Guide to Northern Shiga
Overview of Northern Shiga
Northern Shiga is home to Nagahama and Maibara, where historical charm meets scenic views of Lake Biwa.
Nagahama's streets preserve the charm of a castle town, ideal for exploring alongside the beautiful lakeside scenery.
Maibara is a charming gateway to northern Lake Biwa and nearby mountain trails, offering a relaxing mix of nature and history.
Enjoy walks by the lake, seasonal festivals, and the rich heritage of the region.
Trip Ideas in Northern Shiga
Reveal the Roots of Japan’s Spiritual & Cultural Heritage
Explore Shizugatake Nature and Walk a Historic Messenger Road
Unwind with Nature on a Freshwater Adventure Around Lake Biwa
Explore the Core Values of Japan Through the Life and Legacy of the “Omi Merchants”
Two Gems of Shiga: Rosa & Berry Tawada English Garden and Samegai Trout Farm
Your Complete Travel Guide to Lake Biwa, Japan’s Largest Lake
Woodypal Yogo
Allows you to enjoy the outdoors any time of year, with cottages, a restaurant, a ski slope and campsite.
Yanmar Museum
An experience based museum that was opened to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the establishment of Yanmar.
Ikehara Soba Dojo
A refurbished old house that lets you experience authentic soba noodle making for yourself.
Tonda Puppet Hall
The origins of Tonda Ningyokan date back to the 6th year of Tenpo (1835).
Discovery JAPAN in Lake Biwa Tour
The Lake Biwa Tour departs from Nagahama and tours Lake Biwa in an amphibious bus.
Biwako Backroads
Biwako Backroads offers a series of guided tours for inbound tourists, based out of Maibara Station in Shiga Prefecture.
Onoe Onsen Ryokan Beniayu
A quiet and calming hot spring located in Kohoku.
L’ Hôtel Du Lac
The large grounds of approx. 100,000 square meters, almost three times the size of the Tokyo Dome, feature nature walks that allow you to experience the colors of the four seasons, and has a large lawn area between the hotel and Lake Biwa.
Woodypal Yogo
Allows you to enjoy the outdoors any time of year, with cottages, a restaurant, a ski slope and campsite.
Sugatani Onsen
Sugatani Onsen is famous for its hot spring waters, which the generals of the warring states period would often visit for extended periods.
Hotel & Resorts NAGAHAMA
The Nagahama Royal Hotel is a resort hotel that stands on the shores of Lake Biwa, extremely conveniently located just 3 minutes on foot from Nagahama Port and 5 minutes on foot from Nagahama-jo Castle.
Explore More Things to Do in Northern Shiga
Wondering what to pack for your trip?
Check Shiga’s year-round weather and climate trends to help you prepare for your trip.
