straight avenue features about 500 Metasequoia (dawn redwood) trees, creating a breathtaking green tunnel. It was selected as one of the New 100 Roadside Tree Views by Yomiuri Shimbun. The road transforms beautifully across all four seasons:

• 🌸 Spring: Fresh green sprouting
• 🌿 Summer: Dense green foliage
• 🍁 Autumn: Fiery golden leaves
• ❄️ Winter: A serene snowy landscape

🐴Nearby Attractions

Nearby, visitors can enjoy cozy cafés and a unique facility where you can interact with retired racehorses. In winter, it’s recommended to use snow tires due to heavy snow.

🧭 Access

From JR Makino Station, take the Makino Kogen Line bus to Makino Pickland (about 6 minutes). Free parking is available.

📍 Takashima City

Kaizu Osaki – Cherry Blossoms Along the Shores of Lake Biwa

Kaizu Osaki, located in Takashima City in northwestern Lake Biwa, is one of Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots. About 800 cherry trees (Somei-Yoshino) bloom along a scenic 4-kilometer stretch, forming a breathtaking tunnel of pink beside the lake.

📸 Highlights

The blossoms can be admired not only by walking or cycling, but also from seasonal cruise boats that offer stunning views from the water. In spring, the contrast between the cherry blossoms, the sparkling lake, and the mountains in the background creates a spectacle you won’t forget.

🚃 Access

From JR Makino Station, it’s about 20 minutes by local bus or rental bicycle. During peak bloom, we recommend using public transport or bikes due to heavy traffic. Cherry blossom cruise boats are also available (advance reservation recommended).

📍 Takashima City

5. Ishiyama-dera Temple（石山寺）－The Stone Mountain Temple of Literary Legends

Founded around 747, Ishiyama‑dera (“Stone Mountain Temple”) is a revered Shingon Buddhist temple in Ōtsu, Shiga Prefecture, richly woven into Japan’s literary and cultural heritage. It is the 13th stop on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage and stands on a rare wollastonite rock formation, which inspired its name.

This was the place where the famed novelist Murasaki Shikibu was inspired during a full moon in 1004 to begin writing The Tale of Genji. The temple still honors her memory with a dedicated Genji Room featuring her likeness.

Within its grounds, you’ll find Japan’s oldest Tahōtō pagoda (built 1194) and the Heian-period main hall (Hondō) rebuilt in 1096—both designated as National Treasures.

A serene temple known for its literary history and seasonal flowers. It’s also the place where “The Tale of Genji” was written.

🧭 How to Get There

From Sanjo Keihan Station in Kyoto, you can enjoy a scenic ride on the Keihan Electric Railway (Keihan Line) all the way to Ishiyamadera Station. From there, the temple is just a 10–15 minute walk.

🍡 Take a Break with Local Flavors

In the surrounding area, you’ll find cozy soba noodle restaurants and traditional Japanese confectionery shops—perfect for a relaxing break after your temple visit.

🌸 Best Time to Visit

Ishiyama-dera is stunning year-round, but especially during the cherry blossom season in early April and the autumn foliage in late November.

📍 Otsu City

6．Michigan Cruise – Scenic Boat Tours on Lake Biwa

The “Michigan” is a paddlewheel sightseeing cruise boat that departs from Otsu Port and tours the southern part of Lake Biwa. Named after Michigan State in the U.S., the boat features a charming southern-style exterior and live jazz performances onboard.

You can enjoy scenic views of Mt. Hiei, lakeside towns, and seasonal landscapes from the open deck. Each season offers a new experience—cherry blossoms in spring, fireworks in summer, vibrant leaves in autumn, and tranquil waters in winter.

📸 Onboard Features

• Live jazz music and performances
• Buffet and lunch cruise options (reservations required)
• Popular sunset and night cruises
• Observation decks with panoramic views

🚃 Access

• About 5–10 minutes on foot from JR Otsu Station or Keihan Biwako-Hamaotsu Station
• Cruises depart from Otsu Port (Online reservation available)
• Cruise duration: approx. 60–80 minutes depending on the plan

📍 Otsu City

Conclusion

These scenic and historical gems show just how diverse and peaceful Shiga can be. As a local, I truly believe this area has as much to offer as Kyoto—without the stress of tourist crowds. Whether you love castles, canals, temples, or nature, there’s something here just for you.