【Just 1 hour from Kyoto Station by train】 In the northwestern corner of Lake Biwa, where a series of capes reach out into the water, a ryotei sits quietly at the edge of the water.Open the door, and there is nothing before you but the lake.This is Korian. Eating Lake Biwa — The Fermented Culture of Funazushi Korian traces its roots to Uoji, a...
【Just 1 hour 20 minutes from Kyoto Station by train and boat】 Off the northern shore of Lake Biwa, a small island rises from the water.No one lives there. There is only an ancient temple, a shrine, and the silence they keep.For centuries, people have set out by boat toward this island — to pray, to seek, to be still.This is Chikubushima. An Island...
【Just 50 Minutes from Kyoto by Train】 While modern cities have moved away from nature, Harie has preserved a way of life deeply connected to the land and water. Visitors from around the world are drawn to this rare harmony, where clear streams reflect traditional wooden houses and the gentle sound of running water creates an atmosphere of pure tranquillity. Living with Water: The...
[Just 1 Hour from Kyoto Station by Rental Car] In Japan, dragons have long been revered as deities of water, guardians of rivers, lakes, and rain. Nestled along the shores of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake, Fujigasaki Ryujin Shrine pays homage to these mythical creatures. Known as a hidden gem and a spiritual power spot, this serene location offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s...
[Just 35 Minutes from Kyoto Station] Step off the train at Omihachiman Station, and you’ll find yourself in a town imbued with the architectural legacy of William Merrell Vories. This American architect, educator, and entrepreneur arrived in Japan in the early 20th century, leaving behind a remarkable collection of Western-style buildings that remain cherished by the local community to this day. Vories’s work is...
[Just 50 Minutes from Kyoto Station] Nestled in the heart of Shiga Prefecture, Hikone Castle stands as a remarkable symbol of Japan’s feudal history. Built in 1603, shortly after the era depicted in the global hit drama “SHOGUN” (set in 1600), this castle was originally constructed as a “fortress for war” by the Tokugawa shogunate to ensure peace across the land. Today, Hikone Castle...
[Just 20 Minutes from Kyoto Station] Japan’s longest cable car, spanning an impressive 2,025 meters, awaits you in Shiga Prefecture, right next to Kyoto. Hop aboard the “Sakamoto Cable” and embark on a journey that seamlessly connects you to Mount Hiei and even Kyoto itself. Let us guide you through the unique charm of this cable car, where the ride itself becomes an unforgettable...
[Just 15 Minutes from Kyoto Station] Nestled within the serene grounds of Omi Jingu Shrine in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, Jingu Saryo offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in traditional Japanese culture while enjoying delightful, gluten-free confections. しがトコ A Café Steeped in History Established in a building with over 80 years of history, Jingu Saryo has been thoughtfully renovated to preserve its...
[Just Over an Hour from Kyoto Station] While the famous “SHOGUN” era unfolded in 1600, just 17 years earlier in 1583, one of Japan’s most pivotal battles took place—the Battle of Shizugatake. This historic clash between two legendary samurai forces shaped the course of the country’s history. Today, you can visit this iconic site, easily accessible by a scenic lift ride that brings the...