Events-Shiga

Events, Events-Kyoto, Events-Others, Events-Shiga, Tips, Tips-Kyoto, Tips-Others, Tips-Shiga

How to Spend the New Year’s Eve in Japan

New Year’s Eve in Kansai — Closing the Year, Quietly and Gracefully In Japan, New Year’s Eve is not defined by fireworks or loud countdowns. It is a night of stillness — a moment to close the year with care, and to welcome the next one with a calm, attentive heart. Cleaning, a simple bowl of soba, the deep resonance of temple bells, and a quiet visit to a shrine or temple — these understated acts form the essence of how Japan greets the New Year. This article introduces the cultural meaning of Japanese New Year’s Eve, and where to experience it in Kansai, both traditionally and in modern ways. […]

Events, Events-Kyoto, Events-Others, Events-Shiga, Tips, Tips-Kyoto, Tips-Others, Tips-Shiga

The Winter Illumination in Kansai

Kansai Winter Illuminations From late December through early January, Kansai reveals a quieter beauty after sunset. Rather than overwhelming spectacle, winter illumination here is about atmosphere— experienced through calm walks, city lights, and reflective nights. Kyoto｜Refined Light in the Ancient Capital Heian Shrine｜Winter Light Art Located in Kyoto’s Okazaki cultural district, Heian Shrine is known for its spacious gardens and classical design. In winter, subtle illumination transforms the grounds into a serene nightscape where tradition and modern expression quietly meet. Period: Mid December – Mid January Admission: Paid (approx. ¥1,500–¥2,000) Kyoto Botanical Gardens｜Light Cycles Kyoto Just north of central Kyoto, this expansive botanical garden becomes an immersive nighttime art space.

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Discover the Beauty of Japanese Autumn in Shiga

Autumn Nights in Shiga Hyakusai-ji(百済寺), Kyōrin-bō(教林坊), and Kawaraya Zen Temple(瓦屋禅寺)— Full Historical, Cultural, and Spiritual Guide with Embedded Google Maps & Photo Galleries — Hyakusai-ji (百済寺) History Founded in Suiko 14 (A.D. 606) by Prince Shōtoku(聖徳太子), Hyakusai-ji is one of Shiga’s oldest Buddhist temples. Its name reflects the arrival of Buddhism from Baekje(百済), and the mountain is known as Shakasan(釈迦山). The temple prospered under Tendai-shū(天台宗) and survived destruction during the attack by Oda Nobunaga(織田信長), later being rebuilt. Garden Featuring a strolling pond garden (池泉回遊式) and bold rock formations, Hyakusai-ji holds the title “Tenka Enbō no Meien (天下遠望の名園)” and is listed among Japan’s Top 100 Autumn Foliage Spots (日本紅葉百選). Light-Up: Until

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The Private Tour operated by Toru Tour

TORU TOUR · Private Car Experience KANSAI 2-DAY BESPOKE JOURNEY From Osaka to Nara, Shiga, and Kyoto — experience Japan’s cultural heart in total comfort and privacy. With TORU TOUR’s private car and expert timing, you avoid crowds and queues, enjoying a journey that’s unhurried, elegant, and exclusively yours. Book Your Journey Pricing Why TORU TOUR Private Car Crowd-Avoidance Door-to-Door Comfort Photography-Ready Day 1 · Heritage, Shopping & Serenity From Osaka to Nara and Shiga, your private chauffeur takes you seamlessly through Japan’s history, flavor, and calm scenery — perfectly timed to avoid the crowds. 08:00 Hotel Pick-up (Namba, Osaka) 09:30 Nara Sightseeing 11:30 Lunch in Naramachi 14:00 Mitsui Outlet

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Fireworks in Autumn~Stunning Flower at Night in Kansai ~

🍂 If the leaves no longer burn red, chase the blooms in the night sky — and taste the flavors of fall When the maples fade and the crimson trails turn golden brown, Kansai still glows. The colors rise to the sky — soft, fleeting, unforgettable. Trade fallen leaves for fireworks, and after the show, savor Japan’s autumn flavors: matsutake, Ōmi beef, and warm sake under a starry chill. 🍁🎇🍶 紅葉が終わっても、関西の秋はまだそこにあります。 木々の色が消えても、夜空に光の花が咲き、舌には秋の味覚が残る。 夜の大輪と旬の香りを一緒に味わいに行きませんか？ 🚐 Hotel Pickup & 🍱 Traditional Dinner — Toru Tour Concierge Door-to-door: Kyoto/Osaka hotel pickup and drop-off (private car or premium van) Curated Fireworks Viewing: Reserved area, bilingual host, timing & crowd control handled for you Seasonal

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Azuchi Nobunaga Festival~

Azuchi Nobunaga Festival Every November｜Azuchi, Shiga Event Information Season: Every November (check the official website for exact dates) Location: Azuchi, Omihachiman City, Shiga Prefecture Access: 25 min walk from JR Azuchi Station / Parking available Admission: Free (some activities may vary) Official Website Nobunaga and the Sengoku Era Oda Nobunaga (1534–1582) was one of Japan’s most influential warlords. His slogan “Tenka Fubu” — “Rule the realm by force” — symbolized his bold plan to unify a fractured land. Beyond warfare, he embraced firearms, promoted free markets (Rakuichi Rakuza), and reshaped culture and politics. Nobunaga’s portraits and imagery from the Battle of Okehazama help introduce his character and era. Azuchi Castle

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Lantern Festival in Shiga~Autumn Leaves and Light in Night Sky

Lantern Nights in Shiga｜Konan & Katata Guide + TORU TOUR Private Car Two dreamy lantern festivals—one amid autumn leaves, one over Lake Biwa’s mirror-like surface. Below you’ll find festival overviews, access, pro shooting tips, and our private-car tour with price and booking. Lantern events in Shiga typically run in early November (dates vary by year). Because spots and tickets sell out quickly, please book early to secure both lantern participation and car pickup. 🚗 Kansai pickup available (Kyoto/Osaka/Nara/Shiga) 💴 Tour price: ¥10,000 per group 🏮 Lantern add-on: extra fee (advance reservation) ⚡️ Early booking recommended Contents Konan Kōyō Lantern Festival (Konan City) Katata Lantern Night (Lake Biwa / Ōtsu) TORU

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Top 5 Must-See Cultural & Art Events in Omihachiman 2025

Top Cultural & Artistic Events in Omihachiman Omihachiman, a historic canal town by Lake Biwa, offers unique seasonal experiences that attract visitors from around the world. Here are three must-experience categories that perfectly capture the spirit of the city: Photogenic Summer Vibes, Traditional Japanese Festivals, and Contemporary Art. Photogenic Summer: Wind Chime Promenade From July to mid-September, the summit of Mount Hachiman turns into a shimmering paradise. Hundreds of colorful wind chimes line the Hachiman-yama Ropeway observation area, creating a soothing soundscape and perfect Instagram moments. Until September 15 | Hachiman-yama Ropeway Open in Google Maps Traditional Lights: Mantō Festival at Himure Hachimangu Shrine Every August, the historic Himure Hachimangu

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Temples and Shrines in Shiga Vol.2

Miidera (Onjoji Temple, Otsu City) Cherry Blossoms & Autumn Leaves | Shiga, Japan Highlights Hillside temple overlooking Lake Biwa. Famous for spring blossoms and autumn foliage with night illumination. History Head temple of the Tendai Jimon sect, founded in the Nara period; deeply tied to the Imperial Court. Annual Events Hana Matsuri (Apr 8) Sennanko Festival (May) Autumn Illumination (Nov) Access from Kyoto Keihan Railway → Miidera Station → 10 min walk (about 40 min total). Google Map Ishiyamadera Temple (Otsu City) Cherry Blossoms & Autumn Leaves | Shiga, Japan Highlights Striking combination of temple halls and unique rock formations. Celebrated for cherry blossoms and autumn colors. History Saigoku Pilgrimage

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Shiga Shrines and Temples Vol 1

Lake &Waterside Scenic Shirahige Shrine (Takashima City) Lake & Waterside Scenic | Shiga, Japan Highlights The iconic torii standing in Lake Biwa—often called the “Itsukushima of Omi.” Sunrise and sunset views are breathtaking. History Dedicated to Sarutahiko-no-Mikoto; said to be over 2,000 years old. Revered for longevity and good fortune. Annual Events Main Festival (May 3) Lake Festival (August) Access from Kyoto JR Kosei Line → Omi-Takashima Station → 10 min walk or short bus ride (about 1 hr total). Google Map Chikubushima Hogonji Temple (Nagahama City) Lake & Waterside Scenic | Shiga, Japan Highlights A sacred island temple on Lake Biwa. The vermilion corridor connecting the Kannon Hall and

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