Just east of Kyoto, Shiga Prefecture packs a punch with authentic Japanese experiences away from the usual tourist crowds. The standout tours here cut straight to the heart of local culture. I’m especially impressed by the sake brewery tours, where you’ll witness centuries-old brewing techniques and taste premium sake straight from the source. The guided bicycle tours through rice paddies and small villages offer a refreshing look at rural Japan that most visitors miss.
For history buffs, the ninja heritage tours in Koka are a real treat, complete with visits to authentic ninja houses and demonstrations of ancient techniques. The traditional craft workshops – where you can try your hand at making traditional Japanese paper or ceramics – give you a genuine hands-on experience.
What makes these tours work so well is their small group sizes and excellent English-speaking guides. Most tours offer flexible cancellation policies, and many include local lunch spots you’d never find on your own.
Let’s explore the best tours Shiga has to offer.
Good To Know
- Kinomoto Private Half-Day Sake and Soy Sauce Breweries Tour offers behind-the-scenes access and tastings at two sake and one soy sauce brewery in Shiga Prefecture.
- Backroads Exploring Japan’s Rural Life & Nature: Half-Day Bike Tour in Maibara provides a beginner-friendly cycling experience with 100% traveler satisfaction.
- Hikone Bike Half-Day Tour Through a Castle Town allows visitors to explore the historic Hikone Castle town near Kyoto and Osaka.
- Nakasendo Historical Town and Hidden Craft Village Walking Tour in Shiga showcases the Nakasendo Trail and a hidden craft village with a locally-sourced bento lunch.
- Ninja Hometown Electric Biking Private Tour Near Kyoto offers a 5-7 hour exploration of a renowned ninja hometown, including the Mochizuki Twin Castles and Ninja House.
Kinomoto Private Half-Day Sake and Soy Sauce Breweries Tour – Shiga Prefecture
Though located just a short train ride from Maibara Station, Kinomoto’s traditional sake and soy sauce breweries offer visitors a chance to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Shiga Prefecture.
This private half-day tour allows for an intimate exploration of three specialty producers, including behind-the-scenes access and complimentary tastings. Guests will first visit two sake breweries, learning about the intricate process before sampling the refined flavors.
They’ll then tour a soy sauce brewery, gaining insight into this integral Japanese seasoning. In between, the tour includes a visit to a local temple, providing a well-rounded cultural experience.
With a professional guide leading the way, this personalized excursion ensures travelers receive a unique perspective on Kinomoto’s artisanal industries. Priced from $98.15 per person, the tour is accessible to most and boasts rave reviews, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive glimpse into Shiga’s culinary traditions.
Read our full review: Kinomoto Private Half-Day Sake and Soy Sauce Breweries Tour – Shiga Prefecture Review
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Backroads Exploring Japan’s Rural Life & Nature: Half-Day Bike Tour Near Kyoto
For those seeking a unique glimpse into Japan’s rural landscapes and traditional way of life, the Backroads Exploring Japan’s Rural Life & Nature: Half-Day Bike Tour Near Kyoto offers an immersive experience.
This beginner-friendly 9-mile cycling tour departs from Maibara Station and is led by an English-speaking professional guide. Travelers can expect to visit Saienji Temple, Iwaya Zenkodo Temple, and a natural spring, while also passing through scenic agricultural areas.
The tour comes highly recommended, with a 100% traveler satisfaction rate based on 10 reviews. Included amenities like complimentary refreshments and the option to extend the visit to nearby attractions like Lake Biwa or Hikone Castle make this a well-rounded offering.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires moderate physical fitness, the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance provides flexibility.
Read our full review: Backroads Exploring Japan’s Rural Life & Nature: Half-Day Bike Tour Near Kyoto Review
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Hikone Bike Half-Day Tour Through a Castle Town Near Kyoto, Osaka
This Hikone Bike Half-Day Tour provides an engaging exploration of Hikone, a historic castle town situated near the popular destinations of Kyoto and Osaka.
The tour offers a private, half-day experience, with a start time of 9:00 AM. Participants will have the use of a bicycle, as well as admission fees included for each stop and activity. While snacks are provided, food and drinks are at the customer’s expense.
The meeting point is Hikone Station, and pickup service is available within a specified area for an additional 25,000 yen. Alternatively, riders can opt for an additional 20,000 yen transfer from Kyoto to Hikone and back.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnancy, or heart conditions. A moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
The tour has a rating of 5.0 based on a single review, and a lowest price guarantee is offered, with a reserve now and pay later option.
Read our full review: Hikone Bike Half-Day Tour Through a Castle Town Near Kyoto, Osaka Review
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Nakasendo Historical Town and Hidden Craft Village Walking Tour
Exploring the historic Nakasendo Trail and a hidden craft village, this walking tour in Shiga Prefecture offers an engaging glimpse into Japan’s past.
Departing from JR Maibara Station, the tour takes travelers on a journey through the region’s well-preserved historical town and artisan workshops.
Along the way, a bilingual guide provides insights into the area’s rich cultural heritage. Travelers will enjoy a locally-sourced ryotei bento lunch and light refreshments as they enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
The tour covers the key sights, including the Nakasendo Trail, a vital 17th-century road network connecting Kyoto and Tokyo.
With a maximum of 12 participants, the tour ensures a personalized experience. However, it’s important to note that the moderate physical fitness required may not suit all travelers.
Plus, the non-refundable policy means participants must plan their schedule carefully.
Read our full review: Nakasendo Historical Town and Hidden Craft Village Walking Tour Review
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Ninja Hometown Electric Biking Private Tour Near Kyoto
Venturing beyond the historic Nakasendo Trail, this private electric biking tour in Shiga Prefecture invites travelers to uncover the secrets of a renowned ninja hometown near Kyoto.
The 5-7 hour excursion allows guests to explore by electric bike, visiting the Mochizuki Twin Castles and a traditional Japanese house along the way. Highlights include an entrance to the Ninja House and a Japanese name tag souvenir.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, coffee, bottled water, and lunch. Participants must meet the minimum height requirement of 140 cm and be able to ride a bicycle, though the electric assistance makes the journey more accessible.
While not wheelchair-friendly, the tour is located near public transportation, with travelers meeting at Kōnan Station, about an hour from Kyoto.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on verified reviews, this immersive experience provides an excellent opportunity to discover Shiga Prefecture’s ninja heritage.
Read our full review: Ninja Hometown Electric Biking Private Tour Near Kyoto Review
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The Best of Kyoto – Half Day Private Tour
Travelers seeking a captivating introduction to Kyoto’s renowned cultural heritage can embark on this half-day private tour, which showcases two of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
The tour begins at Kyoto Station, where a knowledgeable guide will meet the group and escort them to the stunning Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its impressive wooden structure and sweeping views of the city.
Afterward, the group can opt to visit the Sanju-sangendo, a temple renowned for its impressive collection of 1,001 statues of the Buddhist deity Kannon.
Throughout the tour, the guide will provide insightful commentary, sharing the history and significance of these revered sites.
The tour also includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and a delicious lunch, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this private tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn about Kyoto’s rich cultural tapestry.
Read our full review: The Best of Kyoto – Half Day Private Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Shiga Prefecture offers a variety of engaging tours that showcase its rich cultural heritage, culinary delights, and natural beauty. From sake and soy sauce brewery visits to bike tours through historic castle towns and electric biking adventures, there’s something for every traveler. These immersive experiences provide an authentic glimpse into Japan’s rural life and traditions, making them must-do activities for anyone exploring the region.