Shiga Essentials

Shiga Prefecture is defined by Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake, and a landscape rich in feudal and spiritual history. The region features Hikone Castle, one of the few original Edo-period fortresses remaining, and the sprawling Enryaku-ji monastery complex on Mount Hiei. Cultural highlights include the I.M. Pei-designed Miho Museum, the Art Brut collections of Omihachiman, and the sacred shrines of Chikubu Island, offering a comprehensive look at Japanese architecture from the 8th century to the modern era.