Shiga Prefecture is located in the Kansai region of Japan, just east of Kyoto. It is home to Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan, as well as numerous historic temples and shrines. In this article, we will discuss how to get to Shiga Prefecture from Tokyo, the best season to visit, and 10 must-see places in the region.
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Getting to Shiga Prefecture from Tokyo
The easiest way to get to Shiga Prefecture from Tokyo is by taking the Tokaido Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto Station, which takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. From there, you can take a local train or bus to your destination in Shiga.
Best Season to Visit Shiga
The best season to visit Shiga Prefecture is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the scenery is beautiful. In the spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and in the fall, the leaves of the trees around Lake Biwa turn a brilliant red and orange.
Must-See Places in Shiga Prefecture
Hikone Castle
Hikone Castle is one of only 12 original castles in Japan and is designated as a National Treasure.
Lake Biwa
Lake Biwa is the largest freshwater lake in Japan and offers stunning views, water activities, and delicious local seafood.
Miho Museum
The Miho Museum houses a collection of ancient and contemporary art and is located in a scenic natural setting.
Nagahama Castle
Nagahama Castle is a reconstructed castle that offers panoramic views of Lake Biwa and the surrounding area.
Ishiyama-dera Temple
Ishiyama-dera Temple is a historic temple that is said to have inspired the famous novel “The Tale of Genji.”
Biwako Valley
Biwako Valley is a ski resort in the winter and a popular spot for hiking and enjoying the scenery in the summer.
Chikubushima Island
Chikubushima Island is a small island on Lake Biwa that is home to a historic shrine and is a popular spot for hiking and enjoying the scenery.
Omi Jingu Shrine
Omi Jingu Shrine is a historic shrine that was built to honor Emperor Tenji and is known for its beautiful architecture and surrounding park.
Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park
Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park is a museum and workshop where visitors can learn about traditional Japanese ceramics and try their hand at making their own.
Cuisines you can enjoy in Shiga
Omi Beef
Omi beef is a high-quality Wagyu beef from the Shiga region that is known for its rich flavor and tender texture. It is best enjoyed as a steak or in a traditional Japanese hotpot called sukiyaki.
Funazushi
Funazushi is a type of fermented sushi made with fish from Lake Biwa. The fish is salted and then fermented with rice for up to six months, resulting in a unique, tangy flavor.
Kamo-nasu
Kamo-nasu is a type of eggplant that is grown in the Kamo River area of Shiga. It has a delicate flavor and a tender texture and is often grilled or roasted and served with miso paste.
Biwa Salmon
Biwa salmon is a type of salmon that is found only in Lake Biwa. It has a delicate, sweet flavor and is often served grilled or smoked.
Omi Manju
Omi manju is a traditional sweet from the Shiga region. It is a small, round cake filled with sweet red bean paste and flavored with cinnamon and other spices.
Hikone-zuke
Hikone-zuke is a type of pickled vegetable that is popular in the Hikone area of Shiga. It is made with a variety of vegetables, including cucumbers, eggplant, and daikon radish, and is pickled with vinegar, soy sauce, and other seasonings.
Recommended Accommodations in Shiga
Biwako Hotel
Biwako Hotel is a luxurious hotel located on the shores of Lake Biwa. The hotel features spacious guest rooms with lake views, multiple restaurants serving Japanese and Western cuisine, and a hot spring spa.
Biwako Hanakaido
Biwako Hanakaido is a ryokan located on the shores of Lake Biwa. The ryokan features traditional Japanese-style guest rooms with tatami flooring and futon beds, as well as a hot spring bath and multiple restaurants serving Japanese cuisine.
Beniayu
Beniayu is a ryokan located in the mountains of Shiga. The ryokan features spacious guest rooms with private open-air hot spring baths, a traditional Japanese garden, and multiple restaurants serving local cuisine.
Yumotokan
Yumotokan is a ryokan located on the shores of Lake Biwa. The ryokan features traditional Japanese-style guest rooms with tatami flooring and futon beds, as well as a hot spring bath and multiple restaurants serving Japanese cuisine.
L’Hotel du Lac
L’Hotel du Lac is a boutique hotel located on the shores of Lake Biwa. The hotel features spacious guest rooms with lake views, a French restaurant, and a hot spring bath.
Ogoto Onsen Seiryu
Ogoto Onsen Seiryu is a ryokan located on the shores of Lake Biwa. The ryokan features traditional Japanese-style guest rooms with tatami flooring and futon beds, as well as a hot spring bath and multiple restaurants serving local cuisine.
Hikone Castle Resort & Spa
Hikone Castle Resort & Spa is a hotel located near Hikone Castle. The hotel features spacious guest rooms with castle views, a hot spring bath, and multiple restaurants serving Japanese and Western cuisine.
Yumoto Koishiya
Yumoto Koishiya is a ryokan located in the mountains of Shiga. The ryokan features traditional Japanese-style guest rooms with tatami flooring and futon beds, as well as a hot spring bath and multiple restaurants serving local cuisine.
Biwako Ryokusuitei
Biwako Ryokusuitei is a ryokan located on the shores of Lake Biwa. The ryokan features traditional Japanese-style guest rooms with tatami flooring and futon beds, as well as a hot spring bath and multiple restaurants serving Japanese cuisine.
Biwako Grand Hotel
Biwako Grand Hotel is a hotel located on the shores of Lake Biwa. The hotel features spacious guest rooms with lake views, multiple restaurants serving Japanese and Western cuisine, and a hot spring bath.
Conclusion
Shiga Prefecture offers a range of historic and natural attractions for visitors to explore. From the stunning scenery of Lake Biwa to the ancient temples and shrines, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful region of Japan. Whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or just want to relax and take in the scenery, Shiga is a great place to visit.
