one dayTake the Road
Less Traveled
to Experience the
Rich Rural Culture
of Lake Biwa.
As featured in the 2024 Lonely Planet guide of Japan!
Private Tours
All tours are private, for your group only. We keep groups small and limit visitor numbers for a relaxed, personal experience that also respects the communities we visit.
Local Guides
Our guides are locals with deep knowledge of the area. They don’t just show you the sights, but share stories, culture, and personal insights, bringing each place to life.
Real Connections
We visit places where everyday life continues, not tourist destinations. With a local guide, you’ll meet real people, and connect naturally via shared moments and conversations.
Just 20 min. from Kyoto
by Bullet Train!
Meet your guide right at JR Maibara Station!
Featured Private Tour Courses
Perfect Kyoto Daytrip off the Beaten Path on Strictly Private Tours!
Unique local tours through the authentic countryside of Japan with immersive experiences for adventurous travelers. Discover charming rural villages and refreshing nature on our mountain bike or e-bike cycling tours. Explore scenic brewery towns or hidden artisanal villages on walking and hiking tours, or immerse yourself in local food with cooking workshops. Our mission is to ensure the sustainability of our local culture, while providing unforgettable experiences!
Nature & Countryside
one day
one dayExtended Walking Tour
Tranquil Walk Between the Nakasendo’s Historic Towns & Rural Landscapes
NakasendoRural
one day
half dayCultural Heritage & Craft
one day
one day
one dayExperience & Walking
Warriors & Blacksmiths: Tracing Samurai Legends around Lake Biwa
BlacksmithHands-onHistoryCulinary Culture
one day
one day
one dayExperience & Walking
Learn Local Fermentation Culture at Myoraku-ji Temple with Noriko
FermentationHands-onSake
one day
half day
Explore More of Northern Shiga
Custom Tours Rooted in Northern Lake Biwa Culture
History & Culture
Local Foods
Mountain Hiking
In addition to our featured tours, we offer custom experiences that reflect the deep culture of Northern Lake Biwa — from island sanctuaries and fermented food traditions to prayerful village life and place-based learning. Perfect for travelers, schools, and small groups seeking something quiet, meaningful, and truly local.
from our guests
Testimonials
View on TripAdvisor
Northern Shiga and Lake Biwa
Our Local Area
Lake Biwa, or Biwako (琵琶湖), is Japan’s largest and one of the world’s oldest freshwater lakes. Just north of Kyoto, it supports a rich ecosystem and a farming culture shaped by life close to water and land.
This area sits along the historic Nakasendo route as well as another key historical northbound route. Their intersection made Maibara a historically important junction — a key link in regional travel that quietly served a significant role in Japanese history.
Today, it remains a convenient access point including shinkansen service, and is home to Biwako Backroads. From here, it’s easy to explore Northern Shiga in Hikone, Maibara, and Nagahama.
Access & Meeting Point
Meet Up and Go!
Meet your guide at JR Maibara Station, just 20 minutes from Kyoto by shinkansen. See more detailed access and meet-up info here:
Working Together for Progress
Memberships & Partners
Questions Welcome!
Contact Us
All questions welcome! To book a tour, please use the Booking Page form. Thanks, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can!