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A traditional Japanese castle with multiple tiers and black tiled roofs. 1
A red torii gate with autumn foliage in the background. 2
A traditional Japanese temple with a red roof, stone lanterns, and a gravel pathway. 3
A calm lake with clear blue water, surrounded by lush greenery and distant mountains under a bright blue sky. 4
A traditional Japanese temple with a red roof, a multi-tiered pagoda, and a forested hillside in the background. 5
By Travel Japan Together
Free cancellation available
Price is $638 per adult* *Get a lower price by selecting multiple adult tickets
See tickets

Features

  • Free cancellation available
  • 10h
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation

Overview

  • Explore the hidden gems of Shiga with an expert-guided tour. Start at the iconic Hikone Castle, a national treasure offering stunning views of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake. Stroll through the castle’s beautiful gardens and learn about its rich samurai history.

    Next, visit the ancient Enryaku-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled on Mount Hiei, where you can immerse yourself in centuries of Buddhist culture. Enjoy a peaceful walk along Lake Biwa’s shoreline or take a boat ride to discover its scenic beauty.

    Your guide will share local history and insights, providing an enriching experience of Shiga’s natural and cultural wonders. Public transportation will be used, with private vehicle options available upon request.

Activity location

  • Hikone Castle
    • 1-1 Konkicho,
    • 522-0061, Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • Kyoto City Hall
    • 488番地 Kamihonnōjimaechō
    • 604-8571, Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan

Check availability

10 hour with public transport

  • Earn $19.14
  • Activity duration is 10 hours10h
    10h
  • English

Duration: 10 hours

Language options: English
Starting time: 8:00AM
Price details
$319.02 x 2 Adults$638.04
Total
Price is $638.04
Until Sun, Oct 25

10 hour with Private Transport

  • Earn $26.80
  • Activity duration is 10 hours10h
    10h
  • English

Private Transport

Language options: English
Starting time: 8:00AM
Price details
$446.63 x 2 Adults$893.26
Total
Price is $893.26
Until Sun, Oct 25

What's included, what's not

  • Inclusions
    Private tour
  • Inclusions
    English-speaking guide
  • Exclusions
    Transportation fees
  • Exclusions
    Personal expenses
  • Exclusions
    Any entrance fees
  • Exclusions
    Food and drinks

Know before you book

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Activity itinerary

Hikone Castle

  • 2h
  • Admission ticket not included
A designated National Treasure, Hikone Castle is one of only five castles in Japan to survive the post-feudal era with its original main keep intact. Completed in 1622, it offers an authentic glimpse into samurai architecture. You will climb the famously steep wooden stairs (designed to slow down invaders) to reach the top floor, where you will be rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of Lake Biwa and the surrounding city. Keep an eye out for "Hikonyan," the castle's famous mascot!

Enryaku-ji Temple

  • 2h
  • Admission ticket not included
This UNESCO World Heritage site is the headquarters of the Tendai sect and is considered the "Mother of Japanese Buddhism," as many founders of other sects studied here. Sprawling across the sacred Mt. Hiei, the temple is divided into three main areas. We will visit the "Todo" (Eastern Pagoda) area, home to the Konpon Chudo (Main Hall). Here, the "Inextinguishable Dharma Light" has burned continuously for over 1,200 years. The spiritual atmosphere, combined with the misty mountain forest, provides a profound sense of tranquility.

Lake Biwa

  • 2h
As Japan's largest freshwater lake, Lake Biwa is often referred to as the "Mother Lake." It has been a vital water source and transport route for the region for centuries. At the lakeside in Otsu, you can experience the sheer scale of the water, which feels more like an ocean than a lake. We will stroll along the waterfront to enjoy the refreshing breeze and view the modern landscape of the Shiga prefecture blended with historic landmarks, such as the Ukimido (floating temple) or the great Torii gate, depending on the route.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    Hikone Castle
    • 1-1 Konkicho,
    • 522-0061, Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    Kyoto City Hall
    • 488番地 Kamihonnōjimaechō
    • 604-8571, Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan

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