Previously, when traveling from Osaka to Kyoto, my instinct was to take the train or JR. This time, with a 10-year-old child, the subway and train journeys alone were exhausting.
Trying a private car arrangement proved to be very advantageous:
Time-saving: Directly getting from our accommodation to our destination saved a significant amount of time.
Effortless: Luggage was handled, avoiding long walks and waiting times.
Worry-free: The itinerary was pre-arranged, ensuring we arrived on time without worrying about missing our trains; boarding and alighting times were flexible.
Cost-saving: Compared to day tour groups, our private car day trip was cheaper when split among the passengers.
On the day of the trip, Kyoto was hot. We didn't have to endure the heat at the station. When we arrived, we found it too hot outside, so we boarded the car early after visiting the sights. We quickly discussed it with the driver, and they quickly adjusted the itinerary to indoor activities, avoiding a forced outdoor activity in the sun. We finished shopping and returned to the hotel satisfied within the allotted time.
This experience was very satisfying.
Driver Chen was a friendly and polite person, and our conversation in the car was pleasant.
I was torn between Biwako Valley and Hakodateyama, but it seemed like the attractions at Biwako Valley were under maintenance, so I chose Hakodateyama. When you get off the gondola, you can use the mini pool with a slide, grass sledding, and lifts as many times as you like for free with this ticket! How generous! There were also paid attractions like an athletic course, a long grass sledding area, and buggies, but my kids enjoyed the athletic course the most. It's a pretty fun athletic course. My kids are not very athletic, so they were almost ready to give up 💦 The restaurant opened for business that day, and for a ski resort restaurant, the quality was high and the food was delicious. The prices were also reasonable. There were also many photogenic spots. I've been to Biwako Valley three times this year for skiing, but it's incredibly crowded, and the restaurants are too high-end, making it difficult for families with children. The number of people at Hakodateyama was just right. I'm sorry to say, but Hakodateyama wins. Also, all the staff were friendly and kind, which made me feel warm and fuzzy inside. Thank you very much.
The staff, Zhang Zhang, provided excellent service and had a great attitude. Highly recommended! We had a very pleasant and safe day. I suggest arranging their chartered car service again next time we visit.
Our Chinese-speaking driver, Shin Nakatani, was excellent and punctual. He arrived at the restaurant early to wait for us, and his driving was steady. My family all said the overall experience was fantastic! 👍
Our driver this time was Ah Hui, who was very friendly and punctual. When we left our child's watch at the hotel, Ah Hui was very helpful in contacting the hotel. Although it rained today and we couldn't visit many places, I believe this was the best arrangement so we can travel to Osaka again next time. Thank you! :)
Anonymous User
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Shiga Weather, Climate and Best Time to Visit
Data source:Meteostat Update date:2025-09
Shiga year round climate
Spring (March–May): Average -0.3–11.1°C, the climate changes from cold to mild. Temperatures begin to rise in March, but be aware of the temperature difference between morning and evening. Common activities: Cherry blossom viewing (depending on the cherry blossom variety and blooming time), enjoying nature, visiting shrines and temples. Recommended clothing: Warm coat, sweater, long pants, scarf.
Summer (June–August): Average 14.7–21.6°C, the climate is warm and humid, with relatively high rainfall, especially in August. Common activities: Lake activities, hiking (choose shaded routes), visiting attractions around Lake Biwa. Recommended clothing: Light and breathable clothing, rain gear, sun hat.
Autumn (September–November): Average 11.2–17.9°C, the climate is comfortable and pleasant, with a large temperature difference between morning and evening. Common activities: Maple leaf viewing (depending on the maple leaf variety and color change time), cycling, enjoying local cuisine. Recommended clothing: Light jacket, long-sleeved clothing, comfortable shoes.
Winter (December–February): Average -6.2–-0.3°C, the climate is cold and dry, with occasional snowfall. Common activities: Skiing (requires going to the mountains), hot springs, indoor activities. Recommended clothing: Heavy coat, warm clothing, hat, gloves, scarf.
Shiga climatological average
Annual average temperature: approx. 7°C / Annual rainfall: approx. 1050 mm / Summer humidity: 70%–80% / Rainiest month: August
Shiga monthly average temperature and precipitation
Month
Air temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
January
-6.2°C
75.8
February
-5.8°C
49
March
-0.3°C
58.6
April
6.6°C
57.3
May
11.1°C
70.2
June
14.7°C
108.7
July
19.8°C
95.6
August
21.6°C
172.6
September
17.9°C
120.8
October
11.2°C
111.4
November
4.5°C
69.7
December
-3.4°C
60.7
Shiga weather for the next seven days
8/4
Tuesday
Sunny
26.1°C/17°C
8/5
Wednesday
Sunny
26.9°C/17.5°C
8/6
Thursday
Sunny
25.4°C/18.1°C
8/7
Friday
Sunny
26.8°C/18.7°C
8/8
Saturday
Light rain shower
21.9°C/15.4°C
8/9
Sunday
Patchy rain nearby
15.7°C/15.3°C
8/10
Monday
Patchy rain nearby
16.1°C/15.2°C
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