Shiga Biwako Day Tour: MIHO MUSEUM, Kyu-Chikurin-in Garden (or Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine) & Shirahige Shrine | Departing from Osaka/Kyoto
- Visit the MIHO Museum, designed by I.M. Pei. It is a harmonious blend of architecture and nature, and a must-see for art and design lovers
- Experience the mystical charm of Shirahige Shrine, known as the “floating shrine of Japan,” where the torii gate stands beautifully in the water, stunning in every season
- Explore the Former Chikurin-in Temple, featuring a traditional kare-sansui (dry landscape) garden and immerse into Edo-period aesthetics and tranquility
- Depart from Osaka or Kyoto with ease, this one-day journey unveils Shiga's cultural treasures and breathtaking natural scenery
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point, Hotel transfer |
| Minimum participant requirement | 4 travelers |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, Temples & shrines |
| Transport | Bus tour |
Product Info
The content of this product is provided by machine translation and may not reflect the actual information, please take this into consideration before booking.
—Introduction to attractions—
- MIHO Museum: Pei’s Paradise
MIHO Museum of Art was designed by the famous architect Mr. I.M. Pei, based on the concept of "Peach Blossom Spring". It is far away from the city. The most special thing is that 80% of the building is buried in the mountains. In summer, the forests are lush and the mountain roads are long. In winter, the mountain is closed due to heavy snow. The collection includes artworks from ancient civilizations such as Japan, China, South Asia, Central Asia, West Asia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome. ※Opening date official website http://www.miho.or.jp/calendar/ Permanent exhibition ticket: 1100 yen; special exhibition ticket 1300 yen. Lunch recommendation (please pay for it yourself) There are restaurants and cafes in the museum, please feel free to choose your own meals.
*Museum Closure Dates:
October 6, 14, 20, 27, 2025; November 4, 10, 17, 25, 2025; ecember 8, 2025; December 15–31, 2025; January 1–March 13, 2026; June 8–July 3, 2026; September 1–25, 2026; December 7–31, 2026;
Regular Monthly Closures: Closed every Monday.
- Former Chikurin-in Temple
The national designated scenic garden where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of different seasons was once the retreat of the monks on Mount Hiei. Recommended by Japanese photographers, the layout of the attic in the courtyard is the same as that of Rurikoin, and you can take the same mirror reflection, and there is no interruption and no time limit, so you can slowly find the perfect angle. The courtyard is covered with moss, and each season has its own characteristics. You can enjoy the courtyard landscaping while tasting the perfect taste of matcha, or you can walk through the exquisitely arranged mountain stream stone steps and experience the Zen in the Japanese courtyard. Tickets are self-paid: 330 yen; tasting matcha + Japanese confectionery in the courtyard: 400 yen.
＊Go to Taisha Shrine when the Former Chikurin-in Temple is closed (on Mondays, the day after a holiday, and 12/26-12/31) Mount Hiei Taisha Shrine: The head shrine of more than 3,800 Hie, Hiyoshi, and Sanno Shrines in Japan, "Hieyoshi Taisha Shrine" uses monkeys as messengers of God.
- Lake Biwa Shirasu Shrine Water Torii
Lake Biwa is a freshwater lake in the mountainous area of central and western Japan, close to Kyoto. It is a symbol of Japan, a national park and the largest lake. It is a designated lake under the Law on Special Measures for the Preservation of Lake and Marsh Water Quality in Japan and is listed in the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands as an internationally important wetland. Like Mount Fuji, Lake Biwa is regarded by the Japanese as a symbol of Japan and is affectionately called the "Lake of Life".
- Shinsaibashi
Osaka's most famous shopping street is home to large department stores, chain drugstores, old brand stores, and small shops. There are all kinds of goods of all grades and styles, and Hello Kitty and Disney stores are also here. This is also a gathering place for drugstores, and most stores are equipped with Chinese-speaking staff, so you can easily enjoy shopping.
- Dotonbori
Whether it is day or night, this street never rests. As the birthplace of Osaka's food culture, Dotonbori has many delicious snacks such as octopus balls, Okonomiyaki, and Jinlong ramen, as well as traditional Japanese izakayas and various restaurants, such as the popular Kani Doraku.
Other day trip recommendations:
—Important Notes—
- Each person can bring one piece of luggage for free, with no size limit. The excess will be charged 2,000 yen per piece (please note when registering).
- Children aged 0-2 years old can ride for free without occupying a seat; please inform us in advance when registering; children aged 3 years old and above ride the same as adults.
- Small groups of 1-13 people will have driver who also serves as the guide. For bus groups of 14-45 people there will be a driver and a guide. The arrangement will be made according to the number of participants in the group on the day.
- Reference vehicle types: 5-8 seater: Toyota Alphard or equivalent. 9-14 seater: Toyota HAICE or equivalent. 18-22 seater: mini bus. 22 seater or more: large bus. The above vehicles are for reference only and will be adjusted according to the number of people in the group on the day.
Visiting the Miho Museum is like a journey of discovery into a paradise, with breathtakingly beautiful scenery at every turn.
LV once moved its "2018 Cruise Collection Launch" to the Miho Museum, and during cherry blossom season, there is a stunning cherry blossom tunnel.
The entire art museum is cleverly integrated into the natural mountain forest, with over 80% of the building structure hidden underground. The entrance corridor seems to lead to a paradise, and the architecture is inspired by the story of "The Peach Blossom Spring." The museum has a rich collection, covering ancient Eastern art (Chinese, Japanese, Egyptian, and Silk Road artifacts) to Western artifacts, making it a cultural journey across time and space.
The floating torii gates of Shirahige Shrine stand quietly in Lake Biwa, presenting different views and attracting countless photography enthusiasts.
Built around 1900 years ago, Shirahige Shrine is the oldest shrine in Omi Province and has been selected as one of the elements of Japan's heritage stories. The scenery here is captivating, with Okinawa Island rising above the horizon as a backdrop, and fishing boats gliding between torii gates on the lake, creating a particularly beautiful view.
Kyushurin-in Temple: Recommended by Japanese photographers, the layout of the attic inside is the same as that of Rurikoin Temple, where you can take pictures of mirror reflections.
Stroll through the exquisitely arranged mountain stream and stone steps, and experience the Zen spirit within the Japanese garden.
Purchase Notice
【Travel conditions】
- Travel origin and destination: Osaka and Shiga
- Travel days: Round trip
- Transportation: Chartered bus
- Bus company name: Reisei Tourism Industry Co., Ltd., etc
- Meals: Breakfast 0 times Lunch 0 times Dinner 0 times
- Accommodation facilities: None
- Minimum number of people in a group: 4
- Team Leader: 1
【Travel planning/implementation】
- Operating company name: TuYi Group Japan Co., Ltd.
- Address: 722 Shuzenji, Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture
- License Number: Shizuoka Prefectural Governor Registered Travel Agency, No. 2-633
- Travel Agency Association: Regular Member of the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)
Reminders
A minimum of 4 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 18:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Please arrive at the designated location 15 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
This is an international group tour, where you will travel with other passengers. The tour will only stop at designated stations and will not provide temporary boarding or alighting services.
Elderly individuals, those with hypertension, heart disease or other cardiovascular diseases, and pregnant women are advised to have family members accompany them.
Please be sure to assemble at the designated time and place on time. Being late or not arriving will be considered as automatically forfeiting the trip and no refund will be given.
Depending on the number of participants in the group that day, a driver may also serve as the tour guide, or the driver and tour guide may share the service. Small groups and bus configurations will be flexibly adjusted.
The tour guide will primarily be in Chinese or English, and basic multilingual communication assistance will be provided as needed.
The types of vehicles to be selected will be arranged according to the number of passengers, including Toyota Alphard, HIACE, minibuses and large buses, etc., subject to the actual arrangements on the day.
The actual itinerary may be adjusted due to weather, traffic, or other force majeure factors, including the duration, order, or cancellation of visits to attractions. No refunds or additional compensation will be provided for delays or changes caused by the above reasons; please allow sufficient time if you have other arrangements for the day.
The time allotted at each attraction has been arranged. Please cooperate with the tour guide's time management. During peak season, the itinerary order may be adjusted due to traffic congestion.
To maintain a clean vehicle interior, please do not eat strongly scented foods inside the vehicle. Cleaning fees will be charged according to local standards for any resulting stains.
If you leave the group midway, it will be considered as a waiver of subsequent services. No refund will be given for the unused portion, and you will be responsible for your own safety during the period.
FAQ
The MIHO Museum, designed by the renowned architect I.M. Pei, is a harmonious blend of architecture and nature, often referred to as a hidden art sanctuary. It features a stunning design that integrates seamlessly into the surrounding mountains, accessed via an impressive tunnel and suspension bridge. Visitors can explore diverse collections of ancient art from various civilizations, presented in a serene and thoughtfully designed environment that enhances the appreciation of both art and natural beauty.
The MIHO Museum typically observes closure days, often on Mondays, and may have extended closures during specific periods like winter or for exhibition changes. Its operating hours generally run from late morning to late afternoon. As schedules can vary seasonally and for special events, visitors are advised to verify the latest schedule and specific closure dates to ensure a smooth visit.
For a comprehensive and enjoyable visit to the MIHO Museum, it is generally recommended to allocate approximately 2 to 3 hours. This duration allows ample time to appreciate the museum's unique architecture, including the scenic tunnel and bridge approach, explore its diverse art collections, and take in the serene natural surroundings. The pace can be adjusted based on individual interest in the exhibits.
The MIHO Museum's architectural concept, spearheaded by I.M. Pei, is centered on a vision of paradise and harmony between nature and human creation. Over 80% of the building is built underground, allowing it to blend into the mountain landscape. The journey to the museum through a tunnel and suspension bridge symbolizes a transition from the everyday world to a secluded, spiritual realm, reflecting the founder's vision of an artistic utopia.
Mt. Hiei Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine is one of Japan's oldest and most significant shrines, with a history spanning over 1,000 years. It serves as the head shrine of Hie Shintoism, overseeing numerous Hiyoshi shrines across Japan. Located at the foot of sacred Mt. Hiei, it has long been revered as the guardian shrine of Kyoto and features unique architectural styles and extensive grounds encompassing over 40 subsidiary shrines.
Shirahige Shrine is renowned for its iconic torii gate standing majestically in the waters of Lake Biwa, earning it the nickname 'the floating shrine of Japan.' This picturesque scene, especially beautiful at dawn or dusk, offers a mystical charm in every season. As an ancient shrine, it is also known for its spiritual atmosphere and connection to longevity and matchmaking, drawing visitors for both its scenic beauty and cultural significance.
At the Former Chikurin-in Temple, visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquility of a meticulously maintained traditional kare-sansui (dry landscape) garden. This garden, characteristic of Edo-period aesthetics, features raked gravel, rocks, and carefully placed vegetation to evoke natural landscapes. It provides a peaceful retreat where one can appreciate traditional Japanese garden design, history, and serene beauty.
A Shiga Lake Biwa day tour unveils a rich tapestry of cultural treasures and breathtaking natural scenery. Highlights often include the architectural marvel and art collections of the MIHO Museum, the mystical floating torii gate of Shirahige Shrine on Lake Biwa, the ancient history and spiritual significance of Mt. Hiei Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine, and the serene Edo-period dry landscape garden of the Former Chikurin-in Temple. The tour offers a diverse experience showcasing Shiga's unique charm.
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