The calm waters of Hachiman-bori reflect the historic townscape of Omihachiman in Shiga Prefecture, symbolizing the charm of this former castle town. Built during the Edo period, this canal still retains the atmosphere of its heyday, offering different expressions with each season. As a place where serene scenery and history meet, it has long captivated many travelers.
This article compiles Q&A about visiting Hachiman-bori and helpful information for planning your trip. It introduces highlights, time requirements, and tips so that even first-time visitors and solo travelers can enjoy the area with ease.
On your next trip to Shiga, why not take your time to savor the beauty of Hachiman-bori? It will surely leave you with lasting memories.
Contents
Hachiman-bori Access Guide for First-time Visitors
Check the latest weather forecast before your visit: [weathernews ]
By Train
JR Osaka Station
Take the JR Biwako Line (Rapid) to “Omihachiman Station” (about 1 hr 5 min)
From the north exit of Omihachiman Station, take the Omi Railway Bus bound for “Chomeiji” or “Hachiman-yama Ropeway” and get off at “Ozugicho” (about 7 min)
Walk about 5 min to reach Hachiman-bori
Total travel time: approx. 1 hr 20 min
JR Nagoya Station
Take the Tokaido Shinkansen “Hikari” or “Kodama” to “Maibara Station” (about 35 min)
Transfer to the JR Biwako Line (Rapid) to “Omihachiman Station” (about 25 min)
From the north exit of Omihachiman Station, take the Omi Railway Bus bound for “Chomeiji” or “Hachiman-yama Ropeway” and get off at “Ozugicho” (about 7 min)
Walk about 5 min to reach Hachiman-bori
Total travel time: approx. 1 hr 15 min
One Point Advice
Visitor Info｜Hours, Admission & Access
Admission: Free for walking / Boat cruises from 1,500 yen for adults (varies by type; check official site)
Hours: Boat cruises 9:00–17:00 (seasonal variations apply)
Closed: Irregular holidays (may be canceled due to weather or water conditions)
Official website: https://www.omi8.com/
Hachiman-bori Highlights & Half-day Plan
Hachiman-bori Cruise｜Views of the Castle Town
A leisurely Hachiman-bori cruise , which preserves the atmosphere of the Edo period, is an unmissable experience when visiting Shiga’s Omihachiman area. The white-walled townhouses and stone walls reflected in the water offer a charm you cannot appreciate from land, while the gentle sound of water slows the passage of time. Listening to the boatman’s historical commentary naturally deepens your understanding of the town’s origins and merchant culture. The scenery changes dramatically with the seasons, with cherry blossoms and autumn foliage offering especially photogenic views.
Time required: 30–35 min
Fee: From 1,500 yen for adults (varies by type; check official site)
Shinmachi Street｜Omi Merchant Town Walk
Just a short walk from Hachiman-bori , Shinmachi Street is a historic road in Omihachiman lined with the residences and townhouses of Omi merchants. The street is flanked by latticed doors and white walls, and the local way of life still thrives here, with cafés and shops housed in renovated traditional buildings. Observing the details of the architecture as you walk, you can feel the atmosphere of the prosperous era built by the merchants. If time allows, visit publicly open merchant houses or museums to gain deeper insight into the town’s history.
Time required: 40–50 min
Fee: Free (separate fees for facility entry)
Hachiman-yama Ropeway｜Panoramic Waterway & Lake Views
Located north of Omihachiman city , Mount Hachiman rises to 271 meters and can be reached by ropeway in just a few minutes. From the observation deck, you can see Hachiman-bori’s waterways, the townscape of Omihachiman, Lake Biwa, and the Hira Mountains to the west. The remains of Hachiman-yama Castle, built by Toyotomi Hidetsugu, still stand here, and the view from the castle ruins is especially open and refreshing. The seasonal landscapes are beautiful, making it an ideal spot to end your sightseeing.
Time required: 30–40 min
Fee: 950 yen round-trip for adults
Hachiman-bori Afternoon & Next-day Trips
Hakuunkan｜Nearby Spot on Foot
Built in 1877, Hakuunkan is a pseudo-Western-style building originally used as an elementary school. Its white exterior walls and Western-style ornamentation are striking, and inside you will find exhibits on Omihachiman’s tourism information and local cultural materials. Located about a 5-minute walk from Hachiman-bori, it is an excellent stop during a stroll. Visitors can enjoy both the beauty of a historic building and its exhibits in a short time.
La Collina Omihachiman｜Nearby Spot by Train
From Hachiman-bori, take a bus back to Omihachiman Station, then another bus for about 10 minutes to this sweets-themed park . Operated by the Taneya Group in Omihachiman , it offers freshly baked Baumkuchen and exclusive desserts. The main shop with its grass roof and the nature-rich grounds are highly photogenic, making it irresistible for those with a sweet tooth. The complex also has a variety of cafés and shops, making it perfect for souvenir shopping.
Nagahama｜Recommended Next-day Trip
About one hour from Omihachiman via the JR Biwako Line , Nagahama is a destination where history and culture blend, featuring spots such as Kurokabe Square and Nagahama Castle Historical Museum. The retro townscape and glass craft shops in Kurokabe Square are enjoyable just to walk through and are especially popular with solo female travelers. In winter, you can also observe migratory birds in the Kohoku area, making it a place to enjoy different attractions each season. Pairing it with a Hachiman-bori visit allows you to experience Shiga’s history and scenery more broadly.
Hachiman-bori Q&A
How much time should I allow if I want to enjoy both a walk and a boat ride at Hachiman-bori?
About 1.5 hours in total is a good guide. If you want to take your time with photos, allow about 2 hours.
Do I need to book the boat cruise in advance?
During peak tourist seasons, boats can fill up, so booking through the official website is recommended. Same-day tickets may be available if there is space.
Can I rent a kimono nearby?
There are kimono rental shops near Hachiman-bori, perfect for strolling or photo shoots.
Can I combine this with other sightseeing nearby?
Yes, there are attractions within walking distance, such as the Hachiman-yama Ropeway and the old townscape.
Is it possible to walk the entire canal path?
Yes, the canal path is walkable and takes about 30 minutes end to end.
What’s the difference between the Hachiman-bori Canal Tour and the Suigo Tour?
This spot offers boat tours through two different areas. See below for more details.
Explanation of the two
The recommended option is the Hachiman-bori Canal Tour. In about 35 minutes, you can enjoy the historic townscape of Omi and its natural surroundings. The price is reasonable: 1,500 yen for adults and 1,000 yen for children. The boarding point is a 5-minute walk from the ropeway station.
The Suigo Tour is beautiful during cherry blossom season, but its main course passes through rural rice fields. It also operates only as a private charter, so it can be costly for small groups.
Hachiman-bori Summary｜What’s Next?
Hachiman-bori is a special place where you can experience both the history and the atmosphere of Omihachiman . The townscape reflected in the water and the seasonal colors offer new charms each time you visit.
From leisurely walks and boat rides to exploring local cuisine, the area offers an environment where even first-time visitors can feel at ease. Its blend of historical background and tranquil scenery will enrich your travel memories.
Next, why not extend your trip to include the views from the Hachiman-yama Ropeway or a stroll through the old townscape?
