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
Takashima Waterside Heritage and Chikubushima Island Tour
Anime in Real Life – Must-see spots in Shiga
Tour Historic Temples and Ride the Sakamoto Cable Car
Discover Ancient Temples and Cross the Famous Seta Bridge
Biwaichi Trip (Cycling around Lake Biwa) – Day 2
Rokasensuiso – inside the urban jungle in Otsu city
Passeio de barco (Yakatabune Shiki) pelo Lago Biwa, o maior do Japão!
Omatsuzaki
Omatsuzaki is a spot of great beauty, and was even selected as one of the Eight Views of Lake Biwa, “Cool Breeze – Omatsuzaki White Beach.
Otsu & Takashima Local Farmhouse Visit & Lunch Cooking
Spend quality time with your family, friends or a special person at the tranquil lakeside which is a hidden gem away from all the main toursits hot spots of Japan.
Omi Shirahama Beach
This beach with beautiful, endless white sands and green trees is also alive with people enjoying playing in the water, camping, barbeque and marine sports.
Chikubushima Cruise (Biwako Kisen)
A route from either Nagahama Port or Imazu Port to Chikubushima.
Hakodateyama Ski Resort
Hakodateyama Ski Resort is well known across the entire Kansai region, located 690m above sea level in a mountainous region to the northwest of JR Omi-Imazu Station.
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.
Ogoto Onsen
In the south of Ogoto Onsen there is a Tendai temple called Hokoji Temple.
Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel
The shop offers a complete lineup of goods, including souvenirs from Shiga, drinks and snacks, tourism magazines and useful travel items.
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.
Dantokan Kikunoya
Dantokan Kikunoya features a warm atmosphere, like coming home, and is also the only hotel in the Ogoto Onsen region that has rooms which allow pets to stay alongside their owners.
Shirahamaso
Allows groups to experience a variety of activities, including making things and outdoor experiences such as water sports on Lake Biwa.
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.
