A Drive Through the Embrace of Rich Satoyama Landscapes | Itineraries

Nature and satoyama scenery spreading along the mountain stream

The gentle Seta River changes character at the Arai Weir, and near the Shikatombi Gorge—home to Tachiki Kannon Temple—the river narrows further and the current grows even more vigorous. Cross the Shikatombi Bridge to the east and you will find traditional rural landscapes that retain the harshness of nature, inviting visitors back to a simpler time. The area is also dotted with notable sites that feel as though they can only be reached after a walk through mountain trails. Facilities where you can learn about the water environment, natural hot springs, and traditional inns serving Lake Biwa river fish are also available. Take your time and visit at a leisurely pace.

Tips for getting around

Enjoy refreshing drives through nature along the gorge
The area around Arai Weir and in front of Tachiki Kannon is also accessible by bus
Trekking trails lead to Iwama-dera Temple and Tachiki Kannon, offering hiking enjoyment

Route

Day 1

Seta River Arai Weir: Traces of an Industrial Heritage Site
Tachiki Kannon: Visit the Temple of Protection from Misfortune
Kanou Shoujuan Sunaioi no Sato
Tomikawa Cliff-Carved Buddha: Admire the Rustic Stone Beauty
Nangō Onsen Futabaya: A Hot Spring Along the Clear Stream

Day 1

① Seta River Arai Weir: Traces of an Industrial Heritage Site

Built in 1905, the current weir is the second generation, completed in 1961.
The original weir from the Meiji era, the Nangō Arai Weir, is commemorated by brick weir pillars preserved on both banks slightly upstream.

Location: View on Google Maps

Approx. 5 minutes by car

② Tachiki Kannon: Visit the Temple of Protection from Misfortune

It is said that in the early Heian period, the monk Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi) carved a sacred standing tree during his unlucky year and founded this temple, which has been widely revered as a Kannon of protection from misfortune.
The approximately 800 stone steps leading to the temple grounds are one of its attractions.

Tachiki Kannon (Tachikizan Anyo-ji Temple)

Location: Japan, 〒520-0865 Shiga, Otsu, Ishiyamanangōchō, 奥山１２３１

View on Google Maps
Business Hours: Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Parking Lot: Space for 50 cars, several large vehicles

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Approx. 10 minutes by car

③ Kanou Shoujuan Sunaioi no Sato

Kano Shojuan Sunainosato

Location: 4-chōme-2-1 Ōishiryūmon, Otsu, Shiga 520-2266, Japan

View on Google Maps
Business Hours: Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Wednesday
Parking Lot: Available

View Details

Approx. 15 minutes by car

④ Tomikawa Cliff-Carved Buddha: Admire the Rustic Stone Beauty

Carved into a massive rock during the Kamakura period, this Buddha statue is said to bring blessings for ear ailments. Its towering size evokes a mystical atmosphere.

Tomikawa Cliff-Carved Buddha

Location: View on Google Maps
Business Hours: Open for worship
Phone (Ishiyama Station Tourist Information): 077-534-0706

Approx. 15 minutes by car

⑤ Nangō Onsen Futabaya: A Hot Spring Along the Clear Stream

An inn facing the clear Seta River. The second-floor large bath, open for day-trip use, offers wonderful views and a liberating sense of openness. You can also enjoy kaiseki cuisine featuring the inn's specialty dishes: simmered carp and carp arai (reservations required).