It was during the days of the Heian Capital (of Kyoto), in 805, when the monk Saicho returned from his pilgrimage to China with a handful of tea leaves. It was the tea trees that were planted in the foothills of Mt. Hiei, in Otsu, that formed the foundation of the Japanese tea of today. At Nakagawa Seisei-do Tea, we work hard to use the most natural methods possible, from our soil treatment to the processing of the tea leaves—even as we retain the traditions of the verdant tea leaves that first came to this lake country. We will continue to strive to protect the flavor and fragrance of Omi […]

Central

Omi wagyu beef is exquisitely marbled, and the moment you put it in your mouth, your mouth will fill with its smooth flavor. Omi beef’s particular flavor and tenderness are what give it its exceptional taste. Come savor the essence of Omi beef. Once you’ve tasted it, you’ll never forget it.

Central

Mii-dera Chikaramochi was founded in the second year of the Meiji era and is the birthplace of Mii-dera Chikaramochi, a product that has become famous in Otsu. The shop is named in honor of Musashibo Benkei, the immensely strong man who dragged Mii-dera Temple’s bell to Mt. Hiei. The traditional handmade technique used to make Mii-dera Chikaramochi has been passed down from generation to generation and has become known for its simple, rustic hometown taste. Chikaramochi is a fresh, made-to-order mochi which uses honey and a green soy bean powder topping. The mochi does not contain any additives or preservatives.

Central

Located on the north side of Seta Karahashi Higashizume, our store has changed over time from being centered around traditional cruising with a old-fashioned Japanese house boat, to both a restaurant as well as a ryokan that is beloved both locally and by visitors from the Kyoto and Osaka areas. Since relocating in 1952 to our current location in Seta’s Karahashi Nakanoshima, we’ve progressed from not just cruising, but to adding a tatami banquet area as well where you can dine while enjoying the fresh waterside atmosphere of Lake Biwa. Currently we have ceased operation as a ryokan, and are focused on our continuing house boat and banquet hosting endeavors.

Southern

Shigatakara’s products are made from carefully selected ingredients from and are produced in Shiga Prefecture. Our Lake Biwa Shrimp Senbei uses only special Shiga ingredients to be a crispy cracker. Our products have even won the Honorary Governor’s Award at the 26th National Confectionary Exhibition.