Ride an e-bike (electric bicycle) and take in the views of Lake Biwa and the terraced rice fields—an early-spring journey around the Ōgi area.
Rent a bicycle from O-PAL and enjoy cycling through nature-rich Ōgi. Relax with the soothing scent of herbs, unwind at a footbath, or take a break at a café. This cycling course lets you fully enjoy the satoyama countryside in spring and refresh both body and mind.
Tips for getting around
Using a rental bicycle, you will enjoy the satoyama air and scenery while taking in views of the Ōgi terraced rice fields.
Check in at the O-PAL front desk and complete the bicycle rental procedures.
You will receive the original “Handmade Little Journey Discovery Map,” and staff will carefully introduce recommended routes and spots, so even first-time cyclists can feel at ease.
Opal
Location
5-chōme-8-265-1 Ogoto, Otsu, Shiga 520-0101, Japan
② Experiences and Shopping at Ōmi Ogoto Herb Garden
Ōmi Ogoto Herb Garden grows a wide variety of useful herbs organically in its garden and nearby fields.
It is a hands-on visitor facility that places emphasis on enjoying herbs with all five senses.
Workshops on the medicinal properties of plants and how to use them, herb distillation experience classes, and farm-work experiences are also offered.
Herbal tea café days and markets are also held irregularly.
Please check the official website or Instagram for event schedules and opening days (irregular holidays).
*From December to March, the garden is closed for winter viewing. Events may still be held, and shopping is available.
10:00 AM–4:00 PM (last entry 3:00 PM)
*Shortened hours on some days
*Workshops require reservation
Closed
Irregular holidays (please check the operating calendar on the website or social media)
*The garden is closed to visitors for winter viewing from December to March
③ Cycling While Enjoying Views of the Ōgi Terraced Rice Fields and Lake Biwa
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Cycle while enjoying views of the Ōgi terraced rice fields and Lake Biwa.
The Ōgi area offers a nostalgic rural landscape of Japan, with horseshoe-shaped terraced rice fields set against Lake Biwa. During cherry blossom season, it is also recommended to visit to see the single cherry tree of Ōgi together with the terraced rice fields.
*As the roads are narrow, when visiting by bicycle, we recommend parking your bicycle at a nearby open space and viewing the area on foot. Also, as cherry blossom season overlaps with rice-planting season, please be considerate so as not to obstruct the passage of tractors and other vehicles.
*Images are for illustrative purposes.
Return to O-PAL and return the bicycle.
Separate men’s and women’s locker rooms and shower rooms are available, and women can also use the powder room, so you can freshen up after cycling. (A separate fee of ¥1,100 per person applies.)
