Most visitors come to Shirahige Shrine to see its famous torii gate standing in the water.

But this tour goes beyond the view.

You will step into everyday life—
walking through a quiet town, entering a real home, and cooking with a local resident.

This is not a cooking class.
It is a shared moment of daily life in Japan.

◾️ Visit Shirahige Shrine
Explore one of Japan’s oldest shrines, known for its iconic torii gate in Lake Biwa.
Experience a quiet and spiritual atmosphere away from crowded tourist spots.

◾️ Walk through a local town
Stroll through Omizo and discover everyday life in a rural Japanese community.

◾️ Cook with a local home cook
Join a local resident, Tomoko, in her kitchen and prepare traditional Japanese dishes using seasonal ingredients.

This is not taught by a professional chef, but by someone who has cooked for her family for years—
offering a truly authentic experience.

Vegetarian options available upon request

◾️ Small group experience
Maximum 6 guests.
Personal, relaxed, and interactive.

While Shirahige Shrine attracts many visitors for its scenic beauty,
the surrounding area remains a place where traditional life continues quietly.

In this tour, you will move beyond the surface—
from a place of prayer to a place of living.

By visiting a local home and cooking together,
you will experience the warmth, rhythm, and simplicity of everyday life in Japan.

⚪︎ Comfortable clothing
⚪︎ Walking shoes
⚪︎ Water / small bag
⚪︎ Cash (for personal purchases or taxi)
⚪︎ Sunscreen / sunglasses (seasonal)
⚪︎ Gloves (winter)
⚪︎ Rain gear if needed

⚪︎ Bicycle rental
⚪︎ English-speaking guide
⚪︎ Cooking experience (ingredients & venue)
⚪︎ Lunch (meal you prepare)
⚪︎ Insurance

Bicycles can be used until 5:00 PM after the tour at no extra charge

Taxi transportation (optional, approx. ¥3,000 per vehicle)
Personal purchases

⚪︎ Travelers interested in authentic cultural experiences
⚪︎ People who want to connect with local life
⚪︎ Those who prefer meaningful experiences over sightseeing

This tour includes visiting a private home.
Please respect the host and follow your guide’s instructions.

Advance payment is required. Accepted methods: Credit card Electronic payments QR code payments Apple Pay / Google Pay Bank transfer available upon request.

Available for groups of 2–6 people. Please contact us with your preferred date.

JR Omi-Takashima Station (JR Kosei Line)

◾️ Cancellation Policy
⚪︎ Free cancellation up to 2 days before the tour date
⚪︎ 50% fee for cancellations made 1 day before
⚪︎ 100% fee for cancellations made on the day

◾️ Tour Operation & Weather Policy
⚪︎ Final decision will be made by 5:00 PM on the day before
⚪︎ The tour may be canceled due to weather conditions
⚪︎ If canceled by the organizer, a full refund will be provided

◾️ Minimum Participants
⚪︎ The tour requires a minimum number of participants
⚪︎ If not met, it may be canceled up to 2 days in advance
⚪︎ In such cases, a full refund will be issued

Additional Information

Detailed instructions will be sent after your booking is confirmed.

Oliver / Australia

The Shirahige Shrine gate in the water was stunning, but the highlight was cooking with Tomoko. She welcomed us into the kitchen like old friends. We learned how to make dashi from scratch and enjoyed a peaceful lunch. It felt like discovering the ‘real’ Japan away from the crowds.

Mei / Taiwan

We chose the 6-hour plan. Starting the day by picking fresh ingredients at the local market was a great experience. The trekking to Mt. Take-yama was a bit of a workout, but the panoramic view of Lake Biwa from the top was worth every step! It was the perfect mix of nature, spirituality, and food.

Daniel / Germany

I took the 4-hour plan. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable about the history of the Takashima area. Walking through the quiet streets of Omizo after visiting the shrine was so relaxing. Cooking together was fun even for a solo traveler like me. Highly recommended for those who want a deeper cultural connection!

Hello from Takashima! I like walking along the lake, growing vegetables, arranging flowers and making a delicious cup of matcha(green tea). I enjoy my life here. It would be my pleasure to share the beauty and peacefulness of my loving town with you. I’m looking forward to meeting you!