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
Sannou Festival (Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine)
Sannou Festival is a regular festival held in Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine, which is conducted to pray for a rich harvest. It is said that the festival began about 1,300 years ago when Miwa-myoujin returned to Sakamoto. Vill...
Ukimi-dou Temple
Ukimi-dou is a temple which is known for the painting "Katata-no-rakugan" from Omi Hakkei. The official temple name is Kaimonzan-Mangetsu-ji. It is said that Eshin Souto founded the temple while praying for the safety...
Mitsui-dera Temple
Mitsui-dera temple is the headquarters of the Tendai-jimon sect. In the precinct, there is a well called "akai," which was used for the first baths of Emperor Tenji, Emperor Tenmu, and Emperor Jitou. Because of this,...
Lake Biwa Flower Fountain
This fountain is located on top of the breakwater located 180m offshore. It is a big fountain of about 440m long and about 40m tall (almost as tall as a ten-story building). The fountain is lit up at night.
Great Fireworks Festival at Lake Biwa
This festival has become one of the regular events of Lake Biwa in the summer and holds one of the greatest fireworks festivals in Japan. Many people from within and outside Shiga prefecture visit during the festival ...