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.
Shiga Prefecture is one of Japan's safest destinations for international travellers. Violent crime is extremely rare, and the lakeside towns of Otsu, Kusatsu, and Hikone are calm and low-crime even at night. Shiga has no major natural-hazard profile beyond standard Japan-wide earthquake and typhoon preparedness. The main practical safety considerations relate to Lake Biwa water activities and driving on rural mountain roads such as those on Mt. Ibuki.
Current safety advisory
Very Safe
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) in separate locations.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Use registered taxis or rideshare apps. Avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides.
Trust your instincts — if a situation feels wrong, remove yourself from it.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
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- Hospitals
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- Otsu Red Cross Hospital: 1-1-35 Nagara, Otsu, tel 077-522-4131. Shiga University of Medical Science Hospital: Seta Tsukinowa-cho, Otsu, tel 077-548-2111. Most have limited English capability; bring written notes of the condition.
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- Pharmacies
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- Matsumoto Kiyoshi and Sundrug pharmacies near Otsu and Kusatsu stations (typically open 10:00–21:00). Prescription medications require a Japanese prescription — bring a sufficient supply from home.
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- Tap water
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- Safe to drink throughout Shiga Prefecture. Municipal water is treated and meets WHO standards; Lake Biwa itself is the source for much of the surrounding region's drinking water.
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- Lake Biwa water conditions
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- Check local flags and lifeguard postings at swimming beaches such as Omi-Maiko before entering the water. Algae blooms can occur in late summer; avoid swimming in areas with visible green scum.
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- Heat and humidity
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- Shiga summers (June–August) reach 32–35°C (90–95°F) with high humidity. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and rest during the hottest hours (11:00–15:00), especially around the lake where UV reflection is strong.
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- Travel insurance
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- Japan does not provide free medical care to foreigners. Comprehensive travel insurance covering emergency medical evacuation is strongly recommended.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
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