Guide to Southern Shiga
Overview of Southern Shiga
Southern Shiga is home to Kusatsu, Koka, and Shigaraki, a region where history and traditional crafts thrive.
Kusatsu retains the charm of a historic post town on the old Tokaido Road, offering a glimpse into the travel culture of centuries past.
Koka is known for its ninja history and has a unique charm, where historic sites and nature come together in harmony.
Shigaraki is one of Japan’s most famous pottery towns. Visitors can tour active kilns, browse workshops, and stroll through charming streets to experience the local craftsmanship firsthand.
Trip Ideas in Southern Shiga
Unwind with Nature on a Freshwater Adventure Around Lake Biwa
Experience the Healing Nature of the Konan Sanzan Temple National Treasures
Anime in Real Life – Must-see spots in Shiga
Experience World Class Art and Master Shigaraki Pottery
Craft Shigaraki Pottery and Explore The Way of the Ninja
See a Shrine Visited by Fans From Around the World
The road to becoming a real Koka ninja!~Ninja Training~
Lake Biwa Museum & Kusatsu Headquarters
A Mindful Fragrance Journey at a Quiet Temple
8. Junmai Daiginjo Fujikura “Dokan” / Ohta Shuzo Brewery
Trail Adventure Ritto
Trail Adventure is a mountain bike activity facility that has something for everyone, from children to adults, beginners to experts alike.
Koka Ninjutsu Yashiki
This ninjutsu yashiki (“house of ninja techniques”) was built during the Edo period (1603 – 1868), and is the last true house of ninja remaining in Japan.
Okudachuzaemongama Shigaraki-togeimura
At this historic ceramics maker, experience making something yourself, watch a master at work or do a little shopping.
Yamada Farm
A working dairy farm that has opened its doors to the public under the concept of “letting people see the truth about milk.
Koka Ninja Village
In the wide grounds of this village in Koka, origin of the ninja, you can find a museum dedicated to ninja techniques, a house full of ninja traps and secret panels, “water spider” water crossing devices and a shuriken throwing star dojo.
Ohta Brewery Dokan-gura
The Ota family can trace their family tree back to one Dokan Ota, a samurai and Buddhist monk from the 15th century.
Kusatsu Estopia Hotel
A hotel with an extremely appealing location, only 3 minutes walk from JR Kusatsu Station, which itself is just 20 minutes from JR from Kyoto Station.
Kusatsu Dai-Ichi Hotel
The Kusatsu Dai-Ichi Hotel boasts 180 rooms, making it one of the largest business hotels in Shiga.
Ogawara Onsen Kamoshika Villa
Ogawara Onsen hot springs are still relatively new, only having started in 1995.
Shiono Onsen
Shiono Onsen, founded in 1898, is a restaurant and hotel with a hot spring.
Lake Biwa Marriott Hotel
The hotel also features a planetarium with digital surround technology.
Minakuchi Century Hotel
A city hotel located in an urban center but with a calm and relaxed atmosphere.
Explore More Things to Do in Southern Shiga
Wondering what to pack for your trip?
Check Shiga’s year-round weather and climate trends to help you prepare for your trip.
