Majestic mountain vistas, breathtaking coastal views, and an ambience woven by history and the four seasons -- here you can enjoy the varied flavors of the changing seasons amid historical townscapes. You'll find many things to see, along with convenient access. We welcome you to Chubu, where you're sure to have a thrilling trip!
Shiga
Thrilling Scenery Formed by Shimmering Lake Biwa and the Tapestry of History
Shiga Prefecture is home to Lake Biwa, Japan's largest. The lake affords vistas of scenic beauty from every angle. The prefecture also still retains many historical sites with connections to Oda Nobunaga, Toyoomi Hideyoshi, and other military commanders from Japan's Warring States period.
Major specialty products : Omi beef, crucian carp sushi, Shigara-yaki porcelain, velvet and velour
Number one in Japan for : Lake Biwa (largest lake), production of woven hemp fabric, giant kites (Yokaichi Giant Kite Festival)
Sightseeing destinations : Biwako Visitors Bureau
Miho Museum
This museum was designed by I.M. Pei, a famous architect who is known for pyramid made of glass in the Louvre. The museum owns the ground of 300,000 tsubo (about 99000 square meters) in size and this has a promenade l...
The streets of Gokashou
In Gokashou, there are many museums, old residences, and storage houses that Omi merchants built. The beautiful streets illustrate the harmonious existence of the white-walled residences, earthen storage buildings and...
Colored Leaves in Kotou Sansen
On the west side of the Suzuka Mountain Range in the east part of Shiaga prefecture, there is a group of temples called Kotou Sansen, which are Hyakusai-ji, Kongourin-ji, and Saimyou-ji temples. In autumn, these three...
Streets of Sakamoto
In Sakamoto, which prospered as a gate front town of Hieizan Enryaku-ji temple, there are about 50 ribou (priest residence). These residences were used by old monks who retired from the severe training on top of the m...
Suigou Boat Rides
Omi Hachiman boat rides are a major attraction in this area, where visitors can enjoy the beautiful environment of Omi Hachiman while riding on a boat. The visitors can "look at the wild yoshi plants growing in groups...