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
Anime in Real Life – Must-see spots in Shiga
Enjoy Shopping with Scenic Views of Lake Biwa
Takashima Waterside Heritage and Chikubushima Island Tour
Ancient Trails and Modern Cruises through Scenic Otsu
A trip to Sunai no Sato: Mochitsuki, traditional sweets, New Year’s decoration and delicious tea
The Ultimate Guide to the Biwaichi Cycling Route in Shiga, Japan
Biwaichi Trip (Cycling around Lake Biwa) – Day 3
Hatsumoude in Chikubujima Island
Kanou Shoujuan Sunai no Sato
Experience making Japanese confections for yourself while observing a master at work, and then eat your handiwork with some tea after you are finished.
Boat Race Biwako
Boat Race Biwako is located on the banks of Lake Biwa, and boasts awe-inspiring scenery even when compared to the other 23 boat race locations around Japan.
Seta Golf Course
A 54 hole course that spreads across a hilly region overlooking Lake Biwa and Mt. Hieizan.
Omimaiko Beach
Omimaiko is an exceptionally beautiful region, with groves of green pines along the lakeshore and approximately 4km of white sand beach.
Roadside Station Toju-no-sato Adogawa
Conveniently located along National Route 161, which runs north and south along the western shore of Lake Biwa, this roadside station is an excellent stop for shopping and dining in Takashima City.
Lake Biwa Marine Sports Auto Campground
The Lake Biwa Marine Sports Auto Campground offers swimming & camping activities amid the clear waters of Lake Biwa.
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.
Ogoto Onsen
In the south of Ogoto Onsen there is a Tendai temple called Hokoji Temple.
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.
Ayaha Lakeside Hotel
The Ayaha Lakeside Hotel is a Japanese-style hotel right on the shores of Lake Biwa.
Shirahamaso
Allows groups to experience a variety of activities, including making things and outdoor experiences such as water sports on Lake Biwa.
Racine home HARIE
Racine Home HARIE provides travelers with our hotel, restaurant, Mayko Shop and also the one day hot spring facility.
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.
