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Okishima Island

"Okishima," floating in Lake Biwa, is a very rare inhabited island globally because people live on an island in a freshwater lake. Reached by boat, the island has no cars, and three-wheeled bicycles are the main transportation, preserving a quiet and peaceful life where time seems to have stopped. Houses along the shore, narrow alleys, and cats seen everywhere are the very landscape of a good old Japanese fishing village. In recent years, its unique living culture and beautiful scenery have drawn attention from overseas travelers as Shiga's premier healing spot where you can leave the hustle and bustle and...

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Shiga

Azuchi Castle Ruins

"Azuchi Castle Ruins" in Omihachiman City is the site of an unprecedentedly gorgeous castle built by Oda Nobunaga, the champion of the Sengoku period. Although the buildings no longer remain, the massive stone walls and foundation stones vividly convey Nobunaga's ambition and the high level of technology of the time. Climbing the straight, wide stone steps called Ote-michi allows you to re-experience the authority felt by samurai back then, and from the high ruins, you can enjoy the beautiful view of Lake Biwa that Nobunaga loved. It is a true holy site for history lovers wanting to imagine invisible historical...

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Shiga

La Collina Omihachiman

"La Collina Omihachiman," located in Omihachiman City, is a theme park where sweets and nature merge, developed by the Taneya Group, a long-established confectionery group. The main shop "Kusa-yane" (Grass Roof), designed by architect Terunobu Fujimori with a roof entirely covered in grass, attracts worldwide attention for its creative design that feels like wandering into a fantasy world. Within the vast grounds, you can watch the famous Baumkuchen being made or enjoy freshly prepared sweets. This place, where traditional Japanese agriculture, modern architecture, and the finest food resonate, is a new landmark in Shiga that can be enjoyed by children...

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Shiga

Metasequoia Avenue

"Metasequoia Avenue" in Takashima City is one of Shiga's most spectacular scenic roads, featuring approximately 500 Metasequoia trees lined up orderly for about 2.4 km. The symmetrical beauty of the straight road and the conical trees gives an impression as if visiting a movie scene or a foreign land. Showing dramatic changes throughout the year—fresh green in spring, deep green in summer, brick-red foliage in autumn, and snow in winter—this place is a photo spot longed for by SNS users and photographers worldwide. Whether driving or walking to feel the sunlight filtering through leaves, it will be a special experience...

Shiga
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Shiga

Mt. Ibuki

Soaring 1,377 meters on the border of Shiga and Gifu, "Mt. Ibuki" is one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains. A driveway allows access to near the summit, making it attractive for beginners to easily enjoy views above the clouds. Known as a treasure trove of medicinal herbs since ancient times, the "Sky Flower Garden" with colorful alpine flora spreads in summer. The 360-degree panorama overlooking Lake Biwa and the Northern Alps overwhelms overseas climbing fans. It is a place where you can simultaneously experience the richness of Japanese nature and the history of long-standing mountain worship.

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Shiga

Seiryu-ji Tokugen-in

"Tokugen-in Temple" in Maibara City is the family temple of the Kyogoku clan, powerful daimyo of northern Omi, where a stunning garden and historical silence are preserved. The beauty of the pond-stroll garden with a three-storied pagoda in the background is breathtaking, with seasonal colors vividly adorning the historic architecture. The sight of large Hokyo-into towers, the graves of generations of the Kyogoku family, silently conveys the dignity of Sengoku warlords and the weight of history. It's a sanctuary that authentic-minded travelers wishing to avoid overcrowded spots and quietly immerse themselves in traditional Japanese aesthetics and deep spirituality must visit.

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Maibara City

Maibara City, in northeastern Shiga, has a Shinkansen stop and is a key transportation hub connecting Kansai, Nagoya, and Hokoku. It features a coexistence of rich nature, like "Mt. Ibuki" (one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains) and Samegai (where rare "Baikamo" flowers bloom in clear streams), and the atmosphere of historic post towns. Because it has flourished as a transportation base since ancient times, a culture of healing travelers is rooted here, and you can feel simple but warm hospitality. It's the best gateway for travelers wanting to efficiently tour Japan's local charms, from outdoor enthusiasts to history lovers.

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Nagahama Castle

"Nagahama Castle," known as the success castle first built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, is a beautiful fortress standing by Lake Biwa. It is currently a history museum where you can deeply learn the history of Hideyoshi and Nagahama. From the top-floor observatory, you can overlook Lake Biwa and the Nagahama cityscape, enjoying the grand panorama that Sengoku warlords once saw. The surroundings are developed as "Ho Park," selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots; in spring, many tourists from all over the world visit this popular photo spot seeking the quintessentially Japanese spectacular view of the castle and...

Shiga
Sightseeing
Spring

Shiga

Lake Yogo

"Lake Yogo" in Nagahama City is a quiet lake north of Lake Biwa, also called the "Mirror Lake" because its calm surface reflects the surrounding mountains like a mirror. It's a mystical place with legends of a celestial maiden's robe, and because it hasn't been flashily commercialized, you can taste silence that could be called Japan's original landscape. With smelt fishing in winter and rapeseed and cherry blossoms in spring, its mystical beauty is highly rated by photographers and nature-loving international travelers. It is a soul-healing retreat spot where you can cycle around the lake while listening to the sound...

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Mt. Shizugatake

"Shizugatake," located on the border of Nagahama and Kinomoto, is a famous historical spot as the stage of the "Battle of Shizugatake" where Hashiba Hideyoshi and Shibata Katsuie fought for supremacy. You can easily climb to the summit by lift, and the view from there is one of the best panoramic points in Shiga, overlooking both "Lake Biwa" and the mystical "Lake Yogo" simultaneously. You can enjoy the contrast of the blue lakes and green mountains while thinking of the heroic history of Sengoku warlords. It's the best sightseeing spot for travelers wanting both history and spectacular views with a...

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Kanzan-ji Temple

"Kanzan-ji Temple," nestled deep in the mountains of Nagahama City, is a hidden gem associated with the Heian noble Sugawara no Michizane. The approach to the main hall features massive, ancient "Zelkova" trees said to have been planted by Michizane himself, enveloping visitors in overwhelming vitality and sacred air. The silence found here precisely because it is not commercialized creates an illusion of slipping back hundreds of years with the deep green forest, old stone steps, and quietly standing vermilion gate. It is a sanctuary filled with Shiga's deep charm for authentic-minded travelers wishing to face nature and history quietly.

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Nagahama City

Nagahama City, located in northeastern Lake Biwa, is a vibrant historical tourist city developed as a castle town where Hashiba (Toyotomi) Hideyoshi first held a castle. "Kurokabe Square," a shopping area utilizing Edo-period townhouses, offers glass crafts and local gourmet food, making its modern-retro stroll extremely popular with international travelers. It's also a base for "Chikubushima Cruises" across Japan's largest lake, offering a balance of history, nature, and experience. Throughout the year, you can feel the brilliance of traditional Japanese culture and the passion of people, such as the "Bonbai Exhibition" in winter and the gorgeous "Nagahama Hikiyama Festival" in...

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Hyakusai-ji Temple

"Hyakusai-ji Temple" in Higashiomi City is the oldest of the Koto Sanzan, founded by Prince Shotoku with over 1,400 years of history. Once praised as "Paradise on Earth," it offers a spectacular panorama overlooking Mt. Hiei from its elevated grounds. The dynamic "Tenka Enbo Garden" with massive rocks and the heavy stone walls telling of its long history evoke the Sengoku period when warrior monks roamed. With a background showing deep ties with Baekje (ancient Korea), it's a place where you can immerse yourself in deep Japanese history while tracing the footsteps of cultural exchange in East Asia.

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Kongorin-ji Temple

"Kongorin-ji Temple" in Aisho Town is one of the Koto Sanzan and a historic temple opened by Gyoki in the Nara period. The National Treasure main hall houses many Buddhist statues designated as Important Cultural Properties, making it a treasure trove of Japanese Buddhist art. On both sides of the approach, thousands of "Sentai Jizo" (thousand statues) are lined up with colorful windmills and bibs, creating a unique and mystical sight that leaves a strong impression on overseas tourists. The autumn colors are especially vivid, referred to as "Blood-dyed Maples," which along with the garden's beauty, lets you experience the...

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Shiga

Saimyo-ji Temple

"Saimyo-ji Temple" in Kora Town is an ancient temple of the Tendai sect counted as one of the Koto Sanzan (Three Mountains East of the Lake). The main hall and three-storied pagoda built during the Kamakura period are known as "nail-less" architecture, built without using a single nail, and both are designated as National Treasures. Within the precincts, there is a rare cherry tree called "Fudan-zakura" that blooms from autumn to spring, allowing visitors to encounter a spectacular view of both autumn leaves and cherry blossoms simultaneously—a rarity even in Japan. The space where mossy gardens and heavy wooden architecture...

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Mikaku-no-Yado Futabasō

Located on the shores of Lake Biwa in Hikone City, "Futabasō" is an inn boasting pride in its food, where you can fully enjoy homey hospitality and seasonal flavors of Shiga. Traditional kaiseki cuisine incorporating plenty of Lake Biwa's blessings and the signature Omi Beef sukiyaki or steak is highly rated by international travelers as "Japanese home-like warmth and authentic taste." Time spent in a relaxing Japanese-style room while gazing at Lake Biwa outside the window lets you feel the essence of Japanese ryokan culture. With good access to Hikone Castle, it's a hidden gem of a lodging where you...

Shiga
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Sushi Kappo Ginsui

Standing along the shores of Lake Biwa in Otsu City, "Ginsui" is a renowned establishment where you can savor exquisite Japanese cuisine merging rich local Shiga ingredients with traditional craftsmanship. Especially, you can enjoy "Lake Fish Cuisine" using rare fish unique to Lake Biwa, world-proud Omi Beef from Shiga, and carefully selected fresh seafood, all presented with beautiful plating. The calm Japanese space offers views of the ever-changing Lake Biwa scenery, directing the dining time even more luxuriously. For gourmets wanting to experience Japan's delicate spirit of "Omotenashi" (hospitality) and the depth of food unique to the water capital Shiga,...

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Food
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Shiga

Ishiyama-dera Temple

"Ishiyama-dera Temple" in Otsu City is a famous temple known as the place where Murasaki Shikibu, a female writer of the Heian period, conceived the world's oldest long novel, "The Tale of Genji." The main hall and tahoto tower, built on a massive natural treasure Wollastonite rock, are designated as National Treasures, radiating mystical beauty where the bedrock and architecture merge. It's also famous as a "Temple of Flowers" where seasonal blossoms bloom, with the beauty of plums, cherries, and autumn leaves being exceptional. In the quiet environment overlooking the clear streams of the Seta River, it's a must-see for...

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Shiga

Mt. Hiei

Located on the border of Shiga and Kyoto, "Mt. Hiei" is a sacred mountain of 848 meters that has been revered since ancient times as a sanctuary of Japanese Buddhism. The entire mountain is within the precincts of the World Heritage site "Enryakuji Temple," with solemn halls scattered within deep virgin forests. Using cable cars or ropeways, you can enjoy an overwhelming panoramic view of both Lake Biwa and Kyoto City, making it a place truly worthy of being called a paradise in the sky. With mystical natural energy felt through the cherry blossoms in spring, cool summer breezes, autumn...

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Shiga

Mitsui Outlet Park

Located in Ryuo Town, "Mitsui Outlet Park Shiga Ryuo" is an authentic outlet mall boasting one of the largest scales in the Kinki region. With a wide range of stores from global luxury brands to popular Japanese select shops and sports brands, and extensive tax-free support, it's ideal for international travelers seeking shopping. Furthermore, the facility houses many restaurants where you can enjoy Shiga specialties and Omi Beef, satisfying not just shopping but Shiga's "food" as well. With direct buses from Kyoto, it's a spot where you can enjoy shopping at great value in a space surrounded by rich nature...

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Tarobogu Shrine

"Tarobogu (Aga Shrine)," enshrined on Mt. Akagami in Higashiomi City, is a power spot where professional athletes and business leaders from all over Japan come to pray as a deity of victory and happiness. The approach passing between the massive "Wedded Rocks" soaring midway up the mountain is overwhelming, with a legend that liars will be crushed if they pass through. From the high elevation of the precincts, you can overlook the peaceful rural scenery of the Omi Basin, experiencing a sacred atmosphere like a shrine floating in the sky. The dynamic landscape where natural giant rocks and faith become...

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Koka City

Located in southeastern Shiga, Koka City is the world-famous home of the "Koka Ninja" and a cultural city renowned as the production center of "Shigaraki-yaki," one of Japan's six ancient kilns. It's packed with unique Japanese charms found nowhere else, such as trick experiences at authentic ninja houses and tanuki figurines overflowing in the town. Surrounded by deep mountains, the terrain is also suitable for tea cultivation, allowing visitors to enjoy high-quality products like "Asamiya Tea." For history fans, craft enthusiasts, and overseas fans interested in ninjas through anime and movies, it is an exciting area to touch Japan's "authentic...

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Eigen-ji Temple

"Eigen-ji Temple" in Higashiomi City is the head temple of the Eigen-ji branch of the Rinzai sect, founded in 1361. It is especially renowned as a spot for autumn foliage, and the sight of burning red maples coloring the tranquil precincts is a spectacular view symbolizing autumn in Japan. The mountain gate and Buddha hall, standing along the clear streams of the Echi River, harmonize with the deep mountains and let you feel the dignified spirit of Zen. Trying zazen (meditation) in the precincts or enjoying the famous "Eigen-ji Konnyaku" is also a highlight of the trip. For travelers wanting...

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Shigaraki Tanuki Village

Located in Shigaraki, Koka City, "Tanuki Village" is Japan's largest display and sales spot for Shigaraki-yaki tanuki (raccoon dog) figurines. The sight of thousands of tanuki in various sizes is breathtaking, and their humorous expressions are extremely popular as photo spots for international travelers. The facility offers extensive "pottery experiences" and "painting experiences" where you can actually touch the clay, allowing you to learn about traditional Japanese crafts while having fun. With a tour of climbing kilns and a restaurant serving local ingredients, it's an entertainment facility where you can enjoy the village of Japanese crafts with all five senses,...

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