11 Must-Visit Spots in Shiga: An Easy Trip from Kyoto

Shiga is located in the Kansai region of Japan. It is known for its natural beauty, including Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake, and the beautiful city of Otsu. Shiga is also rich in cultural heritage, such as the World Heritage site Hieizan Enryaku-ji and the historic town of Hikone. It also offers plenty of activities, including hiking, skiing, and hot springs, making it a popular destination for many travelers.

1. Hikone Castle

Hikone Castle is located in Hikone, Shiga Prefecture. It is remarkable for being one of only twelve original castles in Japan whose keeps have survived intact from the Edo period or earlier to the present day. Both its exterior and interior structures—the main keep, moat, walls, guardhouses, and gates—remain largely unchanged. Besides the castle itself, there are gardens and other points of interest. Part of the grounds has also been turned into a museum, with exhibits on the castle and Japan's feudal system.

2. Hachiman-bori Canal (Omihachiman)

Hachiman-bori Canal in Omihachiman, Shiga, is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a relaxing and educational place to visit. Fans of Japanese films may recognize its scenery, as several movies have been filmed here thanks to the town's charm. Its beauty and character make many visitors want to return.

3. Shirahige Shrine

Shirahige Shrine sits on the shore of Lake Biwa and is one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines. It is famous for its floating torii gate, a striking red wooden structure built in the 17th century to protect the shrine from flooding. The only way to reach the torii gate is by boat; a traditional Japanese boat ride to the gate takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Once there, you can walk around the gate and take in beautiful lake views surrounded by mountain scenery, especially striking during cherry blossom season and the season of autumn leaves.

4. Metasequoia Namiki Avenue

Metasequoia Namiki Avenue is a beautiful, historic road in Shiga Prefecture. It is lined with about 500 metasequoia (dawn redwood) trees, which give the avenue its name. The trees were planted in 1981 and have grown to about 18 meters tall. The 2.4-kilometer avenue is a popular spot for fresh greenery in spring and colorful foliage in autumn.

5. Biwako Terrace

Biwako Terrace is a popular observation terrace at the summit of Biwako Valley in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, reached by ropeway. Its highlight is the sweeping view of Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake, making it a favorite spot for visitors. There are many shops and restaurants to browse, along with various activities such as boat cruises on Lake Biwa, hiking, and cycling with scenic views. There is also a playground and a spacious lawn ideal for picnics, making this a convenient and relaxing spot for visitors.

6. Miho Museum

Miho Museum is located deep in the wooded hills west of Koka, Shiga Prefecture, not far from Kyoto. The first thing that catches the eye is the building's architecture, designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei. The museum was founded by Mihoko Koyama, a wealthy Japanese businesswoman.

7. Enryaku-ji Temple

Enryaku-ji Temple (延暦寺) is located in the eastern range of Mount Hiei, on the border between Kyoto and Shiga Prefectures. It is one of the most important temples for Tendai Buddhism, serving as the sect's center, and is also a significant site in Japanese history. The temple was founded around 788 by Saicho, the monk who brought Tendai Buddhism from China to Japan. Many famous monks studied here, including the founders of the Jodo, Zen, and Nichiren sects.

8. Shigaraki Pottery Town

Shigaraki Pottery Town, in Shiga Prefecture, is known for its distinctive pottery and long ceramic history. Since the 8th century, Shigaraki ware has been made in a simple, natural style, using clay found only in this area, which gives the pottery its unique character.

9. Koka Ninja Village

Koka Ninja Village is located in Koka, Shiga Prefecture. It is a popular attraction for those looking to get away from the big city. The village is set in a remote area, with old houses tucked into the forest. One building hosts ninja demonstrations, showing hidden traps and secret devices. There is plenty more to see inside the village, including a shuriken-throwing range, a pond for practicing walking on water, and a small museum displaying tools once used by Koka ninja. Anyone fascinated by the mystery of ninja will love this place.

10. Mii-dera Temple

Mii-dera Temple, also known as Onjoji Temple, is one of the oldest and most important temples in Shiga Prefecture. Its scenery is so beautiful that it has been depicted by famous artists as one of the Omi Hakkei, the eight famous views of Omi, since the Edo period. The name Mii-dera means "temple of three sacred wells," referring to the legend that water from the wells was used for the first baths of three newborn emperors.

11. Ogoto Onsen

Ogoto Onsen is a hot spring resort area in Otsu, Japan. It is well known among travelers for its beautiful scenery and historic hot springs. The onsen area sits on the shore of Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake.