The Ōmi region has one of the highest ratios of Buddhist temples to population in all of Japan. It’s home to three major temples, the Kotō Sanzan, renowned for their beautiful gardens. Pilgrims still come from far and wide to visit Taga Grand Shrine. There are also many castles and streets of old buildings.
Traditional industries dating back hundreds of years are still maintained in Ōmi today, including sake brewing, textile manufacture and dyeing, and manufacturing. Many of these places welcome visitors and offer opportunities to try your hand at these ancient crafts.
You’re never far from nature in Ōmi. The region has Japan’s largest lake, as well as major mountains such as Mt. Ibuki. The ecosystem of rice paddies criss-crossed by waterways hosts a wealth of wildlife. The natural world of Ōmi offers a wealth of options for outdoor enjoyment.
The Ōmi region played an important role in Japanese history – its samurai shaped the outline of the national polity, while its merchants established many of the companies that form the backbone of the Japanese economy. This background is presented by numerous interesting museums.
Whether you’re looking for tasty snacks or souvenirs of Ōmi to take home, there’s something to please everyone.
The Ōmi region has some unique traditional festivals filled with brilliant decorations / fire, exuberance of the townspeople and respect for deities and ancestors. Come and experience the festivals which reflects various aspects of the society, spirituality and community values in Ōmi.
Getting around Ōmi is easy using the extensive public transport network.