Shiga Prefecture is located in the central part of Japan, featuring beautiful natural landscapes centered around Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan. Throughout the seasons, visitors can enjoy diverse scenic views. The prefecture boasts historical landmarks such as Hikone Castle and Enryaku-ji on Mt. Hiei, attracting numerous tourists. Shiga is renowned for its traditional crafts and rich local cuisine, including delicacies like Omi beef and Omi rice. With abundant sightseeing spots and relaxing hot spring resorts, Shiga provides a tranquil retreat for visitors.
１．Hikone Castle
Hikone Castle, a historic Japanese fortress, boasts beautiful turrets and gardens, captivating foreigners. Also known as “Golden Turtle Castle,” its tower is a designated national treasure. Constructed by Ii Naokatsu’s son, Naotsugu, in 1604, with the assistance of 7 lords and 12 daimyos, it took 20 years to complete. A hilltop castle like Himeji, Inuyama, Matsumoto, and Matsue, it is recognized as a national treasure.
２．Lake Biwa
Occupying about one-sixth of the prefecture, Lake Biwa is Japan’s largest lake. Visitors can enjoy boat cruises, numerous swimming spots along the shore, and fishing activities.
３．Enryaku-ji on Mt. Hiei
A historic temple, Enryaku-ji attracts foreigners with its scenic mountain temple and rich cultural history. Founded by Saicho, it serves as the main temple of the Tendai sect. Elevated at 848m, it’s considered the birthplace of Japanese Buddhism. Its vast area includes important structures like the Konpon Chu-do (a national treasure) and the Daito Pagoda, part of the “East Tower.”
４．Ishiyama-dera
Affiliated with the Tendai sect, Ishiyama-dera is the 13th pilgrimage site of the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage. Its name comes from being built on a massive volcanic rock (natural monument).
５．Hakusan Shrine (Konan City)
Serving as the guardian shrine for Chosho-ji Temple, Hakusan Shrine features a magnificent Muromachi-style main hall (Important Cultural Property) on the south side. It preserves wooden plaques of the Thirty-Six Immortal Poets.
６．Shirasu Shrine
Nestled along the shores of Lake Biwa, Shirasu Shrine is the main shrine of the nationwide Shirasu (White Beard) Shrines. Dedicated to Sarutahiko-no-mikoto, the god of longevity, it is also known for matchmaking, fertility, traffic safety, and good fortune. The famous torii gate stands in the lake.
７．Metasequoia Tree-lined Street
This straight road, approximately 2.4 km long, leads to Makino Highland, featuring about 500 Metasequoia trees with a height of up to 12m. The trees, especially stunning during seasons like fresh greenery, autumn foliage, and snowy winters, receive widespread acclaim.
８．Shiga Biwako Valley
Located at an altitude of about 1,100 meters, Shiga Biwako Valley offers breathtaking views from the “Biwako Terrace.” It provides different seasonal activities such as skiing in winter and aerial walks via ropeway.
９．Azuchi Castle Ruins
Situated atop Mount Azuchi, Azuchi Castle featured Japan’s first five-story seven-tiered main keep. Constructed by Oda Nobunaga in 1576, it burned down three years later after Nobunaga’s demise during the Honno-ji Incident.
１０．Biwako Terrace
Positioned at the summit of Mount Uchimi, approximately 1,100 meters above sea level, Biwako Terrace is a stunning spot with panoramic views. Enjoy different seasonal activities like skiing in winter and walking on a sky bridge via ropeway.
１１．Sanno Sosha Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine
Serving as the headquarters for about 3,800 Sanno shrines nationwide, Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine’s main hall is a national treasure, and other structures are designated important cultural properties.
１２．Omi Jingu Shrine
Enshrining Emperor Tenji, known for composing the first poem of the Ogura Hyakunin Isshu, Omi Jingu Shrine is considered the hall of fame for the Hyakunin Isshu card game. It gained additional fame as the setting for a popular manga series.