Nara & Shiga Day Trip, Japan | Lake Biwa's Four Seasons Scenery, Omihachiman Baumkuchen Shop, Todai-ji Temple & Nara Park (Departing from Osaka)
- Cherry blossom viewing at Hikone Castle, cruise on Lake Biwa on the Michigan Ferry, autumn foliage viewing at Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei, and snow play in the valleys of Lake Biwa.
- Experience the different scenery of Lake Biwa in all four seasons
- Easily visit the latest must-see spots in Shiga.
- Visit the historic Todai-ji Temple
- Interact with the deer in Nara Park and experience feeding them.
- Includes attraction admission ticket; no additional payment required.
Package Options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Minimum participant requirement | 6 travelers |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Family-friendly | Free for children under 2 (no seat) |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights |
| 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.
ーItinerary Informationー
07:40 Meet in front of Kani Doraku Dotonbori Higashi branch
08:00Depart from the front of Kani Doraku Dotonbori Higashi branch
===Seasonal limited itineraries (approximately 60-80 minutes) ===
[Spring Limited Tour｜Late March to Mid-April] Cherry Blossom Viewing at Hikone Castle
[Summer Limited Tour｜Mid-April to the End of October] Take the Lake Biwa Steamship Michigan 60
[Autumn Limited Tour｜Mid-November to Early December] Fall Foliage Viewing at Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei
[Winter Limited Tour｜Late December to Late March] Biwako Valley Snow Play Tour
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Lunch (about 60 minutes)
La Collina Omihachiman (about 60 minutes)
Nara Todaiji Temple～Nara Park (stay for 50-60 minutes)
18:00-19:00 Shinsaibashi
※The above itinerary may be adjusted due to season, weather or road conditions on the day, please be aware.
Michigan Cruises - [Summer Limited-Time Itinerary] Enjoy a scenic cruise on the Michigan, a light and easy cruise ship, to explore the South Lake. Onboard, enjoy lively music, performances, and a variety of delicious dishes, from light meals and buffets to gourmet set meals. Additionally, you can visit the Michigan's uppermost sky deck for breathtaking views of Lake Biwa.
Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei - [Autumn Limited-Time Itinerary] Mount Hiei, towering on the border of Shiga and Kyoto prefectures, has been revered by the Japanese since ancient times as a mountain believed to be inhabited by deities. At the summit sits Enryaku-ji Temple, a World Heritage Site with a history spanning 1,200 years. Below the mountain lies the magnificent Lake Biwa, Japan's oldest and largest lake, and a famous spot for viewing autumn foliage.
Biwako Valley - [Winter Limited-Time Offer] Amidst the boundless snowscape of Biwako Valley, you can experience a variety of skiing activities and enjoy stunning views from the Biwako Terrace. This place is perfect for adults and children alike to enjoy activities, walks, snacks, and amusement park rides, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural highland environment. Feel the eternity of nature as the seasons change, and experience a truly relaxing and special time only here.
Hikone Castle - [Spring Limited Time Offer] Hikone Castle, surrounded by a double moat, has almost completely preserved its original ancient castle appearance, comparable to world-renowned castles like Himeji Castle. Especially beautiful is Hikone Castle reflected in the moonlight, listed as one of the Eight Views of Lake Biwa and one of the top three cherry blossom viewing spots in Shiga Prefecture! When the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the white castle tower and cherry blossoms complement each other beautifully, creating a breathtaking scene.
Lunch: Authentic Japanese cuisine ※【Note】The meal pictures are for reference only. The pictures are schematic diagrams. The actual plating and meal contents are subject to the on-site provision. The content of the meal on that day may change due to the daily purchase of ingredients. The ingredients provided on that day are the main ones. The meal content cannot be specified. Please understand.
Shiga Prefecture's newest must-visit spot - La collina Omihachiman, whose name originally means "small hill" in Italian.
Todai-ji Temple in Nara is a masterpiece representing the golden age of Buddhism in the Nara period and is the largest existing wooden structure in the world. Because it was built as a Kokubun-ji (national temple), it became a place of worship for praying for peace and prosperity for all people. At the same time, Todai-ji also served the purpose of researching Buddhist doctrines and training monks, establishing research institutes (schools) for six schools of Buddhism during the Nara period, including Kegon, and later adding the Tendai and Shingon schools from the Heian period, making it a temple of learning encompassing eight schools.
Nara Park, located at the foot of Mount Wakakusa in Nara City, is home to many of Nara's famous historical sites, including Todai-ji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine, making it a must-see for any visitor to Nara. Wakakusa itself, near the park, offers stunning panoramic views of Nara and hosts traditional events such as the "Wakakusa Burning Mountain" festival every January. A leisurely stroll through the park is the best way to experience it, as it boasts the largest concentration of deer and offering a spectacular viewpoint for feeding them. The deer are considered highly intelligent and divine, approaching visitors with deer crackers – a perfect opportunity to take photos with these adorable animals.
Purchase Notice
[Tourism Conditions]
Travel departure point and destination: Osaka and Shiga
Trip duration: Day trip
Transportation: Chartered bus
Bus Company Name: Tianxiang International Co., Ltd.
Meals: Breakfast 0 times, Lunch 0 times, Dinner 0 times
Accommodation facilities: None
Minimum group size: 6
Team Leader: 1
Tour guide: 0
[Travel Planning/Implementation]
Operating Company Name: Shuzenji Takitei Co., Ltd.
Address: 722 Shuzenji, Ishi City, Shizuoka Prefecture
License Number: Shizuoka Prefecture Governor's Registered Travel Agency No. 2-723
Travel Association Name: Japan Travel Association (Regular Member)
Reminders
A minimum of 6 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 case of delays caused by traffic, weather, or other force majeure factors resulting in the cancellation of some itinerary attractions, please contact customer service. We will arrange a partial refund for you
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 20 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Vehicle type: Cars are dispatched based on the number of people. When traveling with a small number of people, a driver and accompanying personnel will be arranged to provide full-time travel services. No additional tour leader will be assigned. Please note.
Infants: Under 3 years old can ride for free. One adult can only bring one infant under 3 years old who does not occupy a seat. Meals and attraction tickets will not be provided. Child fees will be charged if a seat is occupied. Please note. If you are travelling with an infant under 3 years old, please note this in the remarks column.
Due to limited space in the luggage storage box, if you have large luggage, please inform us in the remarks column. Thank you for your cooperation.
Please note that the bus seats are subject to on-site allocation and cannot be specified. Please understand.
The scheduled tour route may be changed or cancelled due to traffic conditions or congestion on the day.
The scheduled tour route may be subject to adjustment in the length of stay at attractions or cancellation of some attractions due to force majeure factors such as traffic conditions and weather on the day. The return arrival time may also be significantly delayed, so please avoid planning activities on that evening. Please note.
After the trip has started, if the trip is terminated due to force majeure such as weather conditions or natural disasters, the unfulfilled itinerary will be refunded according to the actual expenses incurred. However, additional expenses such as return transportation costs or local accommodation costs must be borne by the passenger.
Passengers under the age of 18 cannot participate alone and must be accompanied by a passenger over the age of 18.
If you need to change to a vegetarian meal due to allergies or religious reasons, or if you do not want to eat (no refund will be accepted), the lunch meal can be changed to a "vegetarian meal". Please note the number of people when ordering. Please be aware of this.
The deer in Nara Park are not kept by humans. If you wish to touch or feed them, please consider your own safe distance and behavior.
The flower viewing period or maple viewing period will be slightly affected by weather conditions and may be slightly earlier or later. After the tour is completed, it will not be affected by the flowering/maple viewing conditions and will proceed as usual. Please be advised.
[Spring Plan] There are some areas in Hikone Castle that have slopes and stairs, so please use your own discretion.
[Summer Plan] The Michigan will be operated by other cruise ships depending on the situation
【Summer Plan】The Michigan may be suspended or unable to dock due to strong winds, bad weather or other possible factors
【Summer Plan】If the Michigan is suspended due to strong winds, bad weather or other possible factors, the price difference will be refunded and the time for visiting Todaiji Temple and Nara Park will be extended.
[Autumn Plan] Mount Hiei Enryakuji Temple is located in a mountainous area and there will be slopes and stairs, so please make your own arrangements.
【Winter Plan】Snow play tour. The weather outside is cold, so please prepare warm clothes and gloves for playing in the snow.
[Winter Plan] Skiing experience is an outdoor sport. Please assess your physical health before the experience. It is not recommended for passengers who have had major surgery or fractures to participate. If you insist on participating, please take responsibility for yourself. If an accident occurs due to force majeure, please contact our staff immediately.
【Winter Plan】Please pay attention to your own safety during your free time and assess your own abilities. It is not recommended to go to intermediate and advanced ski slopes.
【Winter Plan】Please note that the Lake Biwa Ropeway may have to be suspended due to strong winds and lightning strikes. If the operation is suspended, the price difference will be refunded and the time for Todaiji Temple and Nara Park will be extended.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 4 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- For cancellations made 2 to 3 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 50% will apply
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–1 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.
FAQ
The area commonly known as Nara Deer Park is officially part of Nara Park, which is a large public park established in 1880 at the foot of Mount Wakakusa in Nara, Japan. It is home to hundreds of wild sika deer that roam freely across the grounds, making it a unique natural and cultural attraction.
Lake Biwa offers diverse experiences throughout the year. In spring, visitors can enjoy cherry blossom viewing at Hikone Castle. Summer allows for cruising on Lake Biwa aboard the Michigan paddle steamer. Autumn brings stunning maple leaf viewing opportunities at Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei. During winter, Lake Biwa Valley offers fun activities like playing in the snow, allowing visitors to experience the lake's changing beauty.
Yes, Lake Biwa is rich in legends. One prominent story is that of the Dragon God of Lake Biwa, Ryujin, who is said to reside in the lake. Another tale involves the legendary warrior Fujiwara no Hidesato, who helped Ryujin defeat a giant centipede living on Mount Mikami. In exchange, Hidesato was given an endless supply of rice and fabric from the dragon's palace beneath the lake. The lake's unique shape, resembling a traditional Japanese lute (biwa), also contributes to its cultural significance.
Lake Biwa is a natural lake, and it is the largest freshwater lake in Japan. It is also recognized as one of the world's oldest lakes, with an estimated age of at least four million years. Its formation is attributed to natural tectonic activity and geological processes that occurred over millions of years, rather than human construction.
Baumkuchen, or 'tree cake,' originated in Germany but holds significant cultural importance in Japan. Its ringed structure, resembling tree rings, symbolizes good luck, longevity, and strong bonds, making it a popular gift for weddings and special celebrations. In Omi Hachiman, Shiga, it has become a celebrated local specialty, with artisan bakeries perfecting its delicate preparation and making it a must-try local delicacy for visitors.
The main historical highlight of Todaiji Temple is its Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden), which houses a massive bronze statue of Vairocana Buddha. This impressive statue, standing approximately 15 meters tall, is one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world. The temple itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and played a crucial role in early Japanese Buddhism, drawing visitors with its grandeur and historical depth.
For tours departing from Osaka that include visits to Lake Biwa, Todaiji Temple, Nara Park, and other specified attractions, transportation is typically arranged and included. This usually involves comfortable bus or coach travel, ensuring a convenient and hassle-free experience for participants. Travelers can enjoy the scenic journey between locations without needing to navigate public transport or plan complex routes independently.
Interacting with the wild deer in Nara Park is generally safe, as they are accustomed to human presence. However, visitors should remember they are wild animals. It is important to avoid teasing them or holding food out for too long. Only feed them 'shika senbei' (deer crackers) purchased from licensed vendors within the park, as other foods can be harmful to their health. It's best to feed them in small portions and avoid approaching them from behind.
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