30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Shiga Prefecture | Dec 2025
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What activities can I do in Shiga Prefecture?
Shiga Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical sites. Here are some of the top things to do in Shiga Prefecture: 1. Visit Lake Biwa: As Japan's largest freshwater lake, Lake Biwa is a must-visit attraction. You can enjoy various water activities such as boat cruises, fishing, and swimming. The lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery, making it a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. 2. Explore Hikone Castle: Hikone Castle is one of the few original castles remaining in Japan. Built in the 17th century, it is a designated national treasure and offers stunning views of Lake Biwa. Inside the castle, you can explore the museum and learn about its history. 3. Take a stroll in Omi Jingu Shrine: Located in Otsu City, Omi Jingu Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Tenji, who reigned during the 7th century. The shrine is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. It is especially popular during the New Year's period when locals come to pray for good luck. 4. Visit Enryaku-ji Temple: Located on Mount Hiei, Enryaku-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Japan's most important Buddhist monasteries. The temple complex offers stunning views of Kyoto and Lake Biwa. You can explore the various temple buildings and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. 5. Discover the historic town of Hino: Hino is a small town known for its well-preserved traditional streets and buildings. Take a walk along the Hino Merchant Street and explore the old sake breweries and traditional shops. The town also hosts various festivals throughout the year, offering a glimpse into local traditions. 6. Enjoy hot springs in Koka: Koka is famous for its hot springs, offering a relaxing experience surrounded by nature. You can visit one of the many hot spring resorts in the area and soak in the healing waters. Some resorts even offer outdoor baths with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. 7. Explore Nagahama Castle and Hachiman Shrine: Nagahama Castle, also known as Nagahama Hachimangu, is a reconstructed castle that offers panoramic views of Lake Biwa. Next to the castle, you can visit Hachiman Shrine, which is dedicated to the god of war. The area is also known for its vibrant festivals, including the Nagahama Hikiyama Festival. 8. Try Omi beef: Shiga Prefecture is known for its high-quality Omi beef, which is considered one of the top wagyu beef varieties in Japan. Indulge in a delicious Omi beef meal at one of the local restaurants and savor the tender, marbled meat. 9. Visit Miho Museum: Located in the scenic hills of Shigaraki, Miho Museum is a unique art museum designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei. The museum showcases a collection of ancient artifacts from around the world, as well as contemporary art exhibitions. Its stunning architecture and beautiful surroundings make it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts. 10. Explore the Chikubu Island: Located in the middle of Lake Biwa, Chikubu Island is a small island known for its picturesque scenery and ancient temples. Take a ferry to the island and explore the Chikubu Island Shrine, which is designated as a national treasure. The island also offers hiking trails and beautiful views of the lake. These are just a few of the many things to do in Shiga Prefecture. Whether you are interested in nature, history, or cultural experiences, Shiga has something to offer for every traveler.
When is the best time to travel to Shiga Prefecture?
The best time to travel to Shiga Prefecture, Japan, is during the spring and autumn seasons. In spring (March to May), the weather is mild and cherry blossoms bloom across the region, creating a picturesque landscape. This is a great time to visit popular spots like Lake Biwa, Hikone Castle, and the Miho Museum. Autumn (September to November) is also a fantastic time to visit Shiga Prefecture. The weather is pleasant, and the foliage turns into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The autumn leaves in places like Mount Hiei and the gardens of Ishiyama-dera Temple are particularly stunning. Additionally, Shiga Prefecture hosts several festivals throughout the year. The Nagahama Hikiyama Festival in April, featuring impressive floats, and the Omihachiman Sagicho Festival in March, with fire-walking ceremonies, are worth experiencing. It's important to note that Shiga Prefecture can get quite hot and humid during the summer months (June to August) and can experience heavy snowfall in winter (December to February). While these seasons have their own charm, they may not be ideal for all travelers.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Shiga Prefecture
Shiga Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is a destination that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some highlights of the travel culture in Shiga: 1. Historical Sites: Shiga is home to numerous historical sites, including the iconic Hikone Castle. Built in the 17th century, this well-preserved castle offers visitors a glimpse into Japan's feudal past. Other notable historical sites include the Miho Museum, which houses a collection of ancient artifacts, and the Enryaku-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful scenery and historical significance. 2. Lake Biwa: Shiga is blessed with Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake. The lake offers a variety of activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming. Visitors can also explore the surrounding areas, including the scenic lakeside towns of Otsu and Nagahama, which offer stunning views of the lake and its surrounding mountains. 3. Traditional Crafts: Shiga is renowned for its traditional crafts, including Omi beef, Omi textiles, and Shigaraki pottery. Omi beef is considered one of Japan's top-quality beef varieties and is a must-try for food enthusiasts. Omi textiles, known for their intricate designs and high-quality craftsmanship, are produced using traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. Shigaraki pottery, famous for its distinctive style and durability, can be found in various forms such as tea ceremony utensils and garden ornaments. 4. Festivals: Shiga is known for its vibrant festivals, which showcase the region's rich cultural heritage. One of the most famous festivals is the Nagahama Hikiyama Festival, held in April, which features elaborate floats paraded through the streets accompanied by traditional music and dance. The Otsu Matsuri, held in October, is another popular festival that showcases traditional Japanese performing arts, including taiko drumming and yosakoi dance. 5. Onsen (Hot Springs): Shiga is home to several hot springs, where visitors can relax and rejuvenate in the healing waters. The most famous hot spring in Shiga is the Ogoto Onsen, known for its therapeutic properties and scenic views of Lake Biwa. Many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) in the region offer onsen facilities, allowing visitors to experience a traditional Japanese bathing culture. Overall, Shiga Prefecture offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers looking to explore the authentic side of Japan.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Shiga Prefecture
When visiting Shiga Prefecture in Japan, there are several unique shopping items and souvenirs that you can consider bringing back home. Here are some popular options: 1. Omi-mai Rice: Shiga is known for its high-quality rice called ""Omi-mai."" Consider purchasing a pack of this delicious rice as a souvenir for yourself or as a gift for someone who appreciates Japanese cuisine. 2. Shigaraki Pottery: Shigaraki is a famous pottery town in Shiga Prefecture. You can find a wide range of traditional pottery items such as tea sets, vases, and tableware. Look for the iconic tanuki (raccoon dog) statues, which are a symbol of good luck. 3. Hikone Castle Souvenirs: Hikone Castle is one of the few remaining original castles in Japan. You can find various souvenirs related to Hikone Castle, including keychains, postcards, and miniature models. 4. Lake Biwa Pearls: Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan, is famous for its high-quality pearls. Consider purchasing pearl jewelry or accessories made from these local pearls as a unique and elegant souvenir. 5. Omi Chijimi Fabric: Omi Chijimi is a traditional textile from Shiga Prefecture. It is known for its light and breathable texture, making it perfect for summer clothing. Look for chijimi scarves, handkerchiefs, or clothing items made from this fabric. 6. Nagahama Yaki Pottery: Nagahama is another town in Shiga Prefecture known for its pottery. Nagahama Yaki features beautiful handcrafted ceramics, including tea sets, plates, and decorative items. 7. Otsu-e Paintings: Otsu-e are traditional folk paintings from Otsu, the capital city of Shiga Prefecture. These colorful and vibrant paintings often depict animals, landscapes, or historical figures. Consider purchasing a small Otsu-e painting as a unique piece of Japanese art. 8. Echizen Washi Paper Products: Echizen Washi is a traditional Japanese paper made in Fukui Prefecture, which is adjacent to Shiga. You can find various paper products such as notebooks, postcards, and origami sets made from this durable and beautiful paper. Remember to check the local shops, department stores, and souvenir shops around popular tourist attractions in Shiga Prefecture to find these unique and region-specific items.
Shiga Prefecture travel review
Shiga Prefecture: A Hidden Gem in Japan Nestled in the heart of Honshu, Japan's main island, lies the picturesque Shiga Prefecture. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors such as Kyoto and Osaka, this hidden gem offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage that is sure to captivate any traveler. One of the main attractions of Shiga Prefecture is its stunning lakes. Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan, is a sight to behold. Surrounded by lush green mountains, the lake offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can take a leisurely boat ride, go fishing, or simply relax on the lakeshore and soak in the breathtaking scenery. For nature enthusiasts, a visit to Mount Hiei is a must. Located on the border between Shiga and Kyoto, this sacred mountain is home to Enryaku-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple complex is a spiritual haven, with its ancient buildings, peaceful gardens, and panoramic views of the surrounding area. Hiking up Mount Hiei is a rewarding experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature and discover hidden shrines and waterfalls along the way. Shiga Prefecture is also steeped in history, with numerous historical sites that offer a glimpse into Japan's past. Hikone Castle, one of the few remaining original castles in the country, is a testament to the region's feudal era. Its elegant architecture and well-preserved interior make it a popular destination for history buffs. The castle is surrounded by a beautiful garden, which changes with the seasons, adding to its charm. Another historical gem in Shiga is the Miho Museum. Designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei, this museum showcases a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world. Its unique location, nestled in the mountains and accessible via a scenic tunnel, adds to the sense of anticipation as visitors approach the museum. Inside, visitors can admire ancient Egyptian artifacts, Japanese ceramics, and contemporary art, all displayed in a harmonious and thought-provoking manner. Shiga Prefecture is also known for its traditional crafts. The town of Otsu is famous for its lacquerware, which is meticulously handcrafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Visitors can watch artisans at work and even try their hand at creating their own lacquerware masterpiece. The town of Nagahama is renowned for its intricate textile weaving, with the Kurokabe Square serving as a hub for local artisans and shops. No visit to Shiga would be complete without indulging in its local cuisine. Omi beef, considered one of Japan's finest beef varieties, is a must-try. Grilled to perfection and served with a variety of dipping sauces, it is a culinary delight that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Shiga is also famous for its freshwater fish, particularly the delicious ayu (sweetfish) and funazushi (fermented crucian carp). These unique flavors are a testament to the region's rich culinary heritage. In conclusion, Shiga Prefecture offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical attractions, and cultural experiences. Whether you are seeking tranquility by the lakeside, exploring ancient temples, or immersing yourself in traditional crafts, Shiga has something to offer for every traveler. So, why not venture off the beaten path and discover the hidden treasures of Shiga Prefecture on your next trip to Japan?