Brave the waters aboard the newest sightseeing ship in the Kansai region – Naomasa! Sightseeing ship Naomasa started its operations in March 2017. Managed by Ohmi Marine, the ship embarks on the Chikubu Island Cruise which takes its passengers to Chikubu Island. This island is located in the northern part of Lake Biwa and is…

Lake Biwa is home to 595 animal species and 491 plant species and a good share of them are native to the lake. Some of these endemic species have been named as part of the eight delicacies that represent the unique tastes of the area. Have a taste of the eight rare delicacies of Lake…

One of the oldest lakes in the world and the largest lake in Japan, Lake Biwa (琵琶湖) possesses a long and rich history. While it is known for the many tourist spots and resorts that surround it, there are also three festivals that should not be missed when visiting the lake. Let’s find out more…

Lake Biwa (琵琶湖), also known as Biwako, is the largest freshwater lake in Japan. With its long history, it is sometimes called the “Mother Lake.” Lake Biwa offers spectacular sights and activities that you can enjoy in daytime or at nighttime. Since summer in Japan is coming up, beat the heat by surrounding yourself with…

Lake Biwa (琵琶湖) is the largest freshwater lake in Japan in terms of area and water volume. Located in Shiga Prefecture (滋賀県) in the Kinki region (近畿地方), looking at this lake is almost like looking at the ocean as it is so large you cannot see the other side. If you want to witness the…

When we travel, we are always looking straight ahead at the sights, shops and people around us. But have you ever thought to take a look down at the ground? Don’t miss the unexpected works of art you can stumble upon in the form of unique Japanese manhole covers! Here is an introduction to three…

What is Omi Jingu (近江神宮) like? It’s a fiery place that burns with the passion of every Karuta player who has played in a competition. Discover the charms of Omi Jingu, the Holy Land of Karuta! Omi Jingu is a shrine in Otsu City (大津市), Shiga Prefecture (滋賀県). It is located at the foot of…

One of the perfect places to relax at is located in the middle of Japan. The prefecture of Shiga (滋賀県) is where you can find Lake Biwa (琵琶湖), the largest lake in the country. Shiga is a mountainous place as it is surrounded by Mt. Ibuki (伊吹山) to the east, Mt. Hira-san (比良山) and Mt.…

If you are a fan of Japanese architecture and looking for some exciting castles to explore, this article is for you. In Japan, there are a lot of castles built on mountains, plains, lakes, hills, etc. The kings and lords built these castles depending on their personal interests, military strategy, and location. A lake castle…

Japan has a lot of canals that are being used for inland transportation and irrigation. There are two types of canals: one used for transportation or waterways, and the other for irrigation or water supply. They also attract many tourists. Here are 6 picturesque canals one should travel through in Japan. 1. Otaru-unga Otaru canal…