2024 Takashima Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in December)

The Torii Gate of Shirahige Shrine on the Water

Walking all the way from the station, after turning a corner, the torii gate majestically stands on the lake. The torii gate on the water has always been a dreamy existence. It takes about an hour and a half to travel from Osaka to Omi-Takashima. Upon arrival, you can choose to take a taxi, ride a bicycle, or walk (I walked back and forth this time, which took about an hour). The bicycle rental fee is 500 yen per use. When heading from the station to Shirahige Shrine, it is recommended to walk on the right side. There is a sidewalk all the way. If you walk on the left side, there is a section without a sidewalk, which is quite dangerous! Additionally, if you happen to encounter rainy weather, even if it has just cleared up, be sure to prepare a raincoat. The place to take pictures of the torii gate is close to the road, and without a raincoat, you might get splashed all over by passing trucks. 😂 ⭐ When departing from Osaka, be aware that the train will split into two lines after arriving in Kyoto. Make sure you are in the car heading towards Omi-Takashima.

Metasequoia Tree-lined Avenue

The 2.5-kilometer-long Metasequoia Tree-lined Avenue is hailed as a hidden autumn foliage gem in Japan. The road stretches from Makino Highland to Makino Agricultural Park, with 500 tall and dense Metasequoia trees planted in orderly intervals along both sides. During the autumn foliage season, the trees transform into a tunnel of red and yellow leaves, creating an endless view of autumn colors. Whether driving through this vibrant universe or strolling along the road to admire and photograph the foliage, the sight of towering Metasequoia trees ablaze in orange-red hues is a breathtaking spectacle.

Delicious Tatami Restaurant

Unasyo is a Japanese restaurant located at Omi-Imazu station. The restaurant has limited seating, you have to take off your shoes if you sit on Tatami room. Smoking is allowed in the restaurant. The food is of high quality and very delicious with reasonable price. I highly recommend this restaurant if you visit Omi-Imazu. Restaurant: Unasyo Opening hours: Thursday to Tuesday 5:30pm-10:30pm Price: 3000-5000yen Location: Japan, 〒520-1631 Shiga, Takashima, Imazucho Nakoji, 1 Chome−３−10 Getting there: 5 mins walk from Omi-Imazu JR station #Omi-Imazu #biwakovalley #osaka

Cheap Price High Quality Restaurant

Omi Imazu is not considered a tourist area now, it's not easy to find a restaurant. I found this restaurant located just opposite Omi-Imazu station, with high quality Japanese food. The restaurant is spacious, mainly local visitors and non-smoking. They served a wide variety of food, from soup udon to Japanese set dinner, sushi, sashimi etc. Restaurant: Nishian Opening hours: Thursday to Tuesday 11:30am-2:00pm, 5:00pm-9:30pm Price: 500-2000yen Location: Japan, 〒520-1622 Shiga, Takashima, Imazucho Nakanuma, 1 Chome−１−1 Getting there: 1 min walk from Omi-Imazu JR station #omiimazu #biwakovalley #osaka

The Only Hotel with Public Bath

Hotel Kaito is the only hotel at Omi-Imazu station with public bath. The hotel is quite old but clean and tidy. The room is spacious, but with limited amenities. They provide towels and soap. You have to buy the amenities you need at the reception, such as toothbrush, razor etc. Hotel breakfast is nice, traditional Japanese style breakfast. The hotel is near to Biwako Lake, about 10 minutes walking distance. If you are looking for some attractions away from the city, visit Biwako Lake. Hotel Kaito Location: 1 Chome-６-10 Imazucho Nakoji, Takashima, Shiga 520-1631 Getting there: 1 minute walk from Omi-Imazu JR station Nearby Attraction: Biwako Lake #biwakovalley #osaka

🇯🇵 Hase-dera Temple

#tokyo Hase-dera Temple, also known as Hase-kannon Temple, is a Buddhist temple located in the city of Kamakura. The temple is known for its large wooden statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. We climbed up a set of stairs to a hilltop observation deck for views of the surrounding area. The view was really great. We felt very peaceful to be up there. The garden within the temple compound was also very pretty. #Japan

Kibune hike

#gohiking Kibune hike starts at the picturesque town and ends at the kurama temple. if you want a more challenging climb, start from kibune small town. the upslope are steeper and not as well structure stairs, bring walking sticks as that will help. it will take about 2-3h for a 2-3km hike, I will rate is as moderate for beginners as the stairs are really steep for prolonged period. there are railings along the way but you cannot really rely on them all the way as well. saw few walking groups, it is generally safe to hike as the police/community has identify certain spots as k1 k2 k3 in case you need to call for emergency help halfway. bring water and not food in case of bears.

Makino pick land

💞Reasons to Recommend: nice place

A Refreshing Drive Trip to Shirahige Shrine

A drive trip to Shirahige Shrine is perfect for a refreshing day. Under the clear blue sky, enjoying the lakeside scenery while leisurely driving with friends feels luxurious and peaceful. Upon arriving at the shrine, the torii gate standing as if floating on the lake is impressive, and the contrast between the blue sky and the lake is beautiful, prompting us to take many photos. The breeze is pleasant, making it a special place that helps you forget the busyness of daily life. The enjoyable chats with friends and the serene atmosphere of the shrine perfectly match, providing a soothing experience for both body and mind.

A Day Trip to Hakodateyama

🕰️Business Hours: Open daily from around 09:00 to 17:00. The ski season is from late December to mid-March. 📍Address: Hakodateyama is located at Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan. From Kyoto Station, take the JR Kosei Line to Omi-Takashima Station, then transfer to Bus No. 2. It takes about an hour to get there. 🏖️Environment/Facilities: Take an 8-minute cable car ride up the mountain. On Hakodateyama, there is a hilltop observatory and a giant Lake Biwa swing. There are also rainbow curtains and colorful wind chime paths made with Takashima shrink fabric, as well as a park where you can experience forest adventures. Various flowers are planted, making it a great spot for photo ops.

Check in at the oldest underwater Torii gate, Shirahige Shrine

Transportation: Take the JR from Kyoto to Omi-Takashima, then you can choose to walk, take a bus, or ride a bicycle to get there. Comparison: The bus requires waiting, and in a small place, the frequency of buses is sparse. If the timing of your arrival is not convenient, you may have to wait quite a while. It's about a 30-minute walk for 2 kilometers. Cycling takes only 11 minutes. Thoughtfully, the villagers responsible for the station have prepared cycling maps. There are probably about 5-6 bicycles here, and it's also okay to team up and cycle slowly together. Include the Shinkansen return time in your plan, and just make sure to stay within the appropriate time for a round trip. It's 500 yen per bicycle per day, and if you have enough time, I recommend slowing down to fully experience the Japanese countryside~ The rural environment in Japan is definitely world-class. Just so happened that two Japanese ladies also came here because of its fame, crossed the road to take pictures, and later when I saw there were few cars, I also went across. Since ancient times, Japan has had a legend that says 'Torii gates' are the gateways to the divine realm. Influenced by this legend, Shirahige Shrine has an added sense of mystery. It is solemn yet calm, and as beautiful as a fairyland. The vermilion Torii gate stands on Lake Biwa, where the 'movement' of the water complements the 'stillness' of the Torii, making the entire scene appear even more serene, attracting many tourists to travel great distances to visit. The underwater Torii gate of Shirahige Shrine has a history of 2000 years. Seeing it with your own eyes truly inspires awe.

Naruto Whirlpool, what an experience

When visiting Takushima, this is definitely a must go place. There is a boat in which you can take to get close the whirlpool. But do note that there are specific times each day in which the whirlpool is the strongest so plan accordingly. The boat ride takes roughly 30 minutes and you’ll get to see the whirlpool and surrounding area up close. The ride can get a little bumpy from the waves and prepare to get wet if you leave the interior area! #Whatanexperience #whirlpool #awesome

[Takashima, Shiga] Delicious BBQ with Omi beef🐮 and organic vegetables🪵 Glamping in Shiga

Introducing dinner at Soil small hotel & private glamping 🍖 ︎〰︎〰︎〰︎ 🐮Dinner menu ・Omi beef sirloin ・Omi beef rib ・Omi beef rib roast ・Milk pork ・Organic vegetables🥬 ・Clay pot rice🍚 ・Salad🥗 ・Cheesecake 〰︎〰︎〰︎ The meat was soft and the fat wasn't greasy at all It was really delicious🥺🧡 Is there not enough? I thought so, but the amount of food was just right, about 80% full, so I could also enjoy the cheesecake dessert 🧀 After the meal, I recommend watching a movie on the projector while sitting by a bonfire!!! I was watching Star Wars Ahsoka, which was just released on Disney+ 🎬 (It's fine to turn up the volume and watch it because the rooms are far from each other and you can hear the sound of the river flowing 🙆♀️) The front desk also sells fireworks, which were very comfortable in the cool autumn season. It's also fun to play hand-held fireworks after a long time 🤤 Soil offers a room-only option, but the food is also very delicious, so I personally recommend staying with two meals included!!! ——— 📍 Access to Soil small hotel & private glamping 🚗The address is not disclosed, so we will drive to the location you will be told after booking! Located in Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture ⛰️ ⁡ 🎟️Price From 52,800 yen for 2 people with 1 night and 2 meals (From 26,400 yen per person, according to the official website) ⁡ ⌛️Opening hours Check-in 15:00-18:00 Check-out ~10:00 ——— #Sakura2024 #FreeHongKongAirTicket #Glamping #ShigaTrip #OmiBeef #Dinner

Japan

Lake Biwa. Hello everyone, I am Xiaolu, today I am sharing Lake Biwa in Japan. Lake Biwa is located in Shiga Prefecture, Japan. It is the largest freshwater lake in Japan, with an area of 674 square kilometers and a shoreline of 241 kilometers. It is named after the natural shape of the traditional Japanese musical instrument Biwa. This geographical location is in the central part of Japan, surrounded by beautiful mountains and lush forests. The lake presents a beautiful arc shape, covering a huge area, like a lake ocean. Lake Biwa is considered one of the oldest lakes in the world, formed at least 4 million years ago. About this lake, there are not only many ancient legends and stories, but also a large number of art works related to it. Lake Biwa is famous for its biodiversity and has many endemic species, from fish, birds, to rare mollusks. To get to Lake Biwa from Kyoto, just take the JR Tokaido Line from Kyoto to Otsu, and you can reach this beautiful lake in 10 minutes. Next, we will introduce the main attractions of Lake Biwa. Ukimido Ukimido is one of the main scenic spots of Lake Biwa. It is also known as one of the Eight Views of Omi and is loved by many haiku poets, including the famous Matsuo Basho. The formal name of the temple is 'Kaimon Mountain Mangetsu Temple', which was built by the monk Gen Shin (Eshin Sozu) of Hieizan during the late Heian period (794-1185) to pray for the safety of the lake water and the peace of all people. Since then, for over 1000 years, Ukimido has been guarding the safety of this important lake traffic area. Chikubushima Chikubushima is a small island located in the northern part of Lake Biwa, but it has been revered as a sacred island since ancient times. There are Hogyoji Temple and Tsusumafu Asama Shrine. Tsusumafu Asama Shrine is very popular as a place of power, and there is a mysterious atmosphere in the Dragon God's place of worship, where there is a unique way of making wishes 'Kawarake Nage'. The view of Lake Biwa from the boat makes you linger. Kaizu Osaki Kaizu Osaki extends to Lake Biwa, and cherry trees stretch for more than 4 kilometers. In spring, the cherry blossoms bloom in full bloom, and rows of cherry trees stand on the vast lakeside. Kaizu Osaki stands with more than 600 cherry trees with lush branches and leaves, most of which have a history of more than 50 years. Under the contrast of rocks and the green water of Lake Biwa, the beauty of cherry blossoms is intoxicating. Cherry trees bloom all the way along the lakeside avenue, making people feel like they are wandering in a cherry blossom tunnel. If you want to enjoy the cherry blossom scenery, why not leisurely row on Lake Biwa. From the lake, you can see the spectacular cherry blossom beauty of Kaizu Osaki. Biwa Lake Valley Biwa Lake Valley overlooks the west bank of Lake Biwa. Since 1965, it has been a ski resort and an outdoor activity paradise in the off-season. This is the best ski resort near Kyoto. Biwa Lake Valley is 1,100 meters above sea level and has eight different ski trails. Half-pipe, curved track, cat track and sled snow track, there is also a ski park suitable for skiers of all levels. All equipment can be rented at the ski resort. The Zekkei Ropeway cable car here can accommodate 121 people, with glass on all sides, you can see the beautiful views of Lake Biwa, snow slopes and autumn leaves. Travel

Metasequoia Majesty: Nature's Elegance

#fallishere Location: Metasequoia Avenue Takashima City Agricultural Park Makino Pick land 835-1 Makinocho Terakubo, Takashima, Shiga 520-1834, Japan Metasequoia Avenue, situated in Takashima, Shiga, Japan, is renowned for its picturesque rows of Metasequoia glyptostroboides trees, creating a stunning canopy. Planted in 1953, this tree-lined avenue spans approximately two kilometers, attracting visitors with its vibrant foliage during autumn. The Metasequoia, also known as dawn redwood, is a deciduous conifer that adds to the area's natural beauty. Adjacent to Metasequoia Avenue is the Takashima City Agricultural Park Makino Pick land, located at 835-1 Makinocho Terakubo, Takashima. This park serves as a hub for agricultural activities, offering a hands-on experience for visitors to engage in fruit picking and appreciate the region's agricultural bounty. The idyllic setting and agricultural pursuits make it a popular destination, providing a harmonious blend of nature and local culture in the heart of Takashima. #trip #2023travel #2023trip #2023travelwish #2023旅行願望 #timetotravel #tripblazers #historical #heritage #takashima #japan

Savoring Joy: Ramen Daigaku Memories

#myfoodies Address - Ramen Daigaku 290-7 Adogawacho Nishiyurugi, Takashima, Shiga 520-1212, Japan Ambiance/Facilities/Highlights - Traditional Japanese Food and Restaurant Avg. Price per Person - 790¥ ++ Rating - Great taste In the quaint town of Takashima, Japan, my friend and I stumbled upon the hidden gem of Ramen Daigaku. Nestled at 290-7 Adogawacho Nishiyurugi, this charming eatery quickly became our go-to spot for soul-warming ramen. The aroma of rich broth and tantalizing spices greeted us as we entered, and the friendly host welcomed us with genuine warmth. Seated at a cozy corner table, we marveled at the menu, each dish promising a culinary journey. The first sip of the steaming ramen embraced our taste buds, leaving us enchanted by the perfect balance of flavors. Amidst slurps and laughter, the cozy ambiance and delightful company transformed a simple meal into a cherished memory. Ramen Daigaku became more than just a restaurant; it became a haven where friendship flourished over bowls of delectable noodles, creating a bond as enduring as the flavors that lingered on our palates. #trip #2023travel #2023trip #2023travelwish #2023旅行願望 #timetotravel #tripblazers #historical #heritage #deliciousfood #supportlocal

Wakasa's Sabamichi: History Unveiled

#fallishere Location: Sabamichi Museum 11-1-1 Kumagawa, Wakasa, Mikatakaminaka District, Fukui 919-1532, Japan The Sabamichi Museum, situated at Roadside Station Wakasa Kumagawajuku in Japan, offers a captivating journey through the region's rich history. Established to celebrate and preserve local heritage, the museum showcases artifacts and exhibits dating back centuries, providing visitors with insights into Wakasa's cultural evolution. From traditional crafts to historical documents, the Sabamichi Museum encapsulates the essence of the area. The museum's name, "Sabamichi," translates to "silk road," reflecting its role in connecting people to the historical trade routes that once passed through Wakasa. Beyond its exhibits, the museum serves as a cultural hub, fostering community engagement through events and workshops. As visitors explore this cultural treasure trove, they gain a deeper appreciation for Wakasa's past, making the Sabamichi Museum a must-visit destination for those seeking to connect with Japan's vibrant history. #trip #2023travel #2023trip #2023travelwish #2023旅行願望 #timetotravel #tripblazers #historical #heritage #fukui #japan

This year, my memories 📸 (photo album) of cherry blossoms 🌸 at Lake Biwa.

photo by me (original photo taken at Mount Fuji) 📍A hidden cherry blossom sanctuary on the shores of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, Japan. It is a several-kilometer-long cherry blossom embankment. 1/10 in bloom 🌸 3/10 in bloom 🌸 7/10 in bloom 🌸 Full bloom 🌸 Cherry blossom blizzard 🌸 All updated (check the homepage~).

Avenue of Metasequoias อุโมงค์สนแดง เมตาเซโคเอีย (Metasequoia) เมือง Takashima จังหวัด Shiga ช่วงปลายเดือนพฤศจิกายนถึงต้นเดือนธันวาคม ขับรถชิวๆชมต้นสนสีเหลืองทองริมสองฝั่งถนนยาวกว่า 2 km

Mt Hakodate Ropeway is a must have transport to travel up the observatory to view the surroundings,including the bay and city. Best time to visit when the sun set so can see both the actual and night view 15 minutes uphill walk from Jujigai Station, Hakodate City Tram -Route 2 or Route 5. From the bottom of the hill, it took around 10 min or less to reach the summit with a distance around 780m. Note that the view in the Ropeway is also fascinating. . #bucketlistreboot

Drive from Hikone Castle through the Biwa Bridge and come to Takashima City Shiraishi Shrine, one of the eight scenic spots in the Omi, a shrine that is relatively unpopular due to inconvenient transportation. Everyone mainly looks at the big bird house on the water in Lake Biwa! The shrine itself is a bit old, but if you want to see the torii, you must cross the road, but this is a road where everyone is driving at high speed, no traffic lights. There is no zebra crossing, the vehicle has been whizzing past, so in the past must be careful. In the evening, I sat on the ladder and watched the sun slowly fall from the big bird in the water. Of course, all of this is just my personal strong imagination, because the clouds are a bit thick at sunset today, seriously affecting the color and transparency of the lake.

When I come to Japan, I should at least see the cherry blossoms. Even if I am alone, I have to go. Of course, with other partners, it was still unpleasant. Finally, everyone went together and arrived at the destination. It was really worth it. Haijin Osaki Sakura Avenue: Kyoto Station - JR Lake West Line - Makino Cranes (Special attention, trains may go back at any time, as long as you hear a bunch of Japanese broadcasts, the trainers exchange, you must get off If you want to transfer to the same station or go to other stations to transfer, remember your direction of the wilderness.) We have transferred in Zhihe, Omi, and Omi-jinjin. Pure Japanese broadcast, without any electronic screen, almost completely abandoned. Departing at 9:30 in the morning, we arrived only around 2:30. rushing all the way, finally arrived at the Makino crane - Haijin Osaki. When you are out of the station, be sure to rent a bicycle. It takes at least half an hour to walk, super far. The bicycle is 500 yen once, which is equivalent to 30 yuan a day. It can be said that I saw the cheapest transportation in Japan. Riding a bicycle, chasing cherry blossoms, feeling of youth, coming back.