Half Day in Omihachiman, Shiga
Venturing into the heart of Shiga prefecture to reconnect with an old friend became an exploration of both natural beauty and historical richness.
Shiga, renowned for hosting Japan's largest lake, Biwako (Lake Biwa), offers a vibrant side of lake activities like jet skiing, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, and mesmerizing fireworks displays in summer. However, beneath its recreational facade lies a prefecture steeped in history.
My journey unfolded with the intention of reuniting with friends while seizing the opportunity to discover a hidden gem, La Colina, nestled in the quaint Omihachiman. And I have to say Omihachiman was worth visiting! Here are things to do in Omihachiman, Shiga prefecture in Japan.
What to Do
Access to Omihachiman, Shiga
La Collina
Omihachiman Town Stroll
1.How to Get to Omihachiman from Kyoto
Embarking on this adventure was surprisingly convenient.
A quick 35-minute ride on the JR Tokaido Biwako line from Kyoto Station transported us to the heart of Omihachiman. Exiting from the north side of Omihachiman station, we hopped onto a bus at Terminal 6, then 10-minute ride to Kitanosho, La Colina stop. As the bus glided through the scenic landscape, anticipation mounted for the unique experience that awaited.
2.La Collina is a Fusion of Nature and Architecture, and more
Upon arriving, La Colina greeted us with an architectural marvel designed by Terunobu Fujimori.
The first sight to captivate my senses was the roof adorned with lush lawns, resembling a gentle hill. This masterpiece was conceived as a haven for communal gatherings, seamlessly blending people with nature.
The main attractions at La Colina included Taneya, a Wagashi, Japanese confectionery shop crafting seasonal delights such as Manju (bean paste filling in wheat flour shell), Monaka (red bean paste sandwiched in thin crisp wafers), and Yokan (red bean jelly).
Meanwhile, Club Harie, a western-style confectionery shop, flaunted its fame for the exquisite baumkuchen cake. The fragrance of freshly baked cakes wafted through the air, enticing visitors to indulge in a delightful culinary experience.
Exploring the outdoor area proved to be a fascinating journey for my curious child.
The structured landscape featured intriguing elements, with my kid gleefully exploring miniature doors and passageways. The whimsical atmosphere encouraged playfulness and a deeper connection with nature.
3.Omihachiman Town Stroll
Opting for a leisurely walk back to Omihachiman station, I embarked on a historical exploration by Hachiman-bori.
Hachiman-bori moats stretch for about 3 miles, forming a man-made canal through the city of Omihachiman to Lake Biwa.
Constructed in the late 16th century, these moats were originally built to safeguard the castle of that era. Over time, they evolved into a vital relay base for transporting goods via water to other cities.
As I pushed a stroller with my napping child and navigated the charming streets with Google Maps in hand, I uncovered a fraction of Hachiman-bori's historical significance. Regrettably, inadequate research limited my sightseeing, leaving me yearning for a more profound understanding of the area's past.
This locale is also renowned for Omi beef, adding a savory layer to its historical charm.
Lastly:
Despite my oversight, the experience was a delightful blend of cultural immersion, architectural wonders, and tantalizing confectionery delights, creating memories that lingered long after the journey concluded.
