Places to stop by

Biwaichi Bike

This is a base for cyclists who enjoy cycling around Lake Biwa. Please consult with us about anything from bicycle rental and pre-departure maintenance to route guidance and recommendations of recommended spots. Souvenirs to commemorate your cycling experience are available for purchase.

Ishiyama Temple

It is said that about 1,300 years ago, at the initiative of the Emperor of the time, Prince Shotoku, a prince famous for having established the laws of ancient Japan, enshrined Nyoirin Kannon, a Buddhist statue that he possessed for private worship, at this site. The main hall is built on a huge bedrock called siliceous stone, a national natural treasure, which gave the temple its name. (*ishi[ishi]=stone/yama[yama]=mountain) It is said that a woman named Murasaki Shikibu, the author of "The Tale of Genji," Japan's oldest novel, was inspired to write her story here, as it appears in many Japanese literature written more than 1,000 years ago. It is said that the temple view as we know it today was established about 800 years ago.

Mii Temple

It is said that this temple was built about 1,300 years ago to mourn the soul of Prince Otomo, who was defeated in a battle for the succession to the Imperial Throne. The temple is closely associated with Murasaki Shikibu and appears in her diary, Murasaki Shikibu Nikki (Murasaki Shikibu Diary). Many of her relatives also trained at this temple. On the grounds, visitors can experience "shabutsu" (copying Buddhist statues) and "kanezuki" (ringing the temple bell). The temple's bell, called Mitsui's Evening Bell, is famous as one of the eight scenic views of Omi (particularly picturesque views in the area; there are eight of them).

Itinerary

Summary

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