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Dec. 2018

Experience the New Year’s Eve bells in Shiga

A Buddhist ritual involving the ringing of the temple bell 108 times is an annual event which is performed on the New Year’s Eve, and there are numerous temples in Shiga too where the bells ring out during the middle of the night on December 31st. The following is an introduction to the temples were the public can also participate in the bell ringing. Hieizan Enryakuji https://www.hieizan.or.jp/ Tickets to ring the bell are distributed from 21:30, given to those who purchase an auspicious arrow (\1000). Ishiyamadera https://www.ishiyamadera.or.jp/ Gate opens at 00:00, and after the ringing by the monks the public may continue to ring the bell, in order of arrival, from 2:00. Stops at 108 rings. Admission to the temple is free for Jan 1 - 3. Enman-in https://enman-inn.com/en/ The bell is rung from 23:45. \100 is required for sweet sake. Saikyo-ji http://saikyoji.org/publics/index/19/ The bell is rung from 23:45, starting with the monks.
Dec. 2018

Recommended Hatsumode Spots in Shiga

At the start of a brand new year, why not make your traditional Hatsumode (first shrine visit) in Shiga? Here’s an introduction to some of our top picks to visit! Shirahige-jinja Shrine Visits for Hatsumode can be performed at any time. The shrine shop (selling protective amulets and other items) is open from 0:00 - 17:00 on Jan 1, and 8:00 - 17:00 on Jan 2 - 5. https://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/306 Omi Jingu Shrine Protective amulets and other items are available from 0:00 until around 18:00 on Jan 1 and 9:00 - 17:00 from Jan 2 onward, with the New Year’s lottery held between Jan 1 - 3 and sweet sake on offer until Jan 5. https://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/78 Tachiki-kannon Temple Reception is open all day Dec 31, right up until 22:00 on Jan 1. On Jan 2 it is open 6:00 - 21:00, and then 6:00 - 20:00 on Jan 3. https://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/66 You can find out about other Hatsumode spots here: https://en.biwako-visitors.jp/news/detail/605
Dec. 2018

Hatsumode on Chikubushima Island

Lake Biwa is the largest lake in Japan and rising on it is the spiritual power-spot of Chikubushima Island. How about welcoming the new year by making your first visit to this Shinto shrine (a tradition called “Hatsumode” in Japanese) a uniquely special one? Omi Marine “Chikubushima Island - Hatsumode Ship” Operating period: Jan 1 (Mon / holiday) - Jan 6 (Sun) 2019 Operating hours: Ship 1 / Departs Hikone Port 9:30 - Chikubushima (arrives 10:10 / departs 11:20) - arrives Hikone Port 12:00 Ship 2 / Departs Hikone Port 12:30 - Chikubushima (arrives 13:10 / departs 14:20) - arrives Hikone Port 15:00 Charges: Adult \2,900 Child \1,450 *Includes “beckoning cat” merchandise *Separate shrine admission fees of \400 for adults and \300 for children are required on Chikubushima For more about Chikubushima Island: https://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/2472
Nov. 2018

Enjoy the Changing of the Leaves in Shiga! (1)

Many people enjoy the changing of the leaves during fall in Japan, and Shiga Prefecture has many spots famous for their crimson foliage. Numerous events, including illuminations, are also held during this period. Come to Shiga to see the leaves! Hieizan Enryakuji - The Maple of Hiei Until November 25 The leaves at Yokogawa are said to be particularly special, even for Mt. Hiei, and a variety of events are held here. https://www.hieizan.or.jp/ Hiyoshitaisha Maple Festival November 1 - 30, 2018 As well as illuminations of the leaves during this period, there are also performances for Noh and Kyogen theater and a chrysanthemum exhibition. http://hiyoshitaisha.jp/ Kotosanzan Original Goshuin Paper Special Goshuin stamped paper can be purchased for \500 until December 2018. http://www.kotousanzan.jp/
Nov. 2018

Enjoy the Changing of the Leaves in Shiga! (2)

Keisokuji From November 10 - November 27, \200 charge during the changing leaves period An old temple originally opened in 735, with the Sando (path leading to the temple) dazzling in crimson during the changing of the leaves, making it a popular spot to take photos. http://kitabiwako.jp/spot/spot_967/ Ishiyamadera - Atarayo Maple The maple at Ishiyamadera are best viewed from mid-November. You can also enjoy illusory illuminations. From November 16 - December 2, 2018. https://www.ishiyamadera.or.jp/ Konansanzan - Divine Favor Wooden Plaque Tour Konansanzan is a spot renowned for its crimson foliage among those in the know, and also offers special wooden plaques with Goshuin stamp. The Goshuin stamp costs \2500 (which includes admission fee). http://www.burari-konan.jp/ Hikone City - Genkyuen Garden Illuminations 18:00 - 21:00, From November 17 - December 2, 2018. During this period, Hikonyan will make an appearance on November 17, 21, and December 2. http://www.hikoneshi.com/jp/event/articles/c/kinshu
Nov. 2018

Try Funazushi!

Fermented food products are said to be good for your health, and perhaps the ultimate example is Shiga Prefecture’s unique Funazushi. Funazushi is made from the Nigoro-buna fish, also known as the “round crucian carp”, which is only found in Lake Biwa. Combined with rice, it is then fermented, and is also said to be the origin of sushi. It was created as a way to preserve fish in a time before refrigerators existed, and seems to be eaten during the Heian period (794 - 1185). Although some people don’t like its unique smell, it can be enjoyed accompanied with some Japanese sake, just like blue cheese! List to stores where funazushi can be purchased: Sakamotoya https://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/47 Hisagozushi https://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/174 A video from Only in Japan “This is Funazushi!”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EI5Jv5PCctA
Nov. 2018

Try Funazushi!

Fermented food products are said to be good for your health, and perhaps the ultimate example is Shiga Prefecture’s unique Funazushi. Funazushi is made from the Nigoro-buna fish, also known as the “round crucian carp”, which is only found in Lake Biwa. Combined with rice, it is then fermented, and is also said to be the origin of sushi. It was created as a way to preserve fish in a time before refrigerators existed, and seems to be eaten during the Heian period (794 - 1185). Although some people don’t like its unique smell, it can be enjoyed accompanied with some Japanese sake, just like blue cheese! List to stores where funazushi can be purchased: Sakamotoya https://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/47 Hisagozushi https://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/174 A video from Only in Japan “This is Funazushi!”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EI5Jv5PCctA
Nov. 2018

Konan Sanzan

Jorakuji Temple, Chojyuji Temple and Zensuiji Temple, the three long-standing Tendai Sect temples in Konan City, are collectively known as the "Konan Sanzan." All three temples date back to the Nara period (710-794). Here you can enjoy wonderful seasonal scenery that is especially brilliant during the changing of the leaves in fall. 【Jorakuji Temple】 While taking a stroll along a path overlooking the grounds, enjoy the sight of the buildings and towers beautifully decorated with crimson leaves. OPEN：9:00 - 16:00 (*Reservation required outside of fall leaves period) FEE：500yen WEBSITE：http://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/126 【Chojyuji Temple】 As the leaves change along the 200m path from the gates to the National Treasure main temple, it creates nothing less than a stunning tunnel of fall colors. OPEN：9:00 - 16:00 (*Reservation required outside of fall leaves period) FEE：500yen WEBSITE：http://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/128 【Zensuiji Temple】 Enjoy rare fall foliage against the backdrop of the National Treasure main temple. The maples near the bell tower are called "seven color crimson leaves," with the leaves changing in beautiful gradated colors. OPEN：9:00 - 16:00 FEE：500yen WEBSITE：http://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/127
Nov. 2018

Koto Sanzan

Saimyoji Temple, Kongourinji Temple and Hyakusaiji Temple stand on the east side of Lake Biwa in Shiga. Together these three Tendai Sect temples are called the "Koto Sanzan," and each of them is a famous and historic site of more than 1000 years. Inside the grounds you can enjoy Buddhist architecture and famous gardens that fully impart the Japanese beauty aesthetic, while also taking in stunning seasonal scenery. Fall is particularly impressive, selected as one of the top 100 places in Japan for viewing of the fall leaves, and the temples always throng with visitors at this time of year. ■Saimyoji Temple 【Admission Charges】Adults \500 / Junior High School Students \300 / Elementary School Students \100 【Admission Times】8:00 - 17:00 【URL】http://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/221 ■Kongourinji Temple 【Admission Charges】Adults \500 / Junior High School Students \300 / Elementary School Students \100 【Admission Times】8:30 - 17:00 【URL】http://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/205 ■Hyakusaiji Temple 【Admission Charges】Adults \500 / Junior High School Students \300 / Elementary School Students \100 【Admission Times】8:00 - 17:00 【URL】http://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/182
Oct. 2018

Seeking entries for the Kawarake-nage (ceramic plates throwing) Championship

Chikubushima island is famous for its powerful spiritual energy. It is said that if you can throw kawarake (ceramic plates) from here to pass through the torii gate jutting out into Lake Biwa, your wish will come true. That just might be the case, if your wish is to win some fabulous prizes, because the Kawarake Throwing Championship is now looking for participants! Date: November 18 (Sun) 2018 10:00 - 15:00 Participation fees: Foreigners may enter for free under certain conditions (must post the events of the day to social media) Japanese people may enter for \3000. This includes boat passage, lunch, and entry to the island. Applications: Nagahama Tourism Association Tel: +81-749-65-6521 Mail: kankou@city.nagahama.shiga.jp
Oct. 2018

Enjoy the long fall nights in Shiga

Shiga Prefecture has plenty of night events to let you enjoy the longer nights of the fall! Omi Taga “Kami Akari” From sunset until 21:00 Mystical illuminations will light up Taga Taisha Shrine until November 30, 2018. https://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/234 Moon Watching Evenings 18:00 - 21:00 Relax and simply enjoy the passage of time in the Genkyu Rakurakuen garden, taking in the view of Hikone Castle and the beautiful moon. https://en.biwako-visitors.jp/spot/detail/217
Oct. 2018

Lodgings in Shiga temples! Become a monk for one night

So-called “monk’s quarters” are popular lodging facilities found in Japanese temples, allowing you to stay the night and experience what it is like to train as a monk, and such temples offering lodgings to the general public can also be found in Shiga. While spending the night, you can practice Zen meditation, copy scripture, and eat the same vegetarian food as the monks, resulting in an experience that’s healthy and spiritual for both body and mind! Hieizan Enryakuji Kaikan http://syukubo.jp/ (Japanese only) Stay at the World Heritage site of Hieizan Enryakuji! Miidera https://terahaku.jp/en_miideraonjoji/ The lodgings here take the form of a single building rented to one group per day, making it perfect for families or groups. Enman-in https://enman-inn.com/en/ While staying at the lodgings here, you can also experience Japanese culture such as the tea ceremony etc. Saikyo-ji http://saikyoji.org/publics/index/19/ Shares facilities with the Youth Hostel Saikyoji (http://www.jyh.or.jp/e/i.php?jyhno=5108)

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