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

We are a picturesque location that is surrounded by greenery and is overlooking Lake Biwa. Please enjoy spending a moment of your time in this exceptional atmosphere. Our home roasted coffee and Omi Beef Suji Curry are our recommendations.

Central

Here at Kurashi Gallery Sansai you will come across handmade novelty items from all over the country that are being displayed at galleries in both Shiga and Sakamoto, as well as in department stores nationwide. We hope that you are able to sense the craftsmanship within our products.

North central

Shizukarou played an important role in lake transportation. It was established in the fishing town Katata. This name is known from “Katata no Rakugan” (Wild Geese Returning Home at Katata), one of the paintings in the “Omi Hakkei” (Eight Views of Omi) series. Shizudaro’s local cuisine has more than 80 years of history. Visitors can enjoy dishes prepared with fresh ingredients from Lake Biwa including gudgeon, duck, eel, and sweetfish.

Northern / North central

Our restaurant is located within the grounds of Mount Hiei’s Enryakuji Temple, the headquarters of the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism. Here you can both experience the views of Lake Biwa, as well as enjoy our cuisine which puts an emphasis on the usage of locally sourced ingredients. We also carry a wide variety of popular souvenirs such as Mount Hiei homa tofu, and recently reopened after renovation in the spring of 2019.

Northern