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Tourist Information Center Access

https://biwako-wifi-info.jp/?locale=en

TouristInformation

Shiga Prefecture is located virtually in the center of Japan.This prefecture is home to Biwako, Japan’s largest lake, and offers the perfect chance to get closer to its abundant greenery and water resources. It is easily accessible from Kansai International Airport, Chubu Centrair International Airport, major train stations, and the cities of Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagoya. Shiga will not disappoint fans of history, as it is home to historical temples, sites traversed by heroes of the Warring States period, neighborhoods that appear untouched by modernity, and plenty more places of historical and cultural significance.

From Tokyo

From Nagoya

From Kyoto

From Osaka

To Otsu To Hikone To Nagahama

2 hrs. 35 min.

45 min.

40 min.

2 hrs. 30 min.

45 min.

35 min.

2 hrs. 35 min.

55 min.

9 min.

1 hr. 10 min.1 hr. 5 min.39 min.

Travel times on the Shinkansen and limited express trains (approximate)

Biwako Free Wi-FiShiga · Biwako

Check to make sure your device’s Wi-Fi is enabled

Choose “Biwako_Free_Wi-Fi” from the available networks

Open your browser and follow theinstructions on the screen

Once complete, you will be able to connect to the Internet

While in Shiga Prefecture, visitors can use Biwako Free Wi-Fi at locations featuring the above logo. Use your smartphone or tablet to browse the web or share your experiences on social media.

Covering 674 km2, Biwako (“Lake Biwa”) is Japan’s largest lake; it is also an ancient one, said to have a history that goes back 4,000,000 years. Water fowl congregate here in winter to rest their wings, while in summer the lake buzzes with activity as tourists come to resorts for fun and lakeside activities. Biwako changes with the seasons and even with the time of day—it truly offers an abundance of beautiful scenery and diverse gifts.

Get information about Shiga Wi-Fi at the official site!Works with PCs, smartphones, and tablets.

Scan the code to connect

Delicious Foods in Shiga

Eating delicious meals is an important part of any trip! Shiga is home to wildly famous foods such as Omi beef; you’ll also find other specialties—made from local ingredients long loved by natives—that will give new meaning to the word “delicious”!

Under the warm, glowing sun or the shining, starry sky—Biwako’s ever-changing scenery is sure to delight. Visit and see for yourself!

Beautiful Views of Biwako

Tokyo

Nagoya

Osaka

Kyoto

Fukuoka

Naha

Sapporo

Shiga

Japan’s largest lake, Biwako offers plenty of diverse options for fun on the water, from refreshing cruises to thrilling water sports.

Exhilarating Fun in Biwako

Komatsu AirportKomatsu Airport

Kansai International Airport

Chubu Centrair International AirportChubu Centrair International Airport

Otsu

HikoneMaibara

Nagoya

Nagahama

Aichi

Gifu

Toyama

Ishikawa

Fukui

Nara

Wakayama

Osaka

Kyoto

Hyogo Shiga

Mie

Otsu Station Visitor’s Information CenterInformationAddress: 1-3 Kasugacho, Otsu, ShigaAccess: 1 min. on foot from Otsu StaionPhone: 077-522-3830Hours open to visitors: Open daily from 8:40 a.m. to 5:25 p.m. Closed from 29 Dec. to 3 Jan.Languages: English. Chinese and Korean: Part-timeWi-Fi: Available for freeInternet PC: Not Available

Hikone Tourist InformationInformationAddress: 40-7 Furusawa-Cho, Hikone City, ShigaAccess: 1 min. on foot from JR Hikone StationPhone: 0749-22-2954Hours open to visitors: Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed from 29 Dec. to 31 Dec.Languages: English. Chinese: Part-timeWi-Fi: Available for freeInternet PC: Not Available

The high-quality marbling makes for delicious and melt-in-your-mouth tender beef.

This sushi dish is one of Shiga’s most famous local flavors.Rich in lactic acid, the dish is made by fermenting a species of wild goldfish known as “funa.”It has a truly unforgettable flavor!

Omi BeefOmi Beef

Funazushi

Steak

Shabu-shabu

Otsu Hikaru-kun

Sukiyaki

Visitors are greeted by beautiful and unforgettable natural expressions of beauty that change with the seasons.Beautiful Sights of Shiga

In spring, Shiga brightens with the colors of blossoming flowers.

In summer, waterside blooms appear and bright fireworks light up the lake’s surface.

Cherry blossoms and moss pink at Nagisa Park

Narcissus in Biwako Valley

Cherry blossoms over the canals

Strawberry picking

Nagahama Hikiyama Festival (April)Hosted by Nagahama’s Hachimangu Shrine, this is one of Japan’s three great festivals of decorated floats. Atop the splendid structures are children performing showy kabuki scenes.

Lotus plants at the Karasuma peninsula

Summer rice paddiesat Mt. Ibuki

Baikamo underwater flowers

Taga Taisha Shrine Lantern Festival (August)12,000 lanterns light up the summer night sky, enveloping visitors in an other-worldly atmosphere. An open market is held on the path to the shrine.

Lake Biwa Great Fireworks Festival

In autumn, the mountains surrounding Biwako turn a deep red.

In winter, the shores and the mountaintops are dusted with snow.

Onyudani Pass

Avenue of Metasequaias

Hachimanbori Festival

Otsu Festival (October)The Tenson Shrine hosts this festival, one of the three great festivals of Shiga. Elegant music accompanies a parade of 13 dazzling floats.

Plum trees at Nagahama Castle (Nagahama Castle Historical Museum)

SL Kita Biwako

Snow-capped mountains and nanohana (rapeseed) flowers

Skiing and snowboarding

Snowy Genkyu Rakuraku-en GardenNagahama Bonsai Exhibition of Japanese Plum Trees (mid-January to late March)This is a continuous exhibition of 300 plum tree bonsai plants, with approximately 90 on display at any given time, according to the timing of their flowering. The plants, long a literary symbol of spring, are set out in a tatami-mat room in true Japanese fashion. The exhibit is Japan’s premier plum tree bonsai event in terms of both history and scale.

Autumn leaves at Keisoku-ji Temple

From Kansai International Airport to Shiga Prefecture

JR West JapanKansai Airport

Express Haruka

75 min. Limousine BusKansai Airport Line

88 min.

Chubu CentrairInternational Airport

Meitetsu Airport Express μ-SKY

30 min.

From Chubu Centrair International Airport to Shiga Prefecture

Chubu Centrair International Airport

25 min.

Kansai InternationalAirport

Kansai International Airport

Terminal 1

Meitetsu AirportExpress μ-SKY

5 min.6 min.on foot on foot 5 min.Tokaido Main Line

Rapid Service

9 min.

9 min.

JR Kyoto Line

JR Kyoto Line 25 min.Tokaido/Sanyo

ShinkansenTokaido/Sanyo

Shinkansen 25 min.

84 103 60 55Approx. Approx. Approx. Approx.

min. min. min. min.

Maibara Station

Nagoya Station

Meitetsu Nagoya Station

Maibara Station

Kanayama Station

Nagoya Station

Kyoto Station Hachijo Gate

Kyoto Station

Otsu Station

Kyoto Station

Otsu StationJR West Japan

Kansai Airport Express Haruka75 min.

Kansai International Airport

Osaka International Airport

Chubu Centrair International Airport

Omi-Shiotsu

Tsuruga

Kanazawa

TokyoTokyo

Nagoya

Hakata Okayama KyotoOsaka

Nozomi99 min.

JR H

okuriku Shinkansen

148 min.

JR Sanyo Shinkansen

Hikari25 min.

Hikari21 min.

29 min.

16 min.

80 min.

JR Tokaido Main Line

JR Hoku

riku

Main Line

Nozomi62 min.

Nozomi98 min.

Meitetsu Airport Express μ-SKY30 min.

Airport Bus55 min.

Maibara

From Tokyo75 min.

From Fukuoka60 min.

From Tokyo60 min.

From Fukuoka60 min.

From Sapporo100 min.

From Fukuoka75 min.

OtsuOtsuYamashinaYamashina

HikoneHikoneOmihachimanOmihachiman

Omi-ImazuOmi-ImazuNagahamaNagahama

JR To

kaido

Shink

anse

n

JR To

kaido

Shink

anse

n

日本語　校了印

➡翻訳担当者　印

➡翻訳チェック　印

表面

Kurokabe Square

SHIGA

Hieizan Enryaku-ji TempleOgoto Hot Springs

Hyakusai-ji Temple

Biwako Valley

Avenue of Metasequoias

Ukimido temple hall

Omi-jingu Shrine

The Omihachiman river side district

Lake BiwaMuseum

Chikubu IslandChikubu Island

Harie

Hikone-jo Castle

Fujii Honke Sake Brewery

Genkyu Rakuraku-en Garden

Sagawa Art Museum

Biwako Ohashi Bridge

Omi Ohashi Bridge

Azuchi

Ishiyama

Lake BiwaLake Biwa

Otsu

Enryaku-jiTemple

Sakamoto

Omihachiman

Shigaraki

Hikone

Notogawa

Nagahama

Omi-ShiotsuYogo

Kinomoto

Omi-Imazu

Omi-Takashima

Omi-Maiko

Hira

Ogotoonsen

Katata

Hieizan Sakamoto

Ishiyama-dera Temple

Maibara

Okishima IslandOkishima Island

Yokaichi

Hino

Kibukawa

Koka

Kusatsu

Makino

Hokuriku M

ain Line

Kusatsu Line

Ohm

i Railw

ay

Shigaraki Kohgen Railway

Tokaid

o Main

Line

(Biw

ako L

ine)

Kos

ei L

ine

ToyosatoTagataishamae

Hamaotsu

Gokasho

Yasu

Moriyama

Kyoto

Tokaido Shinkansen

Shirahige-jinja Shrine

MIHO MUSEUM

Otsukyo

Yamashina

Chikubushima Cruise

Biwako Cruise

Samegai (baikamo underwater flowers)

Ohminchi Farmer’s Market

Kongorin-ji Temple

Koka Ninja Village

Kaizu Osaki cherry blossoms

Biwako-HakodateyamaLily Park

Saimyo-ji Temple

Lake Biwa Flower Fountain

Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park

Hachiman-bori Canal

Kurokabe Square

Lake Biwa Canal

Shigaraki Ware

Omi-jingu Shrinegood-luck charms

Shuriken-throwingpractice

Sakamoto Cable Railway

One of the most significant sites in all of Japanese Buddhism, this monastery of the Tendai sect is also part of the World Heritage Site that comprises numerous monuments in the Kyoto region. The vast grounds emit a palpable sense of solemnity and wonder.● Sakamoto Honmachi, Otsu City

15 min. on foot to Sakamoto Cable Railway from Keihan Sakamoto StationExit the cable car at the final stop

Chikubu IslandChikubu Island, a small island with just 2 km of shoreline, is located in the northern part of Biwako. It is home to a shrine that is a national treasure, and has become famous in recent years as a floating “power spot.”● Chikubu Island, Hayazaki-cho, Nagahama City

Approx. 30 min. by boat from Nagahama Port

Hikone-jo CastleOne of Japan’s most famous castles, Hikone exudes a timeless and triumphant aura. The keep is registered as a national treasure, one of only five castles in Japan to hold such an honor.● 1-1 Konki-cho, Hikone City

15 min. on foot from JR Hikone Station

A famous garden located at the base of Hikone-jo Castle. Large ponds and abundant waters produce an artistic setting.● 1-1 Konki-cho, Hikone City

15 min. on foot from JR Hikone Station

Genkyu Rakuraku-en Garden

These canals, built to connect the town to the lake, retain vestiges of the Edo period and are a famous sightseeing spot due to their scenic beauty. Beautiful rockwork and rows of white-walled storehouses give a historical look to the surrounding area, which has been used as a set in Samurai movies.● Miyauchi-cho, Omihachiman City and

surrounding area12 min. by bus from JR Omihachiman Station

Fujii Honke Sake Brewery

Hyakusai-ji Temple

This brewery, surrounded by abundant natural waters and a famous rice-producing region, is a treasure trove of delicious Shiga sake. You’ll find a collection of distinct flavors in these carefully produced local libations.● Nagano, Aisho-cho

14 min. on foot from Ohmi Railway Echigawa Station

Lake Biwa MuseumOne of Japan’s largest museums focused on lake as the main theme.. It re-opened in July of 2016 with even more to enjoy and features an aquarium holding many freshwater fish from Japan and abroad. There’s plenty to find here that will leave you surprised and excited!● Oroshimo-cho, Kusatsu City

30 min. by bus from JR Kusatsu Station

HikonyanThis local mascot is a fusion of the maneki-neko cat said to have saved Hikone daimyo Naotaka Ii, and the bright red kabuto helmet worn by the Ii army. Hikonyan proudly welcomes visitors to Hikone-jo Castle.

Discount Tickets

Hieizan Enryaku-ji Temple

WorldHeritage

Hachiman-bori Canal

Harie

Emblem of the Hikone domain

Emblem of Hieizan

JR West Japan

Ohmi Railway

Keihan Railway

· Kansai Area Pass is valid for unlimited travel

in the valid area.

· Valid trains are below;

- Non-reserved seats on Kansai-airport

Express HARUKA

- Special Rapid Services, Rapid Services, and

Local trains on JR-WEST Conventional lines

Booking online or purchasing passes from a travel agent overseasSpecial early-bird discount!

Purchasing passes from a JR-West station after arrivingin Japan

1-day

2-day

3-day

4-day

2,200YEN

Adult1,100YEN

Child2,300YEN

Adult1,150YEN

Child

4,300YEN

Adult2,150YEN

Child4,500YEN

Adult2,250YEN

Child

5,300YEN

Adult2,650YEN

Child5,500YEN

Adult2,750YEN

Child

6,300YEN

Adult3,150YEN

Child6,500YEN

Adult3,250YEN

Child

8,500YEN

Adult4,250YEN

Child9,000YEN

Adult4,500YEN

ChildKansai WIDE Area 5-day

Kansai Area Pass

1-day

Kyoto SubwayKeihan Otsu Line

Kyoto City Subway Karasuma and Tozai Lines/ Keihan Railway Keishin and Ishiyama Sakamoto Lines

Unlimited rides all day with 1 ticket! ¥1,100(Adults only)

¥880Adults

¥440Children

Smile TicketCan be used on Fridays, weekends, and holidays.Unlimited rides on Ohmi Railway for one day.

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TakashimaTakashima A tourist spot with a group of traditional buildings. Perfect for a stroll, you’ll find glass shops, galleries, workshops, and restaurants, all housed in Edo- and Meiji-era architecture.● Motohama-cho, Nagahama City

10 min. on foot from JR Nagahama Station

NagahamaNagahama Hikone & Maibara

Omihachiman & Higashiomi

Kusatsu & Moriyama

Koka

OtsuOtsu

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This is the oldest of the three temples in the east of Biwako, a location famous for its brilliant fall leaves. The beautiful garden is charming, and the sight of the gate and main hall surrounded by red leaves will take your breath away.● Hyakusaiji-cho, Higashiomi City

15 min. by car from Ohmi Railway Yokaichi Station

Biwako Valley Zipline

1919

Join a cruise aboard the Michigan, a paddle steamer that traverses the southern part of the lake. On the ship, you’ll listen to great music, enjoy events, and dine on an array of foods at a buffet or a multi-course seated meal.● 5-chome, Hamaotsu, Otsu City (Otsu Port)

3 min. on foot from Keihan Hamaotsu Station

Experience a brand-new thrill in the great outdoors while sliding through the air on a wire at this adventure spot! This high-altitude zipline attraction is one of the biggest in Japan and offers breathtaking views.● Kido, Otsu City

15 min. by bus from Shiga Station on the JR Kosei Line

Biwako Cruise

This stunning lakeside museum, known locally as the “floating gallery,” houses a variety of Japanese paintings, sculptures, pottery, and more in exhibits and special events.● Kitagawa, Mizuho-cho, Moriyama City

30 min. by bus from JR Moriyama Station

Sagawa Art Museum

英語版

Shirahige-jinja ShrineHere at Shiga’s oldest shrine, the red torii gates appear to float in the lake, earning the shrine its nickname: “Omi’s Itsukushima.” ● Ukawa, Takashima City

5 min. by car from JR Omi-Takashima Station

Avenue of MetasequoiasAlso known as dawn redwood, approximately 500 of these trees line the roads here, and are beautiful in every season—budding in spring, bright green in summer, deep red in fall, and dusted with snow in winter.● Terakubo, Makino-cho, Takashima City

6 min. by bus from Makino Station on the JR Kosei Line

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11This museum, designed by world-renowned architect I. M. Pei, houses precious artifacts from along the Silk Road that once connected Asia to Europe.● Tashiro Momodani, Shigaraki-cho, Koka City

50 min. by bus from JR Ishiyama Station

One step into this village and you’re suddenly transported back in time to the era of ninjas! There are even places to test out your ninja skills and, once you’ve finished your training, you can receive a scroll certifying your initiation into these secret arts.● Oki, Koka-cho, Koka City

5 min. by shuttle bus from Koka Station on the JR Kusatsu Line

Koka Ninja Village

MIHO MUSEUM

This water at this hot spring, part of the territory encompassed by Mt. Hiei, is said to relieve exhaustion and beautify skin. Plan a visit here to soak in the tubs and forget your worries before enjoying a delicious Shiga meal.● Ogoto, Otsu City

20 min. on foot from JR Ogotoonsen Station

Omi-jingu ShrineNamed for Emperor Tenji, the enshrined deity and the first in Japan to create a water clock, this shrine includes a water clock platform and a treasure hall of clocks. It also hosts competitive karuta card competitions, and was the setting for the anime Chihayafuru.● Jingu-cho, Otsu City

10 min. on foot from Keihan Omi-jingu-mae Station

Ogoto Hot Springs

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Tokaido Shinkansen

Biwako-Hakodateyama Lily ParkBright and colorful flowers bloom all across this vast park at the top of the mountain. Take the lift up and be amazed at the flowers before you!● Hiokimae, Imazu-cho, Takashima City

20 min. by bus from JR Omi-Imazu Station

This gallery, dedicated solely to pottery, features buildings that house and sell Shigaraki ware. There are also, of course, multiple outdoor exhibits that allow visitors to experience art and nature with all five senses.● Chokushi, Shigaraki-cho, Koka City

20 min. on foot from Shigaraki Station on the Shigaraki Kohgen Railway

Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park

The best way to see the best of Shiga and Biwako!

Walk around Nagahama Chikubushima

Imazu Port

JR Omi-Imazu Station

JR Takashima

Station

JR Shin-

Asahi Station

Shirahige-jinja ShrineOmi-ImazuHarie Shozu-no-sato

(“Kabata”)

Nagahama PortStart at

Nagahama Station!

Kurokabe Square offers shopping, cafes, and even a place to try your hand at making glass art.

A large number of freshwater fish shops allow visitors to enjoy the local flavors.

This village has a very unique culture of water. Rain and melted snow from the Hira Mountains become underground water that bubbles up from individual springs located in local homes. The people here use this water for daily life.

The main hall at Hogon-ji Temple enshrines the goddess Benzaiten, who is said to lead followers to happiness. While there, be sure to write your prayer on a slip of paper and put it in one of the daruma dolls.

Stay in a hotel in Otsu

Path to Daitsu-ji Temple

Kurokabe Square Kurokabe Glass Shop

NagahamaChikubu Island

Omi-Imazu

Omi-Takashima

Otsu

裏面