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.

Shirahige-jinja Shrine was founded 1900 years ago, boasting the longest history for a shrine Omi.

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.

The Kutsuki Mountain Stream Fish Center is a mountain stream fishing center that also includes a barbeque house and restaurant serving local dishes.

The vicinity of Otomegaike was known as the “Katori no Umi” during the seventh century Manyo period, and formed an inlet into Lake Biwa at the foot of the mountains.