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This is a driving course that heads north along the so-called "Sazanami Kaido" that runs north and south along the east coast of Lake Biwa, taking in the natural scenery of the lakeside and the rural landscapes of the north of the lake. Along the way, you will stop by the atmospheric Omihachiman, Chomyoji Temple overlooking the lake, and Hikone Castle, a national treasure. You can also enjoy a lunch of Omi beef and shopping at the much-talked-about outlet mall.
Distance: Approximately 77km one way, Travel time: Approximately 2 hours one way
This is a driving course that heads north along the so-called "Sazanami Kaido" that runs north and south along the east coast of Lake Biwa, taking in the natural scenery of the lakeside and the rural landscapes of the north of the lake. Along the way, you will stop by the atmospheric Omihachiman, Chomyoji Temple overlooking the lake, and Hikone Castle, a national treasure. You can also enjoy a lunch of Omi beef and shopping at the much-talked-about outlet mall.
The area around Otsu Station is dotted with many sights worth seeing, including Enryaku-ji Temple, Omi Shrine, and Bishamonten.
Orix Rent-A-Car and Eki Rent-A-Car are located within a 10-minute walk from the station. Most are open from 8:00 to 20:00. Depending on the store, you can choose from a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to regular cars and wagons.
Search for rental cars departing from Otsu Station
This popular outlet mall is easily accessible and has about 230 stores, making it one of the largest in the Kinki region.
You can enjoy shopping to your heart's content in a resort-like atmosphere surrounded by the lush nature of Ryuo Town.
This is an old town on the eastern shore of Lake Biwa, a beautiful water town. The mansions and storehouses of merchants from the past remain in areas such as Hachimanbori and Shinmachi Street, which have been designated as important preservation districts for groups of traditional buildings by the national government, and are often used as a filming location for period dramas.
This is a long-established butcher shop founded in 1947. You can enjoy the finest Omi beef, which is carefully selected from superior Tajima-type cattle and raised from breeding to fattening on our own ranch in the naturally rich Hino town of Shiga prefecture.
It is said that Takeuchi no Sukune, who served as a minister during the reign of the Emperor, prayed for longevity on this mountain and his prayers were answered, and many worshippers come here hoping to receive the blessing of longevity. The three-story pagoda, goma hall, and bell tower have been designated as important cultural properties by the nation and are well worth seeing.
This castle was the residence of the Ii clan of the former Hikone Domain, which produced many senior councilors. The existing castle tower, along with the attached turret and the Tamon turret, are designated as national treasures, and it is one of Japan's four national treasure castles. The area around the castle is also designated as a special national historic site.
Click here for car rentals in Shiga Prefecture
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