Ultimate Shiga Travel Guide 2026: 4 Must-Visit Spots Near Kyoto — UNESCO Temples, Cherry Blossoms & Hidden Gems

 

Ultimate Shiga Travel Guide 2026: 4 Must-Visit Spots Near Kyoto — UNESCO Temples, Cherry Blossoms & Hidden Gems

Just a stone's throw from Kyoto lies Shiga Prefecture — Japan's best-kept secret, home to the country's largest lake, Biwa, and a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes, ancient temples, and unforgettable experiences. If you're tired of overcrowded tourist spots, Shiga is where Japan reveals its quieter, more authentic side.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through four of the most stunning destinations in Shiga: the dreamlike Metasequoia Avenue, the UNESCO-listed Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei, the world-class cherry blossoms of Kaizu Osaki, and the family-friendly Makino Pick Land agricultural park.

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🌲 1. Metasequoia Avenue — A 2.4km Tree-Lined Wonder of All Seasons

Located in Makino Town, Takashima City, the Metasequoia Avenue is a perfectly straight, 2.4km road flanked by approximately 500 majestic dawn redwood trees.

 Originally planted in 1981 as part of a children's agricultural park project, this avenue has been selected as one of Japan's "100 Best Tree-Lined Streets". Biwako Kisen

Why it's a must-see: Each season transforms the avenue completely. 

Spring brings tender green buds; summer offers a lush emerald tunnel; autumn (late November to early December) paints the trees in glorious yellow, orange, and brick-red hues; and winter dresses everything in pure white snow. TRAVEL JAPAN 47

Getting there:

• Train: 6 minutes by bus from JR Makino Station
• Car: ~80 min from Kyoto-Higashi IC; ~30 min from Kinomoto IC
• Parking: Free parking at Makino Pick Land

Pro tip: Arrive before 8 AM during autumn weekends to avoid heavy traffic and crowds. Rental bicycles are available at JR Makino Station.

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⛩️ 2. Mount Hiei Enryakuji Temple — 1,200 Years of Spiritual Heritage

Enryakuji is the head temple of the Tendai sect of Buddhism, founded in 788 by the monk Saicho. With over 1,200 years of history, it was registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. About 90% of Mount Hiei lies within Shiga Prefecture, and Enryakuji is actually the collective name for around 100 halls and pagodas scattered across the mountain. Keihan Hotels & ResortsGOOD LUCK TRIP

The Three Pagoda Areas:

• Todo (East Pagoda): The spiritual heart, home to Konpon Chudo (a National Treasure) and the legendary "Eternal Dharma Light" — a flame that has burned uninterrupted for 1,200 years.
• Saito (West Pagoda): Quiet and atmospheric, with the oldest building (Shakado) and the unique "Ninai-do" twin halls connected by a corridor.
• Yokawa: The deepest and most secluded area, considered the birthplace of Japanese omikuji fortune slips.

Important note: Konpon Chudo is currently undergoing major restoration (until 2027). Visitors can climb a special "study stage" to see the National Treasure restoration up close — a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Yuyu-west

Access:

• Train: Sakamoto Cable Car from Sakamoto-Hieizanguchi Station
• Car: Hieizan Driveway from Otsu IC
• Admission: ¥1,000 (3-area pass)

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🌸 3. Kaizu Osaki — One of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots

Kaizu Osaki, located in Makino, Takashima City, features about 800 magnificent Yoshino cherry trees stretching along 4km of Lake Biwa's northern shore, earning its place among Japan's "Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots". The peak bloom typically occurs in early to mid-April — slightly later than other Kansai spots. Biwako Kisen

What makes it special: Designated as one of the "Eight Views of Lake Biwa," the dramatic contrast between rocky shoreline, turquoise water, distant Chikubu Island, and pink cherry blossoms creates a truly breathtaking landscape. You can enjoy the view by car, on foot along the lakeside path, or even by sightseeing boat for an unforgettable on-water perspective. Biwako Kisen

Avoiding crowds: Arrive at dawn before traffic restrictions kick in at 9 AM — this is the local secret to a peaceful hanami experience. biwacommon

Access:

• From JR Makino Station via Takashima City community bus
• Shuttle buses operate during the cherry blossom season

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🍒 4. Makino Pick Land — Family Fun at Shiga's Best Fruit-Picking Park

Adjacent to the famous Metasequoia Avenue, Makino Pick Land is a 60-hectare agricultural park where families can enjoy seasonal fruit picking from May through November. You can harvest cherries (late May to mid-June), blueberries (mid-June to early September), grapes (early August to mid-September), chestnuts and sweet potatoes (mid-September to late October), and apples (early October to late November). Iko-Yo

Highlights:

• Handmade Italian gelato using on-site fruit
• Direct-sale stand for local vegetables and specialties
• Restaurant featuring Omi regional cuisine
• Free parking — perfect base for exploring Metasequoia Avenue

Access:

• Train: 6 min by bus from JR Makino Station
• Admission: Free (fruit picking charged separately)

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✨ Final Thoughts

Shiga's Takashima area and Mount Hiei offer everything you could want from a Japan trip — UNESCO heritage, four-season beauty, and authentic local flavors — all just an hour from Kyoto. Skip the crowds and discover the real magic of Japan's hidden heartland.