Shiga is Japan’s best-kept secret. At its heart lies Lake Biwa — Japan’s largest lake and one of the world’s oldest — surrounded by ancient temples, feudal castles, and scenic cycling routes. Yet Shiga receives only a fraction of the visitors that neighboring Kyoto attracts.
Top Attractions
1. Lake Biwa
Lake Biwa is enormous — so large it has its own weather systems and unique wildlife. Cycling the lake’s perimeter (around 240km) is a beloved Japanese cycling pilgrimage. Sunset views across the water to the Hira Mountains are unforgettable.
2. Hikone Castle
One of Japan’s finest surviving original castles, Hikone sits picturesquely above the lake. The castle’s mascot Hikonyan (a white cat in samurai armor) is one of Japan’s most beloved yuru-kyara characters.
3. Enryakuji Temple
Perched on Mt. Hiei above the lake, Enryakuji was founded in 788 and became one of the most powerful institutions in Japanese history. Its forest of ancient temples, pagodas, and moss-covered stone lanterns is deeply atmospheric.
Food & Drink
Shiga’s Omi Beef is Japan’s oldest brand of wagyu, predating even Kobe beef. Funazushi — fermented crucian carp from Lake Biwa — is one of Japan’s oldest fermented foods (an ancestor of modern sushi). Local freshwater fish dishes are a regional specialty.
Getting There
From Kyoto, trains reach Otsu (Shiga’s capital) in just 10 minutes. Hikone is about 45 minutes from Kyoto by Shinkansen.
