Shiga Prefecture, inland prefecture centered on Lake Biwa (Japan's largest lake), represents region with rich historical culture adjacent to Kyoto and Nara. While having no World Heritage sites, it possesses numerous national treasure buildings and important cultural properties, beloved for beautiful natural scenery known as "Omi Hakkei" (Eight Views of Omi).

Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake covering approximately 670 square kilometers with about 235-kilometer circumference, serves as important water source for Kansai region. Lake transportation developed, with Lake Biwa Steamship cruises as popular tourist attractions. Particularly, boat trips to Chikubushima represent beloved island shrine pilgrimages.

Enryakuji Temple, Tendai Buddhism head temple on Mount Hiei, was founded by Saicho in 788. Konpon Chudo (main hall), Daikodo (great lecture hall), and bell tower are designated national treasures, with "eternal dharma light" burning continuously for over 1,200 years. Called mother mountain of Japanese Buddhism, it produced numerous famous monks including Honen, Shinran, Eisai, Dogen, and Nichiren.

Onjoji Temple (Miidera), Tendai Jimon sect head temple, has golden hall designated as national treasure. Precincts house numerous cultural properties, particularly Kannon Hall's Lake Biwa views renowned as spectacular scenery. "Mii Evening Bell" beloved as one of Omi Hakkei, with New Year's Eve bell tones calming people's hearts.

Ishiyamadera Temple, where Murasaki Shikibu allegedly wrote "Tale of Genji," has main hall and treasure pagoda designated as national treasures. Main hall built on natural monument wollastonite (Ishiyamadera wollastonite) creates distinctive landscapes. Autumn colors are particularly beautiful, with illuminated nighttime visits popular.

Hikone Castle, one of 12 existing keeps, has keep, attached turrets, and connecting turrets designated as national treasures. This hirayama (hill-plain) castle built over approximately 20 years from 1603 flourished as Ii family 350,000-koku residence castle throughout Edo period. Particularly, the keep's beautiful form is beloved as one of "four national treasure castles".

Azuchi Castle ruins, remains of castle built by Oda Nobunaga, preserve partial stone walls. Built 1576-1579, this castle represents first tenshu (castle tower) architecture example, greatly influencing later castle architecture. Currently maintained as Azuchi Castle Site Park for reminiscing period times.

Omi Hakkei represents eight scenic spots around Lake Biwa, beloved and celebrated since Muromachi period. Eight scenes - Ishiyama autumn moon, Seta evening glow, Awazu clear storm, Yabashi returning sails, Mii evening bell, Karasaki night rain, Katata falling geese, and Hira evening snow - express different seasonal and temporal beauty.

Shiga Prefecture's food culture prominently features nationally famous Omi beef. With over 400 years history, Omi beef ranks among Japan's three great wagyu alongside Kobe and Matsusaka beef, known for tender meat quality and deep flavors. Funa-zushi, blessed by Lake Biwa and representing Shiga's signature local cuisine, offers distinctive flavors through fermentation.

Lake Biwa Hassen represents eight species of lake-endemic fish and shellfish (Biwa trout, round crucian carp, Ischikauichthys steenackeri, Gnathopogon caerulescens, Gymnogobius isaza, gobies, sweetfish, and Corbicula sandai), each enjoyed through distinctive cooking methods. Particularly, Biwa trout, called "Lake Biwa jewel" for beautiful appearance, can be enjoyed as sashimi or salt-grilled.

Shigaraki ware, pottery made in Shigaraki town, Koka City, counts among Japan's six ancient kilns. Particularly famous for raccoon dog figurines, it's also highly valued as tea ceramics, beloved by numerous potters and enthusiasts. Wide-ranging products from daily items like hibachi braziers and umbrella stands to artworks are created.