Shiga Prefecture surrounds Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake, just a short train ride east of Kyoto. Landlocked and often overlooked by international visitors, it pairs the UNESCO-listed temple complex of Enryaku-ji on Mt. Hiei with the National Treasure castle at Hikone, Edo-era merchant towns, Shigaraki pottery villages, and some of Japan's finest wagyu in Omi beef.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Lake Biwa Museum
Hands-on natural history museum covering Lake Biwa's ecosystem, with a large aquarium zone, touch pools, and interactive exhibits designed for children. Address: 1091 Oroshimo-cho, Kusatsu, Shiga 525-0001. Hours: 9:30–17:00, closed Mondays. Admission: ¥800 adults, free for children under high-school age.
Biwako Valley
Ropeway ride up Mt. Uchimi with panoramic Lake Biwa views; in summer the mountaintop hosts an adventure park with ziplines, trampolines, and a lawn play area for children. Address: Shigasato, Otsu, Shiga 520-0244.
Omi-Maiko Beach
Popular family swimming beach on Lake Biwa's western shore with shallow entry areas, lifeguard-monitored zones in summer, and nearby rental shops for swim gear and umbrellas.
Hikone Castle
Original Edo-period castle keep that children can climb through via steep wooden stairs; the prefecture's mascot character Hikonyan performs at scheduled times daily, a highlight for young children. Address: 1-1 Konkicho, Hikone, Shiga 522-0061.
Michigan Lake Biwa Cruise
Paddle-wheel boat cruise departing from Otsu Port with an open deck for lake views; some sailings include live music and a play area below deck.
Shigaraki Pottery-Making Classes
Hands-on pottery workshops in the historic ceramics town of Shigaraki, where children can shape and paint their own tanuki figurine or bowl to take home or have shipped after firing.
Miho Museum
Architecturally striking museum reached via a tunnel and suspension bridge through a forested valley — the approach walk and building design hold appeal for children even before viewing the collection inside.
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Biwako Otsu Prince Hotel
Large lakeside hotel with family rooms, an indoor pool, and easy access to Otsu Port cruises. ¥12,000–20,000 ($76–126) per night.
Hotel Route Inn Kusatsu
Budget-friendly business hotel with family rooms and free breakfast, convenient for visiting Lake Biwa Museum and JR stations. ¥8,000–13,000 ($50–82) per night.
Hotel Ohmi Hachiman
Comfortable mid-range hotel near Omi-Hachiman's canal district, a good base for exploring smaller lakeside towns with children. ¥9,000–15,000 ($57–95) per night.
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Family restaurant chains such as Joyfull and Gusto (multiple locations near Otsu and Kusatsu stations) have dedicated kids' menus, high chairs, and long opening hours
Omi beef restaurants in Otsu and Hikone often offer a lighter, less expensive gyudon (beef bowl) option that is easier for children than a full steak course
Convenience stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart) near every station stock a wide range of quick meals, snacks, and drinks suitable for families
Lakeside cafes around Otsu Port and Omi-Maiko Beach commonly offer outdoor seating, useful for families travelling with strollers or restless toddlers
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Build downtime into every day — over-scheduled kids melt down faster than tired adults.
Carry snacks, water, and a small first-aid kit at all times.
Many attractions offer discounted family tickets — ask at the ticket window.