The large, vermilion‐lacquered Torii gate in the middle of Lake Biwa is like the symbol of Shirahige-jinja Shrine, and has been a draw for visitors for many years.

Humans have lived alongside waterways since ancient times, and you can still feel the roots of that lifestyle here, from Lake Biwa to the rivers and inner lakes, stone walls and common wells along the shoreline, the fishing industry and the vicinity of the sand dunes.

All across these areas you can see underground water from the Adogawa River and the Hira mountains bubbling up as fresh springs.

The ruins of Omizo-jo Castle and the old castle town were reorganized by the powerful Wakebe clan, and the old waterworks and water channels that draw water from mountains and wells are still being used by residents today.