A Gastronomic Journey Through Shiga's Terraced Rice Fields and Sake Breweries

Just a quick train ride away from Kyoto, Shiga Prefecture is home to Japan’s largest freshwater lake, tranquil Lake Biwa, and a long history of fermentation culture, which not only creates delicious and healthy foods, but is thought to be one of the secrets behind the residents’ longevity.

Go on a foodie journey of discovery, beginning at Fukui Yahei Shoten, a long-established sake brewery founded in 1748. The brewery owner himself will guide you into the storehouse, which is normally off-limits to the public, after which you can sample some of his prized brews.

Next, visit the Hata rice terraces, where the tiered paddies tell the story of the land's history and the lives of those who have spent generations maintaining this iconic view. Here, you'll be able to interact with the warm-hearted locals and to top it off, eat rice balls made with the rice grown in the terraces, to taste the very essence of this land.

End your trip relaxing at the Lake Biwa Hotel in the special Royal Suite, where you can get a totally private overlook of the lake. Stretch out in the soothing natural hot springs and then savor a pairing dinner featuring Shiga's finest sake, seasonal ingredients, and fermented foods, for the perfect ending to your gourmet adventure!