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Famous Sakura Spots in Shiga

Hikone Castle

Location 1-1 Konki-cho, Hikone City, Shiga
Features Surrounding the National Treasure keep, approximately 1,100 Yoshino cherry trees bloom along the moats and within the castle grounds. The sight of blossoms overhanging the water viewed from a traditional sightseeing boat, and the contrast between the white castle tower and the nighttime illumination, are of exquisite beauty.
Best Time Late March – Early April


Kaizu Osaki

Location Kaizu, Makino-cho, Takashima City, Shiga
Features One of the "Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan." On the northern shore of Lake Biwa, about 800 Yoshino cherry trees form a 4 km-long tunnel of blossoms. The scenery, set against the clear blue lake water and the distant Chikubu Island, is breathtaking. It is also known as a relatively late-blooming spot in the Kansai region.
Best Time Early April – Mid-April


Miidera Temple (Onjoji)

Location 246 Onjoji-cho, Otsu City, Shiga
Features About 1,000 cherry trees bloom across the vast grounds, including the stone steps leading to the Kannondo Hall and around the National Treasure Kondo Hall. The view from the Kannondo balcony is particularly stunning, offering a panoramic view of Otsu City and Lake Biwa through the blossoms. The nighttime illumination is among the largest in the prefecture.
Best Time Late March – Early April


Ishiyamadera Temple

Location 1-1-1 Ishiyamadera, Otsu City, Shiga
Features An ancient temple associated with Murasaki Shikibu (author of The Tale of Genji). Yoshino and weeping cherry trees decorate the grounds, home to the Natural Monument "Keikaiseki" (wollastonite) rocks. The beauty of the blossoms set against the Setagawa River has maintained its poetic charm since the Manyo era, making it perfect for those seeking a quiet hanami experience.
Best Time Late March – Early April


Nagahama Castle (Ho Park)

Location 1325 Koen-cho, Nagahama City, Shiga
Features One of the "Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan." Ho Park, located on the ruins of Nagahama Castle built by Hashiba Hideyoshi (Toyotomi Hideyoshi), contains about 600 Yoshino cherry trees. In addition to seeing the blossoms surrounding the castle keep (now a history museum), the open location along the shores of Lake Biwa is a major highlight.
Best Time Early April


Okubiwako Parkway

Location Nishiazai-cho, Nagahama City, Shiga
Features An 18.8 km driveway connecting Tsukide and Sugaura. About 3,000 cherry trees line the road, allowing visitors to enjoy the archipelago beauty of Lake Biwa and the blossoms simultaneously from their car windows. The view from the "Tsuzuraozaki Observatory" is magnificent, offering a dynamic experience of Lake Biwa in spring.
Best Time Early April – Mid-April


Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Location 5-1-1 Sakamoto, Otsu City, Shiga
Features The head shrine of all Sanno Shrines in Japan, located at the foot of Mt. Hiei. Cherry blossoms are scattered throughout the vast sacred grounds. The rows of trees along the approach and those near the Important Cultural Property "Omiya Bridge" harmonize with the solemn atmosphere of the shrine. Visitors can also enjoy strolling through the historic town of Sakamoto.
Best Time Early April


Zeze Castle Site Park

Location 7 Honmaru-cho, Otsu City, Shiga
Features The site of a "castle on the lake" built by Tokugawa Ieyasu. Today, the gate has been reconstructed and the area developed as a park. Because it protrudes into Lake Biwa, the rows of cherry trees reflecting on the water are very refreshing. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful spring moment while looking toward "Omi Fuji" (Mt. Mikami) on the opposite shore.
Best Time Late March – Early April


Hachiman-bori Moat

Location Around Miyauchi-cho, Omihachiman City, Shiga
Features A moat that supported the prosperity of the Omi merchants and a famous filming location for period dramas. Cherry blossoms bloom along white-walled storehouses and stone-paved paths. Viewing the trees from a traditional boat while traveling along the moat is full of historical charm, offering a slow-paced hanami experience unique to this riverside town.
Best Time Early April


Mishima Pond

Location Ikeshita, Maibara City, Shiga
Features A beautiful pond with Mt. Ibuki in the background. Surrounded by cherry blossoms, it is a popular spot where, in good weather, you can photograph the "Upside-down Ibuki" reflected in the water along with the sakura. The contrast between the lingering snow on the majestic Mt. Ibuki and the pink blossoms is a spectacular sight unique to this area.
Best Time Early April

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