The cultural treasures of Shiga Prefecture are best explored through guided experiences ranging from $101-$224. Two standout tours have earned perfect ratings: The Rural Brewery Town Walk and Nakasendo Historical Walking Tour. We especially love the brewing traditions tour in Kinomoto for its authentic glimpse into local life, while the scenic bike route through Hikone Castle Town offers an intimate look at samurai-era Japan. Lake Biwa cruises round out the essential experiences. Let’s explore the top-rated tours that showcase this fascinating region.
Key Points
-
The Rural Brewery Town Walk offers an authentic taste of Japanese brewing culture with perfect 5-star ratings at $101.83.
-
Nagahama’s 2-day private tour provides the most comprehensive cultural experience, including temple rituals and mountain views.
-
The Nakasendo Historical Walking Tour combines local history with craft village exploration and includes a traditional ryotei bento lunch.
-
Hikone’s bike tour offers an active way to explore castle town heritage with flexible payment options at $152.75.
-
The Downtown and Biwalake Cruising tour combines urban exploration with scenic lake views at a central meeting point.
Rural Brewery Town Walk: Half-Day Private Tour Near Kyoto
While traditional Japanese brewing arts remain alive in Kinomoto, this half-day private tour offers an intimate glimpse into the town’s centuries-old sake and soy sauce production.
Departing from JR Maibara Station, visitors explore three specialty breweries and a local temple. The $101.83 per-person tour includes a professional guide, tastings, and train fares.
The tour’s gotten perfect 5-star ratings from previous guests. It’s easily accessible from Kyoto via bullet train, though travelers should note that not all trains stop at Maibara.
While it’s not wheelchair accessible, most visitors can participate. Free cancellation’s available up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Rural Brewery Town Walk: Half-Day Private Tour Near Kyoto Review
Book now: Check availability
Nakasendo Historical Town and Hidden Craft Village Walking Tour
Another remarkable experience awaits travelers in Shiga Prefecture with the Nakasendo Historical Town and Hidden Craft Village Walking Tour.
This private walking tour, priced from $176.51 per person, starts at JR Maibara Station at 9:00 am. The package includes a professional bilingual guide, locally-sourced ryotei bento lunch, and train fares.
With its perfect 5.0 rating, the tour requires moderate fitness and isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with medical conditions.
Participants should book at least 48 hours in advance. While souvenirs and snacks aren’t included, all fees, taxes, and light refreshments are covered.
Read our full review: Nakasendo Historical Town and Hidden Craft Village Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
2 Days Private Tour To Nagahama With Ritual Experience
Travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience can explore Nagahama through this two-day private tour, starting at $190.09 per person.
The itinerary includes a chair lift ride up Mt. Shizugatake for panoramic views of Lake Biwa and Lake Yogo, plus insights into local shogun history.
Day two focuses on authentic temple rituals, including drum bell ringing and preparing offerings.
The package covers breakfast, private transport, guide services in English, Spanish, or Japanese, and essential tickets.
While dinner isn’t included, guides provide local recommendations.
The tour’s flexible booking policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before, with dietary accommodations available upon request.
Read our full review: 2 Days Private Tour To Nagahama With Ritual Experience Review
Book now: Check availability
Hikone Bike Half-Day Tour Through a Castle Town Near Kyoto, Osaka
The Hikone Bike Half-Day Tour offers visitors an active way to explore this historic castle town, with prices starting at $152.75 per person.
This private tour includes bicycle rental, admission fees, and snacks, though meals aren’t covered.
The tour departs from Hikone Station and requires moderate fitness. It’s not suitable for travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnancy.
Optional pickup service is available for 25,000 yen, and there’s a Kyoto transfer option for 20,000 yen.
While the tour offers flexible booking with a “Reserve Now, Pay Later” option, its current 3.0-star rating from two reviews suggests room for improvement.
Read our full review: Hikone Bike Half-Day Tour Through a Castle Town Near Kyoto, Osaka Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Walking Tour in Downtown and Biwalake Cruising
Looking to explore Nagahama’s historic downtown and scenic Lake Biwa? This private walking tour combines city exploration with a relaxing lake cruise, starting at Nagahama Station at 10:00 am.
At $224.03 per person, the tour includes all entrance fees, cruise tickets, and taxes. It’s a flexible option with free cancellation up to 24 hours before and a reserve-now-pay-later policy.
While it’s not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can join.
You’ll meet your guide at the tourist information room on the second floor of Nagahama Station, where they’ll be holding a name signboard. The tour returns to the same location after completion.
Read our full review: Private Walking Tour in Downtown and Biwalake Cruising Review
Book now: Check availability
Nagahama Private Walking Tour
For a more intimate exploration of Nagahama at a lower price point, this private walking tour offers excellent value at $67.75 per person.
The tour begins and ends at Nagahama Castle Town Machiya Hotel, where a bilingual guide meets guests at reception.
The package includes all fees, taxes, and transportation expenses.
Travelers can book with confidence thanks to free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour and a lowest price guarantee.
While it’s not wheelchair accessible, most visitors can participate.
The flexible payment option lets guests secure their spot and pay later, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers planning ahead.
Read our full review: Nagahama Private Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Sum Up
Shiga Prefecture’s tours offer excellent value for travelers wanting to explore Japan beyond the usual tourist spots. The region’s variety of experiences, from brewery walks to castle town bike rides, won’t break the bank while delivering authentic cultural encounters. Whether it’s a half-day excursion or a two-day immersion, visitors can easily access these tours from Kyoto or Osaka, making Shiga a practical addition to any Japan itinerary.