11 Best Things to Do in Shiga, Japan’s Hidden Gem Near Kyoto

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 the precincts of Shirahige Shrine, you will find many monuments with famous poems inscribed 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 near Lake Biwa, 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.

Located on the western shores of Lake Biwa in the historic Katata district, this iconic “Floating Temple” has inspired poets and artists like Matsuo Basho for centuries. Originally founded in the Heian period by the monk Genshin to pray for lake safety, the temple is most famous for its inclusion in the “Eight Views of Omi.” Whether you plan to visit at sunrise to witness the gold-leaf altar glow or looking for a peaceful day trip from nearby Kyoto, Mangetsu-ji offers a unique blend of spiritual history and breathtaking lakeside architecture. 

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 looking for things to do at 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.

Often called the “Kyoto you didn’t know,” Shiga offers a breathtaking alternative to its famous neighbor, featuring iconic views of Lake Biwa framed by vibrant reds and golds. From the world-famous Metasequoia Namiki Avenue in Takashima, to the “natural red carpet” of fallen leaves at Keisoku-ji Temple, Shiga is a dream for autumn photography.

So, visit some spots mentioned in our Best Fall Foliage Destinations in Shiga Prefecture article and embrace the fiery transformation of autumn in Shiga!

While crowds flock to nearby Kyoto, Shiga offers a more serene and spectacular hanami experience centered around the shores of Lake Biwa. From the famous 4-kilometer “Sakura Tunnel” at Kaizu Osaki to the illuminated night blossoms of the majestic Hikone Castle, Shiga is home to several of Japan’s “Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots.”

So, refer to our Shiga Prefecture’s Top Cherry Blossom Destinations article and experience the magic of spring in Japan with a guide to the best cherry blossom destinations in Shiga Prefecture!