Shiga Prefecture holds a unique place in Japan's landscape. It is home to Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake, and offers a plethora of historic temples, shrines, and traditional festivals that give visitors a genuine taste of Japanese life. Many travelers visit Shiga for a day trip as they explore Kyoto or Osaka, but Shiga has much more to offer than can be found in one day. This hidden gem is excellent for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts as the scenery and views are some of the most incredible in Japan.

To fully experience Shiga Prefecture, a 2-3 day stay is ideal. This gives you time to explore its top attractions, including Lake Biwa, historical sites, and cultural highlights. If you are interested in just seeing the main places of interest, Hakone and Omi-Hachiman should be at the top of your list.

Also, the 200 KM BIWAICHI cycling course, which encircles Lake Biwa, is a popular route for cyclists. While advanced cyclists can complete the circuit in a day, taking a slower pace over multiple days allows visitors to enjoy more of the local charm.

Shiga Prefecture has a few main areas that can be explored, each offering different landscapes, cultural treasures, or historic small towns.

Day 1: Otsu and Lake Biwa
・Morning: Begin in Otsu, the capital of Shiga. Visit Mt. Hiei and the Enryakuji Temple, a major Buddhist site with incredible views of Lake Biwa, accessible by hike or cable car.
・Afternoon: Stroll through the canals and historic streets of Omihachiman, a charming town reminiscent of Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path. Consider a boat ride on the canals or a local beer at Two Rabbits Brewing.
・Evening: Watch the sunset at Lake Biwa and enjoy local specialties like funa-zushi (fermented sushi) or Omi beef for dinner.

Day 2: Hikone and Cultural Sites
・Morning: Head to Hikone to explore Hikone Castle, an Edo-period gem with beautiful gardens.
・Afternoon: Visit the Miho Museum, famed for its architecture and art collection, set in a picturesque mountain setting.
・Evening: Return to Hikone for a relaxing evening or try local dining options.

Day 3: Additional Exploration
・Optional Day Trips: If you have extra time, consider visiting the Koka Ninja House or Azuchi Castle Ruins for more of Shiga’s rich history.

Spring (March to May): Enjoy the sakura (cherry blossoms) blooms along Lake Biwa's shores and Hikone Castle, surrounded by a sea of pink.

Summer (June to August): Enjoy vibrant fireworks festivals such as the Lake Biwa Great Fireworks Festival (early August), and partake in lake activities and boat cruises.

Fall (September to November): Admire the breathtaking autumn foliage and attend the Fall Moon Festival at Ishiyama-dera Temple.

Winter (December to February): Relax in hot springs like Ogoto Onsen while relishing the sight of snow-dusted landscapes.

Spring: Light layers, comfortable walking shoes, and a compact umbrella for occasional showers. The bugs are out as well, so be prepared by bringing some insect repellent.

Summer: Light and breathable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Summer can be quite hot and humid, so wet wipes and portable fans can be a lifesaver. And don’t forget your swimsuit for a dip in Lake Biwa to cool off!

Fall: Warmer clothing, a cozy sweater or jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera. Fall has great weather and doesn’t get too cold.

Winter: Warmer clothing, like a winter jacket for nights or cold days, though it doesn’t get that cold in Shiga unless you are up in the mountains.

By Train: Shiga Prefecture is easily accessible by train from major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. The JR Tokaido Shinkansen offers quick connections from Tokyo, while the JR Tokaido Line provides direct access from Kyoto. Once in Shiga, local trains and buses make getting around convenient.

Shiga Prefecture is an ideal destination for families, offering a wide range of attractions and experiences suitable for all ages. The region’s efficient transportation system and general safety make it easy and stress-free to explore with children.

One of the standout family-friendly destinations is Ninja Village in Koka, where interactive programs engage visitors of all ages in the world of ninjas. For a mix of history and outdoor fun, Hikone Castle provides both historical charm and expansive grounds perfect for picnics and outdoor play. Similarly, Nagahama Castle and its surrounding park offer a space where children can freely run and explore.

For adventure seekers, Biwako Valley Ropeway is a must-visit. Families can enjoy thrilling outdoor activities like zip lining while taking in breathtaking views of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake. Throughout the year, Shiga hosts numerous family-friendly events and festivals. The Hikone Castle Festival, summer fireworks over Lake Biwa, and the stunning autumn foliage are just a few highlights that create lasting memories for both children and adults.

Other attractions in Shiga include the Yanmar Museum, where kids can try out construction machinery simulators, and Blumen Hugel, a family park with gardens and play areas. Rosa & Berry Tawada offers steam train rides and the chance to interact with farm animals, making it a perfect spot for a fun-filled day.

When choosing your hotel in Shiga, consider a location that matches your interests and provides convenient access to key attractions. Here are some recommended areas to explore.

Omi Beef: Delight in the succulent taste of Omi beef, one of the top three Wagyu brands in Japan, known for its high-quality marbling and tenderness. Experience its texture and flavor prepared in different ways, such as yakiniku (grilled meat) or shabu-shabu (hot pot).

Funazushi: Experience the distinctive flavor of Funazushi, a traditional fermented dish made from Lake Biwa's endemic funa, a fish of the carp family. This specialty offers a unique and acquired taste for adventurous food enthusiasts.

Biwako Sweets: Indulge in Biwako sweets, a variety of delectable treats inspired by the region's natural beauty. These sweets often incorporate ingredients like Lake Biwa's sweetfish and locally sourced fruits.

Shiga Saba: Try Shiga Saba, a type of mackerel known for its rich flavor. Whether grilled, marinated, or served as sushi, this fish is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.

Cash Convenience: While major cities accept credit cards, it's wise to carry some cash as many local establishments may not accept credit cards; especially in more rural areas or local markets.

Respectful Etiquette: Practice good manners and respect local customs, such as removing your shoes indoors and giving notice in advance if you wish to cancel a hotel or restaurant reservation. When visiting natural sites, please maintain a respectful attitude toward the environment. Follow designated paths and guidelines to help preserve the beauty of these landscapes. It is also good to note that trash cans are not commonly found in public places in Japan, so it’s recommended to bring a small plastic bag (easily obtained from any convenience store) along with you to store your trash.

Festivals and Events: Time your visit to coincide with local festivals for a more immersive cultural experience.