A Journey through Lake Biwa: Local-Guide-Led Explorations of Nature and Cuisine

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy exploring nature, history, and local culture at a relaxed pace. It is ideal for those who love scenic lakeside views, sacred sites such as Shirahige Shrine and Chikubu Island, and charming historic towns like Samegai-juku and Kinomoto-juku.

If you appreciate local cuisine—such as Biwa trout, Omi beef, and rainbow trout—and want to experience traditional crafts like wood carving and local breweries, this trip is a great fit. The tour is also well suited for small groups, couples, and families who prefer an authentic, guided experience with a local guide over a standard sightseeing bus tour.

Physical Activity: Small
Lenght of trip: 2days, 1 nights
Capacity: 1~10

Visualize yourself:

Day 1 : One Day, Four Treasures of Lake Biwa: Shrine, Island, Town, and Table

Included meals: Lunch, Dinner

This tour is a well-curated 2-day, 1-night journey that allows you to experience the history, nature, and local culture of Lake Biwa all at once. The tour begins with a visit to Shirahige Shrine, famous for its iconic torii gate standing in the lake, where you will enjoy a brief introduction and photo opportunities in a mystical setting.

Next, you will board a ferry from Imazu Port to Chikubu Island, a sacred power spot floating on Lake Biwa. Here, you can explore historic temples and shrines while enjoying the island’s tranquil and spiritual atmosphere. Afterward, you will travel by ferry to Nagahama Port and head to your lunch venue.

For lunch, savor Biwa trout, a local delicacy from Lake Biwa, and immerse yourself in Shiga’s rich culinary traditions.

In the afternoon, visit Kinomoto-juku, a historic post town that still retains the charm of the Edo period. You will explore sake breweries, soy sauce makers, and stroll through its atmospheric streets, experiencing the traditions and daily life rooted in the region.

The day concludes with check-in at a hotel in Nagahama. Enjoy a relaxing evening after a day filled with history, nature, cuisine, and culture, and look forward to the continuation of your journey the next day.

Day 2 : Experience Traditional Japanese Culture

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 begins with a peaceful and immersive experience of nature and culture. Enjoy a stroll around Keisoku-ji Temple and nearby tea fields before heading to Samegai-juku, a historic post town along the Nakasendo route. Here, you can explore charming streets with clear spring water, beautifully complemented by Baikamo (water buttercups), which are in season from mid‑May to late September, with peak viewing in late July to August.

For lunch, savor local specialties such as rainbow trout and Omi beef.

In the afternoon, take part in a traditional wood carving experience with a local artisan in Kaminyu, offering insight into regional craftsmanship. The day concludes with a Zen experience at Seigan-ji Temple, followed by a relaxing matcha tea break.