Let's Enjoy Shiga! Hikone, Omihachiman and Otsu
Otsu Enjoy Bicycling Along the Shore of Lake Biwa While Feeling a Soothing Breeze!
Lake Biwa is Japan's largest freshwater lake and is approximately 200 kilometers in circumference. In recent years, Lake Biwa has become a popular place for cycling. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced biker, enjoy a cycling trip around the lake! Cycling is also recommended for touring various popular sightseeing spots in Otsu City.
Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel
Hotel offers bicycle rental service. Experience Lake Biwa from a slightly different perspective. Start your cycling journey from the Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel!
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¥400/hr. per bike, +¥200/each additional hr.
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Omi Jingu Shrine
1,350 years ago, Otsu was the capital of Japan even before the famous ancient capital of Nara and Kyoto. Omi Jingu Shrine, a symbol of that time, is today a popular destination for tourists to visit. The shrine is dedicated to Emperor Tenji, author of the first poem in the Ogura Anthology of 100 Poems by 100 Poets . The Japanese game of karuta is based on this ancient anthology, and accordingly Omi Jingu Shrine has become a notable place for the game and a nationwide tournament is held here each year.
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The red two-tier gate at the top of the steps leading to the shrine is a famous sight associated with Omi Jingu Shrine.
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Japan's first shrine dedicated to the game of karuta.
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Shiga Miidera Temple
The Shiga Miidera is the head temple of the Tendai Buddhist sect and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Shiga Prefecture. The grounds house the historic Mii no Bansho bell tower, considered one of the eight most picturesque sights in Omi, as well as a bell said to have once been drug away by the great warrior monk Benkei. The ancient atmosphere of the temple grounds has also resulted in it being famously used as a location for filming movies such as Rurouni Kenshin.
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The temple grounds will make you feel like you've gone back in time and are a popular filming location for movies as well.
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A popular Buddhist temple which has seen much strife.
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The Mii no Bansho bell tower has been considered one of the eight most picturesque sights in Omi since the 16th century.
Café Intro
The Karasuma Peninsula, with its west side facing Lake Biwa is a popular spot for cyclists to rest and the perfect place for a picnic. Café Intro, located at the entryway to the peninsula, is based on the concept of offering an introduction of Lake Biwa area here at the entryway. All of the café's items are available for takeout, including a variety of superb sandwiches, bento box lunches created in collaboration with popular local restaurants, and drinks. Why not buy some delicious sandwiches and go on a picnic?
This small café located on the shore of Lake Biwa also rents bicycles.
Café offers various menu items such as hot dogs and sandwiches that use abundant ingredients produced in Shiga Prefecture.
The café décor resembles a camp ground and is comfortable and laid back.
Kusatsu Aquatic Botanical Garden “Mizu no Mori”
The Kusatsu Aquatic Botanical Garden “Mizu no Mori” first opened on the Karasuma Peninsula 20 years ago. Focusing on aquatic plants, visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers here year-round. June and July are particularly excellent times to visit when the sacred lotus and water lilies are in full bloom. The Lotus-kan building has a greenhouse, giving visitors the chance to view beautiful tropical aquatic plants in bloom as well.
The park scenery is gorgeous and a mustsee.
Visitors are greeted by countless blossoms at the park entrance.
Visitors can view water lilies and varieties of plants rarely seen in Japan in the greenhouse.
Biwako Bunka Park Sekishoan Teahouse
In the Sekishoan Teahouse, located in Biwako Bunka Park on the south side of Lake Biwa, visitors can experience the authentic Japanese tea ceremony. Sip matcha powdered green tea, eat traditional Japanese confections, and gaze at the Japanese garden– you'll feel like you're in Kyoto. The teahouse's matcha powdered green tea goes perfectly with Japanese sweets made especially for Sekishoan by Kameya, a renowned, long-established local confectionery.
Immerse yourself in a uniquely Japanese moment of silence and elegance.
The park is filled with photogenic spots!
Immerse yourself in elegance as you gaze at the Japanese garden from the teahouse.
The delicate sweetness of the seasonal sweets goes perfectly well with matcha green tea.
