Guide to Western Shiga
Overview of Western Shiga
Western Shiga is home to Otsu and Takashima, where urban convenience meets the beauty of nature. Nestled between Lake Biwa and the mountains, visitors can enjoy peaceful travels here.
Otsu is just 9 minutes from Kyoto and offers the perfect combination of city convenience and lakeside relaxation.
Takashima, located about an hour away via the scenic Kosei Line, is surrounded by tranquil natural landscapes.
Take lakeside walks, visit historic temples and shrines, and enjoy the changing beauty of the seasons.
Trip Ideas in Western Shiga
Mount Hiei Peak to Sakamoto Valley Historic Day Trip
Takashima Waterside Heritage and Chikubushima Island Tour
Discover Historic Temples and Craft Ceramics on Lake Biwa
Discover Ancient Temples and Cross the Famous Seta Bridge
Reveal the Roots of Japan’s Spiritual & Cultural Heritage
Your Complete Guide to Finding Your Ideal Stay Near Lake Biwa
Biwako Valley, Kaizu’s Cherry Blossoms
Um passeio pelo Sunai no Sato: Mochitsuki, doces tradicionais, enfeites de ano novo e chá delicioso
Um passeio por fotos: Curtindo comida boa e fogos de artifício em Otsu, no “Biwako Dai Hanabi Taikai”
Biwaichi Bikes
A rental bicycle shop located right beside Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan.
Mii-dera Temple New Year’s Bells
The “Evening bell at Mii-dera Temple” is famous for being one of the Three Bells of Japan, and also as one of The Eight Views of Omi.
Omi Jingu Shrine
Omi Jingu Shrine is a registered Cultural Property, and a representative example of the Showa period (1926 – 1989) shrine construction known as Omi construction or Showa construction.
Biwako Valley
A ski slope that also lets you look out over Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan, from a mountain peak at 1,174m.
Makino Pic-land
Located next to the famous Metasequoia Avenue, this agricultural park offers seasonal fruit-picking experiences.
Seiga Style Samurai Kembu
Experience the traditional art of “kembu,” literally meaning “sword dance.
Ogoto Onsen Biwako Hanakaido
Biwako Hanakaido seeks to provide a detailed and comprehensive service, welcoming and providing for you in every possible way in order to create wonderful memories to be shared by you and those you love.
Satoyu Mukashibashi Yuzanso
A traditional Japanese ryokan where guests can enjoy spectacular views of Lake Biwa, rejuvenating hot springs, and seasonal kaiseki cuisine featuring the finest ingredients from Shiga.
Biwako Ryokusuitei
The concept behind Biwako Ryokusuitei was to make use of the blessings of nature in its design, and they now place their emphasis on making sure that you enjoy each and every relaxing moment while staying there.
Toyoko Inn Kyoto Biwako Otsu
The perfect hotel for those looking for clean, reassuring, low cost surroundings.
Biwako Hotel
The exterior of the Biwako Hotel is designed to evoke the ripples of Lake Biwa and the surrounding mountains.
Hotel Koo Otsu Hyakucho
The first “shopping street hotel” in Japan, created by renovating a number of townhouses located along both the shopping street in the center of Otsu City and the old Tokaido road.
Explore More Things to Do in Western Shiga
Wondering what to pack for your trip?
Check Shiga’s year-round weather and climate trends to help you prepare for your trip.
