With Lake Biwa right on our doorstep, and thanks to its uniquely circular shape, Shiga has a perfect cycling route 'Biwaichi' that offers both a stimulating adventure and a chance to see the prefecture in all its beauty.
Cycling the lake is best done from early spring to late autumn – excluding those hellish midsummer periods – and can be enjoyed with just about any well-maintained bike (rentals available!)
Shiga AJET has a dedicated 2-day trip that is less taxing but just as enjoyable. With rented bikes, we start from Hikone and cycle around the north-side of the lake, with it's splendid countryside, isolated mountain roads, and picturesque views of the lake. Cycling through Takashima, the first day of the cycling ends in Omi-Maiko, a seaside town known for its beaches.
The next day of the cycle begins with a cycle towards the Rainbow Bridge (cue Super Mario music) that connects the West-side with the East-side of Shiga. An immense feat of architecture, this bridge has a steep incline but a thoroughly enjoyable decline that has you feeling the wind in your hair. This second day sees you returning back to Hikone, thoroughly tired but most definitely pleased, to have seen all the sights your new home of Shiga has to offer you.
Cycling the lake is best done from early spring to late autumn – excluding those hellish midsummer periods – and can be enjoyed with just about any well-maintained bike (rentals available!)
Shiga AJET has a dedicated 2-day trip that is less taxing but just as enjoyable. With rented bikes, we start from Hikone and cycle around the north-side of the lake, with it's splendid countryside, isolated mountain roads, and picturesque views of the lake. Cycling through Takashima, the first day of the cycling ends in Omi-Maiko, a seaside town known for its beaches.
The next day of the cycle begins with a cycle towards the Rainbow Bridge (cue Super Mario music) that connects the West-side with the East-side of Shiga. An immense feat of architecture, this bridge has a steep incline but a thoroughly enjoyable decline that has you feeling the wind in your hair. This second day sees you returning back to Hikone, thoroughly tired but most definitely pleased, to have seen all the sights your new home of Shiga has to offer you.