2 Days Shiga Water Tour Mountains Lake Blessings and Capital

2 days (approximately)
Offered in: English

Start your journey from Kyoto Station and explore the beautiful scenery and unique attractions of Shiga Prefecture.
Located on the northern side of Lake Biwa—the largest lake in Japan—the cities of Maibara, Nagahama, and Takashima offer distinctive sights that cannot be found elsewhere.

This tour offers cultural experiences such as landing on Chikubushima, a sacred island floating on Lake Biwa, and visiting areas that utilize fresh mountain water flowing into the lake—showcasing the deep connection between nature and Japanese tradition.

Tour Notes
-This tour will be conducted in English.
-Children of elementary school age or younger are not allowed to participate.
-Please wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.

What's Included

1 breakfast, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner
The mode of transportation will vary depending on the number of participants—for small groups, a taxi may be used, while larger groups will travel by bus.
Admission fees for sightseeing spots included in the tour itinerary are covered.
personal expenses

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Kyoto Station

The meeting point will be in front of Avanti, a commercial complex located on the south side of Kyoto Station.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 days (approximately)
    Day 1

    From Kyoto to Nagahama, in the northern area of Lake Biwa

    3 stops
  • 1

    Enjoy a stroll through the garden of Seiganji Temple, followed by a traditional matcha tea experience.

    40 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 2

    Cross Lake Biwa from Nagahama Port to Chikubushima Island and explore the island’s sights.

    2 hours Admission ticket included
  • 3

    Take a lift up to Mt. Shizugatake and enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Biwa from the mountaintop.

    1 hour Admission ticket included
  • Day 2

    Pause at the clear waters of Takashima, then feel the flow of Lake Biwa as it carries you toward Kyoto.

    3 stops
  • 4

    Visit Kawashima Sake Brewery, located in the pristine Harie district, and enjoy tasting three varieties of Japanese sake. Afterwards, explore the Omizo area to learn about its Sengoku-period history and enjoy shopping for local products at the roadside station.

    3 hours Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Visit the iconic torii gate that stands gracefully in the waters of the lake

    20 minutes Admission ticket included
  • 6
    Nanzen-ji Temple

    You will be guided to the Suirokaku (aqueduct) located within the grounds of Nanzenji Temple. This historical aqueduct played an important role in bringing water from Lake Biwa to Kyoto. Note: The visit is limited to the temple grounds only. No other admissions or interior tours are included.

    1 hour Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by Club Tourism International Inc.

Tags

Overnight Tours
Multi-day Tours
Bus Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Car Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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