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
Reveal the Roots of Japan’s Spiritual & Cultural Heritage
Ancient Trails and Modern Cruises through Scenic Otsu
Mount Hiei Peak to Sakamoto Valley Historic Day Trip
Unwind with Nature on a Freshwater Adventure Around Lake Biwa
Tout ce que vous avez besoin de savoir sur la randonnée au mont Hiei (Hieizan)
Passeio de barco (Yakatabune Shiki) pelo Lago Biwa, o maior do Japão!
Biwaichi Trip (Cycling around Lake Biwa) – Day 2
Takashima Village
In Katsuno, a charming castle town in Takashima City, historic buildings can still be seen today.
Enryakuji Temple Ceremony to Exorcise Evil & New Year’s Bells
The New Year’s Bells and Ceremony to Exorcise Evil are annual traditions for New Year’s Eve at Hieizan.
Shirahamaso
Allows groups to experience a variety of activities, including making things and outdoor experiences such as water sports on Lake Biwa.
Biwako Hakodateyama
From the parking area at the base, it takes about 8 minutes by gondola to reach the summit at an elevation of approximately 630 meters, where a spacious and open environment awaits.
Omi Jingu Shrine Mounted Archery Performance
A display of yabusame (mounted archery) by the Takeda School from the Japanese Traditional Archery on Horseback Association.
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.
Auberge Meson
The forest hideaway of Auberge only accepts five bookings per day, and affords you a luxurious moment of relaxation during which you simply have to do nothing at all.
Toyoko Inn Kyoto Biwako Otsu
The perfect hotel for those looking for clean, reassuring, low cost surroundings.
Satoyu Mukashibashi Yuzanso
A traditional Japanese ryokan where guests can enjoy spectacular views of Lake Biwa, rejuvenating hot springs, and seasonal kaiseki cuisine featuring the finest ingredients from Shiga.
Shirahamaso
Allows groups to experience a variety of activities, including making things and outdoor experiences such as water sports on Lake Biwa.
Biwako Hotel
The exterior of the Biwako Hotel is designed to evoke the ripples of Lake Biwa and the surrounding mountains.
Ayaha Lakeside Hotel
The Ayaha Lakeside Hotel is a Japanese-style hotel right on the shores of Lake Biwa.
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.
