Shiga Prefecture packs authentic Japanese experiences into every corner. The standout tours here skip the tourist traps and get straight to the good stuff. I love the Hikone Castle bike tour for its perfect mix of history and local life – you’ll pedal through narrow streets where merchants have done business for centuries. The rural brewery tours are a treat, letting you sample sake and soy sauce where they’re actually made, not in some tourist shop. For outdoor enthusiasts, the ninja village bike routes and Nakasendo trail walks deliver real adventure without the crowds you’ll find in bigger cities. Each tour includes transport, tickets, and meals, making logistics a breeze. Check out these top-rated tours below.
Key Points
- The Hikone Bike Half-Day Tour offers a private, 5-star rated experience exploring Hikone Castle and the surrounding area.
- The Rural Brewery Town Walk in Kinomoto provides an in-depth look at local sake and soy sauce breweries.
- The Must-See Spots of Kyoto tour covers iconic landmarks in the city, including transportation and lunch.
- The Ninjas Homeland Electric Biking Tour offers a customizable adventure through Mochizuki Twin Castles and a traditional Japanese house.
- The Nakasendo Historical Town Walking Tour takes visitors through the Nakasendo Historical Town and Hidden Craft Village with a bilingual guide and bento lunch.
Hikone Bike Half-Day Tour Through a Castle Town Near Kyoto, Osaka
Nestled near the iconic cities of Kyoto and Osaka, the Hikone Bike Half-Day Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the charming castle town of Hikone.
This private, 5-star rated tour starts at 9 AM from Hikone Station and includes the use of a bicycle, admission fees, and snacks.
Highlights include seeing Hikone Castle, one of Japan’s best-preserved feudal castles.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate fitness level.
While food and drinks are at the customer’s expense, the tour provides an immersive way to discover Hikone’s historical sights.
With the option to add transportation from Kyoto, this half-day adventure is an ideal introduction to Shiga Prefecture.
Read our full review: Hikone Bike Half-Day Tour Through a Castle Town Near Kyoto, Osaka Review
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Rural Brewery Town Walk: Half-Day Private Tour Near Kyoto
Situated in the rural town of Kinomoto, this half-day private tour invites visitors to explore the region’s thriving specialty breweries.
The experience includes tours and tastings at two sake breweries and one soy sauce brewery, offering an intimate glimpse into local fermentation traditions. Guests will also visit a nearby temple and enjoy a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide.
The tour starts at Maibara Station, with instructions provided for reaching Kinomoto by local train.
With all fees, taxes, and alcoholic tastings included, this is an accessible and well-reviewed tour that showcases Shiga Prefecture’s unique culinary heritage.
Read our full review: Rural Brewery Town Walk: Half-Day Private Tour Near Kyoto Review
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Must-See Spots of Kyoto – One Day Private Tour
This one-day private tour explores the must-see spots of Kyoto, Japan’s cultural capital.
It begins at Kyoto Station, where you’ll meet your guide and set off to discover iconic landmarks like Kiyomizu-dera temple and Sanju-sangendo.
The tour covers transportation, entrance fees, and lunch, ensuring a seamless experience.
While most travelers can participate, it’s not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
The tour ends back at the meeting point.
Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and you’ll explore Kyoto’s rich history and culture with the convenience of a private guide.
Read our full review: Must-See Spots of Kyoto – One Day Private Tour Review
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Ninjas Homeland Electric Biking Private Tour Near Kyoto
Travelers seeking an exhilarating adventure in Shiga Prefecture can embark on the Ninjas Homeland Electric Biking Private Tour near Kyoto.
This 5-7 hour customizable tour includes an electric bike, coffee, a guide, bottled water, a Japanese name tag souvenir, and lunch.
The tour starts at Kōnan Station, where guests will explore the Mochizuki Twin Castles and a traditional Japanese house.
With a 5.0 rating from 1 review, this tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions, as a minimum height of 140 cm and the ability to ride a bicycle are required.
Read our full review: Ninjas Homeland Electric Biking Private Tour Near Kyoto Review
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Nakasendo Historical Town and Hidden Craft Village Walking Tour
Set out on a captivating journey through Shiga Prefecture’s Nakasendo Historical Town and Hidden Craft Village on this walking tour.
Priced from $170.14 per person, the tour offers a professional bilingual guide, a locally-sourced ryotei bento lunch, and light refreshments.
Explore the historical town and hidden craft village, with train fares to and from the meeting point at JR Maibara Station included.
However, this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate fitness level.
Confirmation is subject to availability, and no refunds are provided for cancellations.
Discover the rich cultural heritage and hidden gems of this region on this private walking adventure.
Read our full review: Nakasendo Historical Town and Hidden Craft Village Walking Tour Review
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Recap
Shiga Prefecture offers a diverse range of tours that allow visitors to explore its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. From biking through a castle town to discovering hidden craft villages, these tours provide an immersive experience that showcases the best of the region. Whether you’re interested in castles, breweries, or natural landscapes, Shiga has something to offer for everyone.