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50 Available Tour Excursions in Shiga Prefecture
Join a unique cultural experience led by Misato Takahashi, an Otsu native and daughter of Wado Takahashi, an Otsu-e artist originally from the Otsu-e master family, Takahashi Shozan. Misato is fervently committed to preserving the important local tradition of Otsu-e painting, a form of traditional folk art that originated in this area about 400 years ago. This unique cultural experience provides an excellent opportunity to delve into Japan's artistic heritage, immersing yourself in the creativity and artistic expression that has enriched Otsu's local culture for centuries. And with only a 10-minute train ride from Kyoto Station, you can relax in the cozy lakeside town of Otsu while exploring the city's rich history and treasures.
Price: $106.23
Duration: 3 hours
Just one hour from Kyoto, this immersive cultural experience takes you to the quieter shores of Lake Biwa, where daily life has long been shaped by water, faith, and the changing seasons. Guided by a Buddhist monk and his wife, a multilingual local guide, you’ll go beyond sightseeing to explore a historic town, observe temple life, and learn how spirituality is woven into everyday routines. The journey continues with a visit to a traditional sake brewery for a tasting, followed by scenic viewpoints overlooking Japan’s largest freshwater lake. Blending nature, history, and living traditions, this thoughtfully paced tour offers a genuine connection to rural Japan—ideal for travelers seeking depth, calm, and meaningful cultural encounters. Operates year-round and in all weather conditions.
Price: $182.59
Duration: 7 hours
Experience the beauty of Sakamoto and Mount Hiei on our exclusive tour. Start with a scenic ride on the Sakamoto Cable Car, Japan’s longest cableway, offering stunning views of Lake Biwa and misty forests. At the top, visit the sacred Enryaku-ji Temple, a historic Buddhist site with deep spiritual significance. Then, explore the charming town of Sakamoto, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Immerse yourself in this unforgettable journey through the spiritual and natural wonders of the region. Book your tour today!
Price: $207.49
Duration: 3 hours
・Private guided bass fishing tour on Lake Biwa ・Ride on a high-performance bass boat with a local expert ・Suitable for beginners and experienced anglers alike ・All fishing gear, lures, and life jackets included ・Round-trip hotel pickup from Kyoto city included
Price: $650.69
Duration: 8 hours
Ōtsu’s Miidera Temple, nestled along the serene shores of Lake Biwa, invites you to uncover over 1,200 years of Buddhist history. Known for its great bronze bell and a revered Kannon Bodhisattva statue, this historic site showcases architectural elegance amid tranquil paths and stunning lake views. The option to extend your visit to Enryaku-ji Temple offers a glimpse into the heart of Tendai Buddhism, highlighting the unique rivalry and cooperation between these two spiritual hubs. This journey through Japan's religious landscape promises to connect you deeply with the region's cultural heritage. - Explore the historic Miidera Temple, a key site in Japanese Buddhism - Option to visit Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei, a pivotal monastery - Experience the beauty of the temple grounds across all seasons - Suitable for spiritual seekers, history enthusiasts, and cultural travelers alike
Price: $73.04
Duration: 1 hours
Just a 20 minute shinkansen ride from Kyoto to our starting point, we offer an easy way to explore small town rural life in Japan on this leisurely beginner-friendly ride, with a local resident guide, fluent in English, to help you enjoy our area’s unique geographical and historical points of interest. This 13km course features a broad range of sights such as rice and agriculture fields, historic trade routes, local villages combining old and new ways of life, a temple and shrine, a brief hike, and the shores of Lake Biwa, all in about 3 hours. In our tours, we hope to both share and preserve our local culture and traditions. Toward this goal, we also work closely with municipalities and residents to ensure that we always respect the wishes and needs of the local communities that we visit. Our convenient location and short tour time make it easy to explore more before or after your tour too, such as visiting Hikone Castle, or Lake Biwa!
Price: $109.55
Duration: 3-4 hours
Meet your local host Michiyo and let her introduce you to the special menu of the day, before you start your hands-on cooking experience in her Kyoto kitchen. Michiyo truly enjoys sharing her knowledge on Japanese cooking techniques that she has perfected over the years. You will learn to make dashi stock (a fundamental building block of Japanese cuisine), and to perfectly prepare sushi rice for chirashi-sushi that you will later garnish in a traditional wooden bowl. The cooking portion of the experience will take about an hour and half before you and Michiyo will sit down together to enjoy the authentic Japanese meal you helped prepare paired with carefully selected alcohol to accent the delicious food. Immerse yourself in Japanese culture and cuisine with the help of authentic food and a local's heart-warming hospitality!
Price: $86.00
Duration: 3 hours
・Private guided bass fishing tour on Lake Biwa ・Ride on a high-performance bass boat with a local expert ・Suitable for beginners and experienced anglers alike ・All fishing gear, lures, and life jackets included ・Round-trip hotel pickup from Kyoto city included
Price: $717.08
Duration: 8 hours
Explore the unique world of Otsu-e, Japan's lesser-known Edo period pop art. This tour takes you to the Otsu-e Museum, set in a traditional temple, where you'll uncover the fascinating history and themes behind these playful paintings. Then, visit the last remaining workshop to see traditional techniques in action and even purchase your own piece of Otsu-e art. Perfect for art enthusiasts and those keen on Japanese culture, this 1.5-hour experience highlights Otsu's artistic charm and rich heritage. - Discover the enchanting world of Otsu-e paintings - Visit the Otsu-e Museum and learn about the art's history - Experience a live demonstration at the last remaining workshop - Ideal for art lovers and those interested in Japanese culture
Price: $74.70
Duration: 1 hours
Delve into the rich tradition of Shigaraki ware, one of Japan's revered ceramic arts, on a guided two-hour tour in Shiga Prefecture. Begin at the Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park and Museum, where a local guide will share the storied history of this unique pottery, known for its earthy textures and stunning natural glazes. Witness contemporary artisans at work in two nearby studios, learning about their craft and the geological aspects that shape Shigaraki’s signature style. This tour is perfect for lovers of Japanese culture, ceramics collectors, or anyone curious about the intersection of art and community. - Guided two-hour exploration of Shigaraki's ceramic tradition - Visit the Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park and Museum - Observe artisans in two working studios and shops - Opportunity to purchase authentic Shigaraki ware with guide support
Price: $58.76
Duration: 2 hours
Tour Guidance and Important Notice The tour leader will guide you through the historical sites of Moriyama City and the scenic areas around Lake Biwa. Please wear comfortable clothing and footwear, as you will be renting a bicycle and engaging in light outdoor activity.
Price: $179.27
Duration: 8 hours
Explore the fascinating world of Japan's ninja on a guided tour of Koka, the birthplace of the Koka-ryu ninja. This immersive journey takes you through the Koka-ryu Ninjutsu Yashiki, a unique house that served as both home and fortress, revealing ingenious ninja architecture designed for survival. Learn the art of shuriken throwing and discover the real history of ninjutsu at the Koka-ryu Real Ninja Museum, complete with interactive exhibits and historical insights. Gain a deeper appreciation for the ninja's role in society through engaging stories told by a professional local guide. - Guided exploration of the Koka-ryu Ninjutsu Yashiki and its hidden features - Hands-on experience with shuriken throwing and interactive exhibits - Visit the Koka-ryu Real Ninja Museum with immersive displays - Learn about the true history and cultural significance of ninjutsu
Price: $83.66
Duration: 2 hours
Discover the Soul of Nagahama: A Journey Through History, Culture, and People of Town Step into the heart of Japan’s samurai legacy and festival brilliance with an unforgettable experience in Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture. Whether you're a history buff, culture lover, or curious explorer, this immersive journey offers something extraordinary.
Price: $58.43
Duration: 3 hours
Experience bass fishing on Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake and a world-famous destination for anglers. More than fishing – enjoy a unique opportunity to connect with Japan’s natural beauty and local culture from the water. Guided by a professional local fishing guide, with insider knowledge of the lake’s ecosystem, secret spots, and Japanese techniques. An immersive and authentic outdoor adventure, very different from standard sightseeing. Suitable for adventure seekers, families with kids, and travelers looking for a relaxing yet exciting day on the water. Chance to catch trophy-sized bass while surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Free round-trip transportation available from hotels or train stations in Kyoto City. Fishing gear rental included for free, so no need to bring your own equipment.
Price: $743.64
Duration: 4 hours
We will hold an experiential activity where you can actually cook teppanyaki under the guidance of a chef while eating. It will be a valuable experience. You will enjoy your meal and then have the opportunity to try flambéing the steak for the main course. The menu is based on French cuisine that combines high-quality ingredients from various regions with local ingredients, and is prepared on a hot plate, with each dish prepared with care. Enjoy the delicious food prepared by the chef at a high-end teppanyaki restaurant and have a valuable experience that you cannot have anywhere else, making it even more enjoyable. You will enter the kitchen and experience cooking various ingredients under the guidance of the chef, grilling them on a teppanyaki grill, flambéing them, cutting them, plating them, etc. This experience is available to those who want to have a valuable experience in Japan, those who are interested in cooking, and families with children, from age 10 onwards.
Price: $182.59
Duration: 2 hours
Immerse yourself in the charm of Ōmihachiman, a historic merchant town in Shiga, on a guided bar-hopping tour that showcases its culinary delights and vibrant night scene. With a professional local guide, visit two handpicked establishments tailored to your preferences, whether you seek local sake, hearty meals, or lively atmospheres. Enjoy ¥1,500 worth of food and drinks at each stop, all while learning about the rich history of the Omi merchants and the town's enduring hospitality. Connect with locals, share stories, and savor the flavors unique to this lakeside gem. - Explore Ōmihachiman’s culinary culture through local bars and eateries - Enjoy ¥3,000 worth of food and drinks included in the tour - Personalized recommendations based on your interests and the evening's vibe - Engage with locals for a deeper understanding of the community and traditions
Price: $139.43
Duration: 2 hours
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kusatsu, a city rich in history and culture along the Tōkaidō route. This bar hopping tour immerses you in local traditions as you visit two unique establishments, indulging in a food and drink allowance of 1,500 yen per bar. Your knowledgeable local guide will share insights into Kusatsu's izakaya culture, introducing you to recommended dishes and local beverages. Choose between the historic Kusatsu Station area with its traditional izakayas or the youthful atmosphere of Minami-Kusatsu Station filled with casual pubs and craft beer houses. Enjoy an unforgettable evening filled with flavors, friendships, and cultural stories that reflect the heart of Shiga Prefecture. - Explore the lively nightlife of Kusatsu with an experienced guide - Visit two unique bars and enjoy a 1,500 yen food and drink allowance - Choose from the historic Kusatsu Station or the vibrant Minami-Kusatsu area - Immerse yourself in local culinary traditions and izakaya culture
Price: $139.43
Duration: 2 hours
Discover Hikone Castle, a National Treasure perched above Lake Biwa, on an insightful tour led by a knowledgeable local guide. Explore the castle's impressive architecture and learn about its historical significance as a military and political stronghold during the Tokugawa shogunate. After your castle exploration, savor the exquisite taste of Omi beef, one of Japan's premier wagyu varieties, at a nearby restaurant steeped in local tradition. Whether you choose the shorter or extended tour, this journey offers a deep dive into the cultural legacy of the Ii family and the rich flavors of Shiga. - Explore Hikone Castle's stunning architecture and rich history - Choose between a short or extended tour for varying depths of exploration - Enjoy a culinary experience featuring renowned Omi beef in an Edo-style setting - Gain insights from a local expert about the castle's significance and the Ii clan's influence
Price: $229.07
Duration: 3 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: JPY
- Languages: Japanese, English (commonly spoken by tourists)
- Climate: Humid subtropical
- Timezone: Asia/Tokyo
- Population: Approximately 1.4 million people
- Best Time to Visit: times to visit are spring and autumn for pleasant weather and scenic beauty.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from many countries including the US, EU, and UK can enter Japan visa-free for short stays up to 90 days. Visa on arrival is generally not available. E-visa options are expanding but travelers should check current requirements before travel. A valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds are typically required.
About Shiga Prefecture
Shiga Prefecture offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and outdoor adventure. Dominated by Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan, Shiga is a haven for nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and those seeking tranquility away from crowded cities. The region’s landscape features lush mountains, serene lakeshores, and historic towns that preserve traditional Japanese architecture and culture. Visitors can explore ancient castles like Hikone Castle, enjoy scenic cycling routes around the lake, and relax in hot springs. Shiga’s proximity to Kyoto makes it an ideal day trip or extended stay destination for travelers wanting to experience authentic rural Japan alongside rich cultural sites. Its festivals, local cuisine, and welcoming communities add to the charm, making Shiga a compelling destination for those looking to immerse themselves in both nature and history.
Shiga Prefecture Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Kansai
- Duration Range: 2 to 10 hours
- Group Size: Flexible group sizes
- Difficulty Level: All Comfort Levels
- Recommended For: The best times to visit are spring and autumn for pleasant weather and scenic beauty. Pack comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and insect repellent for outdoor activities. Respect local customs such as removing shoes indoors and quiet public behavior. Shiga is generally very safe, but standard travel precautions apply. Cash is widely used, so carry some yen, though credit cards are accepted in many places.
Average Tour Price: $80
Lowest Price Tour: $39
Highest Price Tour: $220
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Lake Biwa – Japan’s largest freshwater lake, perfect for boating, fishing, and lakeside walks. 2. Hikone Castle – One of Japan’s few original castles, offering historical exhibits and beautiful gardens. 3. Miho Museum – An architecturally stunning museum nestled in the mountains, showcasing Asian and Western art. 4. Enryaku-ji Temple – A UNESCO World Heritage site located on Mount Hiei, significant for its Buddhist history. 5. Omi-Hachiman – A historic town with preserved Edo-period streets and traditional merchant houses.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy cycling around Lake Biwa on well-maintained bike paths, hiking in the surrounding mountains, and boating or kayaking on the lake. Cultural experiences include visiting ancient temples and castles, participating in local festivals, and exploring traditional crafts. Shiga also offers hot spring bathing and seasonal events like cherry blossom viewing and autumn leaf festivals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Shiga’s cuisine highlights freshwater fish from Lake Biwa, such as funazushi, a traditional fermented sushi made with carp. Other specialties include Omi beef, one of Japan’s top wagyu brands, and freshwater eel dishes. Local dining often emphasizes seasonal ingredients and simple, elegant presentation. Recommended restaurants include those specializing in Omi beef and lakeside eateries offering fresh fish dishes.
Getting Around
Shiga is accessible by train from major cities like Kyoto and Osaka via the JR Tokaido Line and other regional railways. Local buses connect towns and tourist sites. Renting a car is convenient for exploring rural and lakeside areas. Transportation costs are moderate, with affordable train passes available for tourists.
Travel Tips
The best times to visit are spring and autumn for pleasant weather and scenic beauty. Pack comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and insect repellent for outdoor activities. Respect local customs such as removing shoes indoors and quiet public behavior. Shiga is generally very safe, but standard travel precautions apply. Cash is widely used, so carry some yen, though credit cards are accepted in many places.
Culture & Customs
Shiga’s culture is deeply rooted in traditional Japanese values of respect, harmony, and community. Festivals such as the Hikone Festival celebrate local history with parades and performances. Visitors should observe polite greetings, bowing, and quiet conversation in public. Removing shoes before entering homes and some temples is customary. Participating in local tea ceremonies or craft workshops offers insight into regional traditions.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..