The Best Attractions to Visit in Shiga Prefecture

Erected around 2,000 years ago during the reign of Emperor Suinin, Shirahige Shrine in Takashima is a major attraction when visiting Shiga Prefecture. Located just north of Kyoto, Shiranhige Shrine features a torii gate in the water. In Shirahige Shrine’s precinct, you will find many monuments with famous poems engraved by literati as odes to the beautiful scenery around the shrine.

For more information, please refer to our Shirahige Shrine.

Did you know there is a ski resort in the Shiga Prefecture called Biwako Hakodateyama? It is another attraction in Takashima, Shiga, that we love. You can ski from December to mid-March. During other times of the year, majestic mountain views with gorgeous wildflowers await your visit. Imagine the amazing photos you can capture of Lake Biwa and the surrounding mountains from here!

For more information, please refer to our Biwako Hakodateyama article.

As the “Mother of Japanese Buddhism,” Mount Hiei offers a spiritual escape defined by ancient temples and breathtaking natural beauty. Because of its high elevation, this sacred peak serves as the vanguard for autumn colors in Kyoto, with its vibrant maples turning brilliant shades of crimson and gold as early as late October. Whether you are exploring the historic Enryaku-ji Temple or riding the scenic Sakamoto Cable Railway, Mt. Hiei provides an unforgettable fall foliage experience far above the crowded city streets.

Located in Otsu, Sakamoto is a stunning historic district famous for its unique Anoshu-zumi stone walls and deep spiritual heritage. As the traditional gateway to Mount Hiei, this “Temple Town” features the majestic Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine and the beautifully preserved gardens of former monk residences. Whether you’re riding the historic Sakamoto Cable Railway or exploring its moss-covered streets, Sakamoto offers an authentic glimpse into Japan’s ancient cultural landscape just minutes from Kyoto.

Have you ever dreamed of being a ninja? You know, the secret martial artists who wore all black and snuck around enemies gathering information in ancient Japan? Well, Kōka Ninja House in Shiga, Japan, is the base of one of Japan’s most famous ninja martial art schools. With hidden rooms, trick windows, rotating walls, and a 3-meter pit, you can channel your inner ninja by renting a ninja costume when you visit the Koka Ninja House. How awesome is that?

For more information, please refer to our Kōka Kōka City’s Ninja Attractions Guide article.

Mii-dera Temple, founded in the late mid-7th century, is another spot you can visit for seasonal colors if you are after things to do around Lake Biwa. With a rich history, the temple is known as the Temple of the Phoenix. With buildings filled with Japanese cultural treasures, visiting Mii-dera is a must-do for Japanese history buffs.

For more information about the amazing temple, please refer to our article on Mii-dera.

Hikone Castle was built over 400 years ago and is one of Lake Biwa’s most famous attractions. The castle in Hikone, Shiga, is three stories tall and is one of the last 12 castles in the world built in the Edo period. With cherry blossom trees and a plum forest, your visit to Hikone Castle will be amazing!

For more information, please refer to our Hikone Castle article.

Before leaving Chikubu Island, stop at Ryūjin Haijo and participate in the Kawarake-nage ritual, which involves making a wish on a plate and then throwing it through the stone torii gate. The scenery in this area is spectacular, and the island is a great spot to capture photos.

For more information, please refer to our Chikubu Island article.

Located south of Biwako Lake in Shiga, the Kōnan Sanzan comprises three temples erected in the 8th century. Filled with many maple trees, the autumn foliage in Kōnan Sanzan is one of the best in the area. Each of the three temples contains at least one Japanese National Treasure. With beautiful gardens, ponds, and even a waterfall in the area, Kōnan Sanzan should be at the top of your to-see list when visiting Shiga Prefecture.

For more information, please refer to our Kōnan Sanzan article.

There are two buildings at the museum, as well as an outdoor reception pavilion. Miho Museum houses over 3,000 works of art, with 250 to 300 on display at any given time.

In addition to traditional Japanese ceremonial artworks, there are priceless artifacts, sculptures, and paintings from Egypt and China, as well as works from throughout Asia.

For more information, please refer to our Miho Museum article.

If you plan to visit the Kansai region from late October to early December, you will want to check out our article on the Best Fall Foliage Destinations in Shiga Prefecture for some stunning spots to add to your itinerary.

We are sure you will discover some places you weren’t aware of!

Are you heading to Japan to adore the gorgeous cherry blossoms? If the answer is yes, check out our articles on Shiga Prefecture’s Top Cherry Blossom Destinations.

Many of the places we mention in the article are hidden gems. It means you won’t be pushed around when you get there!