Shiga

I’ve been to Shiga several times as a family summer trip, and I just have to share all the cool details! Shiga isn’t just another prefecture in Japan; it’s a place that feels like a leap back into a serene, picturesque past, especially famous for its shimmering Lake Biwa—the biggest lake in Japan. Oh, and let’s not forget, it’s a hotspot for those lustrous Japanese pearls too!

So, there we were, back in Shiga, a place that holds a bunch of my childhood memories, but this time I got to show my husband, Bill, all its charms. Let me tell you, diving back into those familiar scenes with him was something else!

We kicked things off with a must-do—sushi for every meal, just as Dad insists whenever we visit. Trust me, no one’s complaining! It’s like a delicious ritual at this point. The sushi there? Divine, and getting to devour it meal after meal was a treat.

Now, onto the heart of Shiga—Lake Biwa. We hopped on a chair lift to go up to Biwako Terrace where you can see the great view of the city and the lake. Just imagine fireworks on the lake during the Lake Biwa Fireworks Festival which is one of the largest firework festivals in Japan. Pure magic! And right there, towering proudly by the lake, was Hikone Castle. This fortress is over 400 years old and still stands mighty and proud. Wandering through its historic halls, we could almost hear the echoes of samurai warriors from centuries ago.

But Shiga isn’t just about scenic boat rides and ancient castles. It’s a paradise for foodies too! We sunk our teeth into some Omi beef, and boy, was it scrumptious! This beef is so tender and flavorful, that it practically melts in your mouth. And then there was funazushi—now that’s an acquired taste! It’s this unique, fermented carp sushi that’s been a local favorite for more than 1,300 years. Trying it is a must; it’s like tasting history!

The people in Shiga? They’re the real gems. Every corner we turned, we were met with smiles and warmth. It felt like being part of a big, welcoming family. We even got to join in a traditional tea ceremony. Learning the precise, graceful art of tea making and sipping was an eye-opener. It’s not just about drinking tea; it’s about celebrating the moment and connecting with others.

Every bit of our trip was a blast—a blend of nature, history, and culture that you don’t find just anywhere. So yeah, revisiting Shiga with Bill by my side was not just a trip; it was a journey full of new memories in an old place I adore. We left with our hearts full and our spirits lifted, already dreaming about when we might return.