Top 10 Cultural Tours in Shiga Prefecture

Destination: Otsu.
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.
Known For: Otsu Private Sightseeing Tours, Otsu Walking Tours, Otsu Half-day Tours, Otsu Rail Tours, Otsu Cultural Tours, Otsu Art Tours, Otsu Historical Tours.
Duration: Around 3 hours and a half.

Destination: Shiga Prefecture.
For generations, the people of this region have lived in harmony with Lake Biwa — Japan’s largest freshwater lake. On this tour, you’ll discover how water shapes daily life, spirituality, and seasonal customs in these quiet villages. Your hosts are a Buddhist monk and his wife, a multilingual local guide, who will lead you beyond sightseeing into the heart of rural Japan. Together, you’ll stroll through a historic town, visit a traditional sake brewery for a tasting, and take in breathtaking views from Lake Biwa’s scenic spots. This journey weaves nature, history, and tradition into an experience that lets you truly connect with the countryside.
Known For: Shiga Prefecture Cultural Tours, Shiga Prefecture Religious Tours, Shiga Prefecture Bus Tours, Shiga Prefecture Car Tours, Shiga Prefecture Full-day Tours, Shiga Prefecture Tuk Tuk Tours , Shiga Prefecture Private Sightseeing Tours.
Duration: Around 7 hours.

Destination: Otsu.
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
Known For: Otsu Walking Tours, Otsu Cultural Tours, Otsu Private Sightseeing Tours, Otsu Historical Tours.
Duration: Around 1 hour and a half.

Destination: Otsu.
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!
Known For: Otsu Historical Tours, Otsu Cable Car Tours, Otsu Trolley Tours , Otsu Religious Tours, Otsu Walking Tours, Otsu Half-day Tours, Otsu Cultural Tours, Otsu Private Sightseeing Tours.
Duration: Around 3 hours and a half.

Destination: Shiga Prefecture.
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!
Known For: Shiga Prefecture Cultural Tours, Shiga Prefecture Sustainable Tours, Shiga Prefecture Half-day Tours, Shiga Prefecture Nature and Wildlife Tours, Shiga Prefecture Bike Tours, Shiga Prefecture Private Sightseeing Tours, Shiga Prefecture Mountain Bike Tours.

Destination: Otsu.
This is the only guided tour that takes you through all three sacred areas of Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei—Tōtō, Saitō, and Yokokawa. With a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll explore historic halls, ride shuttle buses between precincts, and experience the full spiritual journey of Japanese Tendai Buddhism. From the eternal flame of Konpon Chūdō to the forest serenity of Yokokawa, this tour offers a deeply immersive, one-of-a-kind pilgrimage experience just outside Kyoto.
Known For: Otsu Historical Tours, Otsu Cable Car Tours, Otsu Half-day Tours, Otsu Bus Tours, Otsu Trolley Tours , Otsu Walking Tours, Otsu Cultural Tours, Otsu Religious Tours, Otsu Private Sightseeing Tours.
Duration: Around 5 hours.

Destination: Shiga Prefecture.
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.
Known For: Shiga Prefecture Small Group, Shiga Prefecture Half-day Tours, Shiga Prefecture Historical Tours, Shiga Prefecture Walking Tours, Shiga Prefecture Cultural Tours.
Duration: Around 3 hours.

Destination: Otsu.
Explore the rich history and culture of Otsu on this engaging three-hour walking tour. Guided by a knowledgeable local, uncover Otsu's transformation from a bustling post town on the Tōkaidō highway to a spiritual center by Lake Biwa. Visit the Otsu Hyakucho-kan to feel the pulse of commerce and hospitality, savor the unique funazushi delicacy at Sakamotoya, and admire the unique Otsu-e art. The highlight is Miidera Temple, where ancient paths and sacred sites tell stories of devotion and culture. - Three-hour guided walking tour through Otsu's historic sites - Discover local delicacies like funazushi and unique Otsu-e art - Visit the revered Miidera Temple and its expansive grounds - Perfect for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike
Known For: Otsu Historical Tours, Otsu Walking Tours, Otsu Half-day Tours, Otsu Cultural Tours, Otsu Private Sightseeing Tours.
Duration: Around 3 hours.

Destination: Takashima.
This is a walking tour. We are not responsible for any injuries, accidents, or damages caused to others during the tour. Participants are expected to manage their own health and join the tour in comfortable, walking-friendly attire. Please follow the guide’s instructions at all times and refrain from any dangerous behavior. Be sure to follow traffic laws, rules, and manners to help prevent accidents. If you leave the designated route or act independently, it will be considered as a withdrawal from the tour. Please note that the tour may be canceled or altered due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. The listed tour duration is only an estimate. Please confirm parking availability at the time of registration. As public restrooms are limited at the site, group participants are advised to use facilities before arrival whenever possible.
Known For: Takashima Walking Tours, Takashima Half-day Tours, Takashima Historical Tours, Takashima Nature Walks, Takashima Nature and Wildlife Tours, Takashima Cultural Tours.
Duration: Around 3 hours.

Destination: Kyoto.
Your guided tour unveils the beauty of Hieizan Temple, Kyu-Chikurin-in, and Hiyoshitaisha Shrine, each a testament to Japan's rich heritage. Ascend Mount Hiei with a scenic cable car ride to Hieizan Temple, perched majestically amidst lush landscapes-Marvel at the intricate architecture and serene gardens steeped in centuries-old rituals. Savor a delightful seasonal lunch, a culinary interlude showcasing the region's flavors. This gastronomic experience complements the cultural richness, creating a harmonious blend of traditions. Continue your exploration at Kyu-Chikurin-in, a historic retreat nestled in verdant hills. Its beautiful trails and traditional Japanese garden offer a serene escape, inviting contemplation. Visit Hiyoshitaisha Shrine, a sacred sanctuary resonating with Shiga's cultural tapestry. Wander through torii gates and embrace the spiritual energy guided by stories shared by your expert guide.
Known For: Kyoto Historical Tours, Kyoto Rail Tours, Kyoto Full-day Tours, Kyoto Bus Tours, Kyoto Car Tours, Kyoto Day Trips, Kyoto Cultural Tours, Kyoto Private Sightseeing Tours.
Duration: Around 8 hours.