Osaka: Lake Biwa,Shirahige Shrine and Omi Highlights Day Trip
Description
Experience the essence of Japan in one unforgettable day!Explore the Shirahige Shrine, with a history of over 1,900 years, Its famous floating torii gate stands gracefully in the lake,Ride Japan’s fastest ropeway to breathtaking Lake Biwa views, explore the hidden Zen beauty of Sanzen-in Temple, Indulge in local sweets at La Collina, a fairytale village designed by famed architect Terunobu Fujimori. Perfect for families, friends, and culture lovers seeking stunning scenery, tradition, and local flavors — this tour is a journey through Japan’s heart and soul.
Tour Options
Itinerary
8:00 AM/9:20AM Osaka/Kyoto Start Your Journey Let’s embark on a day filled with breathtaking views and unforgettable memories! ▼ 10:20AM Shirahige Shrine & Floating Torii Gate on Lake Biwa (Approx. 30 min) Lake Biwa is Japan’s largest freshwater lake and a national symbol, located near Kyoto. It's known as the “Lake of Life” and is listed as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. Shirahige Shrine, with a history of over 1,900 years, is the oldest shrine in the Omi region and part of Japan Heritage. Its famous floating torii gate stands gracefully in the lake, offering stunning views that change with the time of day and weather. Tip: For the best photos, visit the nearby Blue Lake Shirahige Observatory.
▼ 11:30 AM Lake Biwa Observatory – Panoramic Views of the Dreamlike Lake Scenery (Approx. 120 min, Free Time & Optional Lunch at Own Expense, Available from May 1 to Oct 31, 2025) Ride Japan’s fastest ropeway with a 360° glass cabin and enjoy breathtaking views all the way up! Located on the west side of Lake Biwa, Biwako Valley is a popular destination for visitors from Kyoto and Osaka. The ropeway takes you to an altitude of 1,100 meters in just 5 minutes (operates slower from April to November for better sightseeing at 7 m/s). Along the way, you'll enjoy spectacular views of Lake Biwa. At the top, the Biwako Terrace is a favorite photo spot for young travelers and influencers. The area also features exciting activities such as the Zip Line with 7 routes, Skywalk, outdoor play areas, and more — perfect for couples and families alike.
▼Sanzen-in Temple – A Hidden Gem in Kyoto’s Ohara Countryside (Approx. 120 min, Free Time & Optional Lunch at Own Expense, visited on other dates or when ropeway is closed) Located in the quiet village of Ohara in northeastern Kyoto, Sanzen-in Temple is surrounded by tranquil mountains and rich history. Ohara has long been a retreat for nobles and monks, and its beauty has inspired many poets throughout the ages. Founded in the 8th century by monk Saicho on Mount Hiei, Sanzen-in offers stunning seasonal landscapes — cherry blossoms in spring, lush greens in summer, fiery maple leaves in autumn, and serene snowscapes in winter. This peaceful temple invites visitors not for the crowds, but for a calm heart and spiritual connection.
▼15:30 PM La Collina Omihachiman – A Storybook-Style Sweets Village with a Grass Roof (Approx. 60 min, Free Time) La Collina Omihachiman is a unique confectionery complex created by the famous Japanese sweets brand Taneya, designed by renowned architect Terunobu Fujimori, known for his imaginative and nature-inspired buildings. The main building features a grass-covered roof that blends beautifully with the surrounding landscape, making it look like a fairytale cottage. The name "La Collina" means "little hill" in Italian, reflecting the site's natural, eco-friendly concept. Inside, you’ll find Shiga’s first Baumkuchen specialty shop, where freshly baked layered cakes fill the air with a sweet aroma. You can also enjoy exclusive treats like made-to-order dorayaki filled with red bean paste and butter cream — popular with both locals and visitors. 16:30PM Start to return.(The return time may be affected by traffic, weather, and other factors.)
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- During the period when the Lake Biwa cable car was out of service, visit Sanzen-in Temple
- No refunds will be provided for late arrivals or no-shows.
- During peak travel seasons, weekends, or holidays, traffic congestion may occur. The guide may adjust the itinerary and reduce time at certain attractions. We appreciate your understanding and recommend not scheduling other activities after the tour to avoid potential losses.
- This is a shared group tour, so guests speaking different languages may join the same vehicle
- Travel times may vary due to traffic and weather, so the schedule is for reference only. Please avoid planning other activities after the tour, as we are not responsible for delays. In case of bad weather or unforeseen events, some attractions or shows may be adjusted or canceled without notice. Thank you for your understanding.
- Arrange the vehicle type based on the number of passengers for the day. Options are 10-45 seats.
- With fewer than 13 people, the guide will also drive and give only simple commentary.
- Vehicle type will be arranged based on the group size and cannot be specified in advance
Reviews(66)
Effy was great. She was informative, friendly and waited 5 minutes at one of the stops when I messaged her and stated we would be late due to a slight issue. We personally didn't love the cake factory but definitely could tell it was a personal preference as many others bought tons of treats there and it is beautiful
My guide Effy was diligent at all times, before the trip regarding the location of the meeting point, as well as at all times during it. At every stop, he would previously give a complete explanation of everything that was going to be visited and all the logistical issues. At each location, he accompanied us to guide us toward the areas where there might be questions. Furthermore, he is a very kind and pleasant person.
The pickup point were in either Osaka or Kyoto. Ours was at the Nipponbashi Station. We booked a hotel nearby. The entire trip was excellent. Our tour guide, Fe Fe did a great job explaining in English in addition to Mandarin. We were the only English speaking group on that bus, lol. The bus driver was very professional (Bus 3088). The destinations were on point for a day tour. The last stop was at La Collina, a famous Baumkuchen cake factory ! I would highly recommend booking this tour !
Effy was a great tour guide :) i loved the mountain we went to and the ski lift was my favorite part!
It was a nice tour, some aspects were more fun than others, but that's normal. The tour was nicely organized , and the guide was good and efficient.
Great value for money Effy was a very helpful guide dealing with both Chinese and European tourists at the same time, switching between languages. She helped with buying tickets, taking photos, everything. She gets 5/5 rating The gondola up the mountain was excellent and the views spectacular! La Collina was interesting and the shrines were lovely to visit
A lot of walking and buses, so a little long with children but magnificent. We discover the Japanese countryside and it is beautiful. And above all, we take a complete tour of the lake.
an delightful experience to such a beautiful Museum
Wonderful hidden day trip out of Kyoto. A must do! Beautiful scenic drive, Japanese garden, great lunch/coffee spots (Blend) , beautiful shrines and finished with a dessert with an unforgettable view
The tour guide is not proactive . 1. We have to locate the guide despite trying to connect on the mobile 2. He just walk to the next stop and not co-ordinate for everyone when we reach the tourist spot 3. We have a delayed for an hour . The driver missed the stop at Kyoto . He makes an u-turn back to the stop despite reaching Osaka soon. It was terrible. 4 . There is no stop for lunch except at the Lake Biwa . If you missed your meal at this stop . You cannot get anymore food . We went was raining . The view is bad if you take the cable up .
