Funaso: A Luxurious Inn Run by a Fourth-Generation Fisherman

[Approximately 1 Hour from Kyoto Station]

Nestled along the serene northern shores of Lake Biwa in Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture, Funaso is an extraordinary inn run by a fourth-generation fisherman. This unique establishment combines the tradition of lake fishing with the art of fine dining, offering guests an immersive experience of Shiga’s rich cultural and culinary heritage.

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An Inn with a Fisherman’s Legacy

Funaso is located in the Onoue district of Nagahama City, an area deeply connected to Lake Biwa. The Matsuda family, who run the inn, are one of only three remaining fishing families in the region. As the first inn in Shiga Prefecture to specialize in lake fish cuisine, Funaso pioneers a new way of showcasing Lake Biwa’s unique food culture.

The inn’s exclusive accommodations cater to just two groups per day, ensuring a tranquil and personalized experience. Guest rooms, named “Chikubushima” and “Tsuzurao,” are designed with expansive windows that frame breathtaking views of Lake Biwa. Guests can marvel at the “Onoue Sunset,” one of Japan’s top 100 sunsets, from the comfort of their rooms.

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A Culinary Celebration of Lake Biwa

Funaso’s dining experience highlights the diverse flavors of Lake Biwa’s aquatic bounty. The menu features endemic species such as “Biwa-masu” (Lake Biwa trout), “Nigoro-buna,” and “Honmoroko.” The “Biwa-masu,” known as the “jewel of Lake Biwa,” is celebrated for its delicate flavor and melt-in-the-mouth texture.

Signature dishes include fermented “funazushi” (crucian carp sushi), candied Nigoro-buna, and soy-simmered shrimp. Each dish is a testament to the skill of owner Yuuki Matsuda, who expertly combines fresh catches with refined culinary techniques to create unforgettable meals.

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A Fisherman-Chef’s Passion

Owner Yuuki Matsuda is not only a skilled fisherman but also a trained chef. After studying at a culinary school and gaining experience at a kaiseki restaurant in Kyoto, Matsuda returned to his roots as a fisherman. Now, as the fourth-generation head of his family’s fishing business, he merges his expertise in fishing and cooking to offer guests a truly unique experience. Matsuda’s vision is to share Shiga’s lake fish culture with visitors from around the world.

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Plan Your Visit

Funaso is located at 313-7 Onoue, Kohoku-cho, Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture. For reservations and inquiries, please call 0749-79-1008. As the inn is operated by a working fisherman, reservations are essential to ensure availability.

Experience the tranquil beauty of Lake Biwa, savor freshly caught and artfully prepared lake fish, and immerse yourself in the rich fishing traditions of Shiga Prefecture at Funaso.