Trip Ideas

Memorable Photo Spots Course

Memorable Photo Spots Course

Day 1

Spot No. 1 JR Otsukyo Station

  • 15 min on foot

Spot No. 2 Omi Jingu Shrine

Omi Jingu Shrine is a registered Cultural Property, and a representative example of the Showa period (1926 – 1989) shrine construction known as Omi construction or Showa construction. Women can rent kimono to wear. (Reception from 9:30 – 15:30, not available on Mondays other than holidays). Omi Jingu Shrine is also a location featured in the anime “Chihayafuru.”
【Trip Report】

Otsu trip

Otsu trip part2

Omi Jingu Shrine
  • 23 min on foot

Spot No. 3 Biwako Otsukan

The Biwako Otsukan was built in 1934 as the first international tourism hotel in the prefecture, with the intention of bringing in more tourists from overseas. Set in wide grounds covering 5,900㎡, which include English gardens that allow a range of flowers to be enjoyed across the four seasons. Experience the refreshing breeze from across the lake and the gentle fragrance of flowers across your entire body while taking a lovely stroll through these gardens.
【Trip Report】

Otsu trip

Otsu trip part2

Biwako Otsukan
  • 17 min on foot

Spot No. 4 JR Otsukyo Station

  • 25 min by train

Spot No. 5 JR Shiga Station

  • 10 min by bus

Spot No. 6 Biwako Valley

A ski slope that also lets you look out over Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan, from a mountain peak at 1,174m.

From the peak the stunning panorama of Lake Biwa spreads away from north to south, and many people visit every winter in order to enjoy a variety of winter sports. The main slope allows you to take in the glory of Lake Biwa while you ski, and there’s also a course that cuts through the forest; you’ll find something for everyone to enjoy, from beginners to experts.

【Trip Report】

Biwako Valley, Kaizu’s Cherry Blossoms

Biwako Valley
  • 10 min by bus

Spot No. 7 JR Shiga Station

  • 14 min by train

Spot No. 8 JR Omitakashima Station

  • 12 min by bus

Spot No. 9 Shirahige-jinja Shrine

Shirahige-jinja Shrine was founded about 2,000 years ago and is one of the oldest shrines in Shiga Prefecture. It is also designated as one of the constituent cultural properties of Japan Heritage. Known as a deity of longevity and good health, the shrine is also revered as a “guiding god” who brings blessings for matchmaking, safe childbirth, good fortune, academic success, traffic safety, and maritime safety—guiding all aspects of human life and endeavors. Its iconic vermilion torii gate appears to float on Lake Biwa and is a distinctive symbol of the shrine.

(Notice) Crossing the national highway in front of Shirahige-jinja Shrine is extremely dangerous and is strictly prohibited. When photographing the torii gate in the lake, please use the designated observation platform, “Omi Shirahige-dai.”

Trip Reports :

Takashima Trip

Shirahige-jinja Shrine
  • 12 min by bus

Spot No. 10 JR Omitakashima Station

Other Western Shiga Trip Ideas

Takashima Waterside Heritage and Chikubushima Island Tour

1-Day Trip
Western SHIGA
#History & Culture

Discover Ancient Temples and Cross the Famous Seta Bridge

1-Day Trip
Western SHIGA
#History & Culture

Ancient Trails and Modern Cruises through Scenic Otsu

1-Day Trip
Western SHIGA
#History & Culture / #Nature & Parks

日本文化體驗

1-Day Trip
Western SHIGA
#History & Culture / #Nature & Parks

Enjoy Shopping with Scenic Views of Lake Biwa

1-Day Trip
Western SHIGA Southern SHIGA
#Nature & Parks / #Shopping

Reveal the Roots of Japan’s Spiritual & Cultural Heritage

3-Day Trip
Western SHIGA Northern SHIGA Eastern SHIGA
#History & Culture / #Stay / #Food & Drink
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