Oku Japan, known for its immersive cultural journeys and deep local connections, has expanded its self-guided portfolio with two new itineraries in the Shiga Prefecture – a mountainous, secluded region that cradles one of Japan’s greatest natural treasures: Lake Biwa, the country’s largest freshwater lake. Just northeast of vibrant Kyōto yet remarkably peaceful and rural in character, this region offers travellers the chance to explore an area where nature, history, and living cultural traditions intersect in quietly compelling ways.
Lake Biwa is classified as one of the world’s few “ancient” lakes, with its origins stretching back more than 4 million years, and the entire region was designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1971. Thanks to its size and location, the lake has long shaped the spiritual and economic rhythm of the region. Its shores are lined with temples, merchant towns, and historic pathways that stretch back centuries. Today, visitors encounter a landscape where trails trace wooded ridges, lakeside temples continue their timeless rituals, and traditional communities reveal stories shaped by merchants, monks, and samurai.
Lake Biwa: Storied Trails of Shiga
Self-guided | 3 days | Priced from AU$1,135
Around the turn of the 17th century, Ōmi Province (present day Shiga Prefecture) was the stage for dramatic clashes between samurai clans, who were battling for control of key territories. Castles dominated the area’s mountain ridges, serving as both fortresses and symbols of their masters’ power. Over 400 years later, nature has reclaimed these battlegrounds, with many of the castles reduced to ruins, leaving in their place picturesque trails that offer panoramic views over Lake Biwa.
Ideal as a short standalone adventure or a seamless addition to a broader Japan journey, this three-day walk immerses travellers in both the enduring landscape and the brief but dramatic period that shaped it. As you take in the views of Shiga’s lakes and plains, you’ll learn about the heated battles and rivalries that swirled here.
Trip Highlights:
- Scenic hikes to castle ruins with sweeping views across the landscape.
- A chance to delve into the dramatic history of the end of Japan’s Warring States period.
- Visits to centuries-old temples once frequented by commoners and feudal lords alike.
Lake Biwa: Gateway to Kyoto
Self-guided | 5 days | Priced from AU$1,975
This brand-new itinerary takes a bit more time to explore the area around Lake Biwa, an oft overlooked but vitally important area that is rich in both historical landmarks and scenic nature.
Over the course of five days, you’ll travel around the perimeter of the lake, hiking up mountain trails, strolling through post towns, and visiting castles, temples, and more, as you delve into a history that dates to the 8th century. From Enryaku-ji Temple and Mount Hiei – central to the Tendai sect of Buddhism – to Hikone Castle, one of just a few castles in the country that has survived with its original structure, this journey puts the mountainous Shiga Prefecture on full display, with Lake Biwa sitting as its beating heart. Ride in an Edo-style boat through the reeds of Lake Nishinoko, a wildlife preserve, and take in the view from the summit of Mount Shizugatake, once the setting of a fierce battle between samurai and now a tranquil viewpoint. The final day will take you through the “gateway” and to Kyōto itself, walking alongside the Lake Biwa Canal, a marvel of Japan’s industrial revolution.
Trip Highlights:
- Travel to various points around Lake Biwa’s shores, including the city of Hikone, home to a magnificent castle, and sacred Mount Hiei.
- Travel by boat among the reeds of Lake Nishinoko, an important area of ecological preservation with an abundance of wildlife.
- Ride a cable car up to the ruins of Hachimanyama Castle, where – on a clear day – you can see straight across the lake to the mountains.
Oku Japan’s new self-guided trips here offer a way to explore this living landscape independently but with the confidence of detailed route notes, local support, and insider guidance from the company’s Kyōto-based team.
Learn more about Oku Japan’s many self-guided and guided adventures across all of Japan at OkuJapan.com.
