Hatsumode is the first visit made to a shrine or temple at the start of the year, to pray for happiness in the year ahead.
At the start of a brand new year, why not make your traditional Hatsumode (first shrine visit) in Shiga? Here’s an introduction to some of our top picks to visit!

◆Taga Taisha Shrine
A shrine that has attracted worshippers since ancient times due to its connections to the god of long life, relationships and warding off disaster. The premiere shrine in Shiga, the god Izanagi and goddess Izanami, who were the parents of Amaterasu herself, are enshrined here.
Charge: Entry to the grounds is free (Okushoin Garden 300yen)
http://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/234

◆Hieizan Enryakuji Temple
A temple globally renowned for its 1200 years of history and tradition, in 1994 Enryakuji became a registered UNESCO World Heritage site. From New Year’s Eve to New Year’s Day both the Okuhiei and Hieizan Driveways remain open all night, allowing you to drive through from the city and see the first sunrise of the New Year from Hieizan.
One charge for admittance to the East Tower, West Tower and Yokawa: Adult 700yen, junior and high school student 500yen, elementary school student 300yen
http://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/112

◆Tsukubusuma-jinja Shrine (Chikubushima-jinja Shrine)
A shrine located on the mysterious Chikubushima Island, and known as one of the three major shrines in Japan enshrining Benzaiten. It is visited not only on the first day of the New Year but also throughout the year by many worshippers, and is popular as a spiritual power spot.
Charge: Free (Island entry charge: Adult 400yen, child 300yen)
http://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/285

◆Shirahige-jinja Shrine
Visits for Hatsumode can be performed at any time. The shrine shop (selling protective amulets and other items) is open from 0:00 – 17:00 on Jan 1, and 8:00 – 17:00 on Jan 2 – 5.
https://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/306

◆Omi Jingu Shrine
Protective amulets and other items are available from 0:00 until around 18:00 on Jan 1 and 9:00 – 17:00 from Jan 2 onward, with the New Year’s lottery held between Jan 1 – 3 and sweet sake on offer until Jan 5.
https://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/78

◆Tachiki-kannon Temple
Reception is open all day Dec 31, right up until 22:00 on Jan 1. On Jan 2 it is open 6:00 – 21:00, and then 6:00 – 20:00 on Jan 3.
https://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/66

This article is based on past information.