Omihachiman is not a very old town. It was founded only at the end 1500s by nephew of Toyomi Hideyoshi, the unifier of Japan and founder of Osaka Castle. Even though it is “quite young”, the city centre features picturesque wooden houses lined along a canal. Over the centuries, Omihachiman prospered as a business hub due to its convenient location on the ancient Nakasendo Highway between Tokyo and Kyoto. Merchants of the area accumulated a small fortune and built their houses and shops that are still there today. You can visit Nishikawa Residence to see how people lived here in the past. One of the best-preserved streets is Shinmachi Merchant Street.
Omihachiman is located on the shores of Lake Biwa, in Shiga Prefecture. From the lake, there are canals cutting through the town, where you can embark on a boat tour. The most famous one is Hachiman-bori Canal in the city centre.
Mount Hachiman is rising above the town and it has great views over the Lake Biwa. You can either hike up there, or take Hachimanyama Ropeway. Omihachiman is also home to Omi beef, one of the top 3 wagyu beef producers in Japan with the longest history of 400 years.
On the north of the town, there’s also a very picturesque confectionery called La Collina. They sell their own home-made pastry, such as Baumkuchen, but there’s also a café, outdoor space, garden, shops and several spots to take photos.
it’s very nice and clear, I think perfectly described places and beautiful photos.
it is the inspiration for people who want to visit the Japan:-)