When people visit the Kansai region, it’s almost always the same story: the vibrant city of Osaka, the ancient temples of Kyoto, and the friendly deer of Nara. And don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love all of those places. But what if I told you that just a quick train ride away from all that chaos is a place that feels like a giant breath of fresh air? I’m talking about Shiga Prefecture, the overlooked gem of Kansai that most tourists simply skip. It’s time to give this beautiful area a real spot on your travel list, because once you discover it, you will wonder why you didn’t come sooner.
Otorii gate in the Biwako lake – Photo Credit: mTaira
Let’s be honest for a moment: Kyoto and Osaka can be absolutely intense. The crowds, the noise, the endless lines for everything, it’s amazing but also exhausting. Shiga is the perfect antidote to that travel fatigue. It’s right there, practically next door, yet it feels worlds away from the tourist chaos. This is where you go for a slower, more relaxed, and more authentic slice of Japanese daily life. The air is cleaner, the pace is gentler, and you will feel more like a curious traveler than just another tourist with a selfie stick. The star of the show in Shiga is Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake, and it’s stunning in every single season. Just picture a vast, calm expanse of water with gentle mountains rising in the background, it offers a completely different kind of beauty than the cityscapes you are used to. And the very best part? Shiga is not out of the way at all. From Kyoto, it’s a straight shot on the JR line, about twenty minutes to Otsu city, the prefectural capital. It’s so easy to reach that there is really no excuse not to go. You could even base yourself in Shiga and easily explore Kyoto and Osaka from there, saving money on accommodation while enjoying a peaceful place to come home to each night.
Genkyuen Garden in Hikone – Photo Credit: leungchopan
So what do you actually do there? Skip the typical tourist attractions, Shiga offers some much cooler and more memorable alternatives. While many visitors head to Japan’s most famous castles, Hikone Castle offers a truly unforgettable “wow” moment. It’s one of only a handful of original castles left in Japan and is officially designated as a National Treasure. The view of Lake Biwa from the very top is absolutely incredible, and the Genkyu-en garden sitting right next door is a picture-perfect example of a classic Japanese landscape garden. It feels like stepping back in time without a single tour bus in sight.
Funazushi, the iconic Shiga’s food – Photo Credit: Furusato
Then there’s the food: Osaka is rightfully famous for its street food, but Shiga has a unique culinary secret that will blow your mind: funazushi, a traditional fermented fish dish that is considered one of the oldest forms of sushi in Japan. It’s made from a type of carp called nigorobuna, caught only in Lake Biwa, and fermented for years to develop a strong, funky flavor. It’s definitely an acquired taste, but trying it is a fantastic way to dive deep into local culture and impress any foodie friends back home.
Well-marbled Omi beef – Photo Credit: Oumiushi
For something more approachable, you absolutely must try Omi beef. This is one of Japan’s top three premium beef brands, alongside Kobe and Matsusaka, and it is melt-in-your-mouth delicious. You can find it as succulent steaks, in comforting hot pots, or even as juicy hamburgers in local restaurants.
Traditional saba zushi, a Shiga specialty – Photo Credit: Kurashi
Another local favorite is saba zushi, pressed mackerel sushi that’s simple yet incredibly flavorful. And because Shiga is blessed with the bounty of Lake Biwa, you will also find delicious freshwater fish dishes like sweetfish and small lake shrimp, often served crispy and deep-fried as a tasty snack. To wash it all down, Shiga is famous for its sake breweries, which use the pure, soft water from the region to create smooth, aromatic rice wines.
Scenic canal in historic Omihachiman – Photo Credit: Veltra
If you are tired of battling crowds in Kyoto’s famous bamboo groves, head instead to Omihachiman, a charming old merchant town with historic canals running right through its center. You can hop on a traditional wooden boat for a lazy, guided drift through the narrow waterways, passing under tiny bridges and alongside old white-walled storehouses. It’s incredibly peaceful, feels wonderfully authentic, and makes for fantastic photographs that your friends will be jealous of. And finally, if you want a spectacular view without the temple fatigue, take the ropeway cable car up to Biwako Terrace. In summer, it’s a cool, breezy observation deck with panoramic views of the lake, and in winter, it turns into a ski slope. Either way, the view of Lake Biwa stretching out below you is the main event, and the stylish café at the very top is the perfect spot to just sit, sip a drink, and soak it all in while the world rushes by far below you.
Our HR and Training Director, Norma, enjoying the Samurai Spirit of Shiga itinerary – Photo Credit: Arigato Travel
With so much to see, taste, and experience, planning the perfect Shiga adventure might feel a little overwhelming, but that’s exactly where we come in. If you want to dive deep into the region’s fascinating samurai and ninja history without the stress of figuring out all the logistics yourself, we have designed the perfect experience just for you. Our special The Samurai Spirit of Shiga tour is a two-day, one-night journey that takes you straight to the heart of this hidden gem. You will walk through historic sites connected to legendary warriors, participate in unique workshops that let you feel the samurai way of life, and, of course, savor incredible local dishes like the already mentioned Omi beef and traditional sake along the way. It is all carefully crafted so you can just relax, learn, and be amazed. You can check out all the details and book your spot right here. And if you prefer a completely custom itinerary, our expert team is always happy to create something tailored just for you (click here).
Shiga isn’t just a simple side trip from Kyoto or Osaka; it’s a great alternative packed with character, natural beauty, amazing food, and genuine warmth, all without the stress and exhaustion of big-city tourism. So next time you find yourself in Kansai, do yourself a huge favor: skip the rush, get on that train, and head to the quiet, beautiful side of the region. Trust me, you won’t regret it for a single second.
Featured Photo Credit: Arigato Travel
