Guide to Eastern Shiga
Overview of Eastern Shiga
Eastern Shiga is home to Hikone, Higashi-omi, and Omi-Hachiman, where castles and traditional culture thrive.
Hikone City is a castle town that retains its historic charm, allowing visitors to experience local traditions through its streetscape and cultural sites.
Higashi-omi offers a mix of historic temples, traditional industries, and beautiful rural landscapes, providing a glimpse into authentic Shiga life.
Omi-Hachiman is famous for its historic canals, merchant houses, and traditional crafts, a town known for its cultural heritage and timeless atmosphere.
Trip Ideas in Eastern Shiga
Explore the Core Values of Japan Through the Life and Legacy of the “Omi Merchants”
Visit the Azuchi Castle Ruins and Historic Hachiman Canal
Historic Hikone Castle Walk and Yumekyobashi Shopping
Revisit Shiga’s Past and Taste Seasonal Fruit in Yasu
Cycle Through Time Along Historical Roads & Canals
The Mystery of the Vanished Castle… and Shopping!
The Ultimate Guide to the Biwaichi Cycling Route in Shiga, Japan
9. Kyokujitsu “Kirara” / Fujii Honke Sake Brewery
Meet to Hear the Sound of Insects in Genkyu-en
In the illuminated Genkyu-en, listen to the sound of insects and enjoy the gentle passage of time in a manner impossible in any city.
Hachimanyama Ropeway
This ropeway takes around four minutes to transport you from the base of the mountain to the top, from where you can enjoy a sweeping panorama that includes Lake Biwa, Lake Nishinoko and the old town below, all wreathed in the glory of the current season.
Original Boat Tour
The Omi-Hachiman boat tour allows you to enjoy a different, natural world while riding a boat under the skillful control of a traditional boast master.
Roadside Station Aguri Park Ryuo
The experience and exchange style agricultural park “Aguri Park Ryuo” is a facility where you can enjoy everything the outdoors has to offer, through “looking, picking and eating.
Ashifuse-no-some
A horse racing ceremony held at a shrine with a long connection to horses.
Ichishirogama
Ichishirogama displays and retails koto-yaki pieces, slightly blue ceramics decorated with delicate images, as well as offering a pottery classroom.
Machiya Inn
Omihachiman is a quiet place of history and tradition, located in the lake-land of Shiga.
Omi-Hino Rural Life Experiences
Proactively accepts educational tours, study tours and other groups of visitors.
Hikone Castle Resort & Spa
Provides a full range of souvenirs from Shiga, including confections, traditional art and local sake!
Hotel New Omi
Just one minute on foot from JR Omi-Hachiman Station, this hotel is conveniently located for both business and sightseeing.
Ryotei Ryokan Yasui
A long standing dining hotel with history going back to 1869.
Guesthouse Mio
Guesthouse Mio is a traditional Japanese townhouse that was renovated in 2018.
Explore More Things to Do in Eastern Shiga
Wondering what to pack for your trip?
Check Shiga’s year-round weather and climate trends to help you prepare for your trip.
