Shiga Prefecture is located in the region of Kansai in the southern part of Honshu Island in Japan. It is bordered by Fukui Prefecture in the north, Gifu Prefecture in the east, Mie Prefecture in the southeast, and Kyoto Prefecture in the west. It is known for the largest lake in Japan, Lake Biwa, which covers almost one-sixth of the whole prefecture.
Shiga is also famous for its ancient history, including numerous temples and shrines. It is home to eight of the 17 World Cultural Heritage sites linked to the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto. Some of the most famous include Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei and the Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine.
Regarding its economy, Shiga houses several multinational corporations including IBM Japan and major production plants of automobile companies such as Yanmar. Agriculture, including rice farming, is also important for the local economy.
Shiga has a variety of traditional cuisine, such as Funazushi, made from fish found in Lake Biwa, and Omi beef, counted as one of Japan’s three major Wagyus.
The prefecture is relatively rural and preserves a traditional Japanese atmosphere, making it a perfect place to experience the beauty and serenity of the Japanese countryside. Despite its rural character, Shiga is also easily accessible from the major cities of Kyoto and Osaka.
