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
Taga Taisha Shrine
Taga Taisha Shrine has been worshipped as a site dedicated to the god of long life and good long-term relationships. Believers, including Toyotomi Hideyoshi, came from all across Japan. The shrine is dedicated to Izan...
The Ruins of Azuchi Castle
This was the site of the residential castle of Oda Nobunaga (1534-82) located all over Mt. Azuchi, which is 199m above sea level. The site is designated as a special historic site. The castle was completed in about 3 ...
Sagichou Festival
Sagichou Festival is a fire festival held in Himure-Hachiman-gu Shrine on a weekend in mid March every year. Originally sagichou was conducted as a New Year event during the Hang Dynasty in China. It is said that peop...
The streets of Omi Merchant Residences
In Higashiomi city, excellent old streets still exists now. In particular, the Gokashou-kondou District is known as the birthplace of the Omi merchants who built the foundations of the modern Japanese economy. The mai...
Hachiman Boat
Hachiman Moat played an important role in the prosperity of the castle town under the Hachimanyama Castle where Toyotomi Hidetsugu lived during the Azuchi-Momoyama period. It is said that the success of the town and t...