Shiga Travel Guide: Serene Lakes, Temples, and Timeless Beauty

Shiga Prefecture, home to Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake, offers travelers tranquility, historic temples, and stunning scenery. Just a short trip from Kyoto, Shiga invites you to experience peaceful countryside, ancient shrines, and picturesque lakeside towns.

Contents

Timeless Temples and Historical Heritage
Lake Biwa’s Natural Charm
Local Flavors and Culinary Traditions
Wabi-Sabi Moments in Shiga
How to Get There

Timeless Temples and Historical Heritage

Enryaku-ji Temple (Mount Hiei): UNESCO World Heritage temple complex, offering tranquility and panoramic views.
Hikone Castle: One of Japan’s best-preserved original castles, set beside beautiful gardens and moats.
Miidera Temple (Onjo-ji): Ancient Buddhist temple famous for cherry blossoms, history, and peaceful gardens.

Lake Biwa’s Natural Charm

Biwako Valley: Spectacular views of Lake Biwa from mountains accessible by ropeway, popular for hiking and skiing.
Chikubu Island: A sacred island in Lake Biwa, home to shrines and temples, offering a spiritual retreat and peaceful hikes.
Omi-Maiko Beach: Relaxing beach resort area perfect for swimming, kayaking, and lakeside relaxation in summer.

Local Flavors and Culinary Traditions

Omi Beef: One of Japan’s top-quality wagyu beef brands, renowned for its tenderness and rich flavor.
Funazushi: Traditional fermented sushi unique to Lake Biwa area — a strong yet fascinating taste experience.
Omi Rice: High-quality rice grown around Lake Biwa, known for its sweetness and perfect texture.

Wabi-Sabi Moments in Shiga

Sitting quietly by Lake Biwa, watching gentle waves and drifting clouds
Walking through ancient cedar forests on Mount Hiei, accompanied only by birdsong
Enjoying cherry blossoms reflected on castle moats at Hikone Castle
Contemplating the calm beauty of shrines on Chikubu Island

Shiga offers travelers the space to breathe, reflect, and appreciate beauty in its purest form. From sacred islands to peaceful lakeside retreats, find your moment of Zen just beyond Kyoto’s bustle.

How to Get There

To Otsu (Shiga’s Capital): JR trains from Kyoto (~10 min), Osaka (~40 min).
To Hikone: Accessible by JR Biwako Line from Kyoto (~45 min).
To Mount Hiei: Accessible by cable car and ropeway from Kyoto or Otsu.