Things To Do
in Moriyama

Moriyama is a charming city located in Shiga Prefecture, Japan, known for its scenic views of Lake Biwa and rich cultural heritage. The city offers a blend of traditional Japanese architecture and modern amenities, making it an attractive destination for travelers. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities, including hiking and cycling, as well as exploring local temples and shrines.

Moriyama is also famous for its delicious local cuisine, providing a genuine taste of Japanese culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Moriyama
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Hōkō-ji Temple, where you can admire the intricate architecture and serene gardens.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local café, head to the Moriyama City Museum to learn about the city's history and culture.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, trying various Japanese dishes and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a bike ride along the shores of Lake Biwa, taking in the stunning views and fresh air.

afternoon
:

Visit the Biwako Waterfowl Wetland Center to observe various migratory birds and learn about the local ecosystem.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a relaxing meal at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood while watching the sunset.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$8
Coffee$3
🍺Beer$5
🏨Budget Hotel Night$60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery, especially around Lake Biwa.
  • Rich cultural heritage with numerous temples and museums.
  • Relaxed atmosphere compared to larger cities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to urban centers.
  • Some language barriers for non-Japanese speakers.
  • Public transport may be less frequent than in bigger cities.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Moriyama

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Biwa

The largest lake in Japan, offering stunning views during sunrise and sunset.

Hōkō-ji Temple

A picturesque temple with beautiful gardens, perfect for capturing traditional Japanese architecture.

Shiga Prefectural Art Museum

Modern architecture set against natural landscapes, ideal for contemporary photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Moriyama

Moriyama offers a delightful culinary experience with its focus on fresh, local ingredients and traditional Japanese flavors.

Moriyama Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Biwako Sushi

A local delicacy made with fresh fish from Lake Biwa, often served with vinegared rice.

Must-Try!

Yudofu

A simple yet flavorful dish featuring boiled tofu, often served with a soy-based dipping sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Moriyama Food Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food.

Yaki Imo Stands

Vendors selling roasted sweet potatoes, a popular snack in Japan, especially in the colder months.

Climate Guide

Weather

Moriyama experiences four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) is mild, with cherry blossoms blooming in April. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). Autumn (September to November) is cool, with beautiful fall foliage. Winter (December to February) is cold, with temperatures often dropping below 0°C (32°F) and occasional snowfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for customs

Always bow when greeting someone and remove shoes when entering someone's home.

Quiet public spaces

Keep noise to a minimum in public places, especially on public transportation.

Proper dining etiquette

Say 'Itadakimasu' before meals and 'Gochisousama' after eating as a sign of gratitude.

Safety Guide

Safety

Moriyama is considered a very safe city for travelers. Violent crime is rare, but petty crime like pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas. It's advisable to keep personal belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies.

Tipping in Moriyama

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping is uncommon

In Japan, tipping is not expected, and good service is considered standard.

Cash is king

While credit cards are accepted in many places, cash is still the preferred payment method in smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with cherry blossoms blooming, making it a popular season for picnics and outdoor festivals.

Summer

Warm and humid, ideal for enjoying water activities at Lake Biwa, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, especially around the lake and parks.

Winter

Cold with occasional snowfall, perfect for enjoying hot meals and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Moriyama at Night

Moriyama's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but visitors can find cozy izakayas, bars, and karaoke spots. Enjoy a relaxed evening with friends over drinks and traditional Japanese snacks. The atmosphere is friendly and inviting, making it a great place for socializing.

Hiking in Moriyama

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kongō-san Trail

A moderate hike that offers stunning views of Lake Biwa and the surrounding countryside.

Hira Mountains Trail

A more challenging hike with diverse flora and fauna, providing breathtaking panoramic views.

Airports

How to reach Moriyama by plane.

Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Located approximately 90 minutes from Moriyama, this major airport serves as a hub for international flights and offers various transportation options to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Moriyama is a relatively walkable city, especially around the lake and in the downtown area. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, some areas may require a bike or public transport for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

A significant demographic in Moriyama, attracted by the city's peaceful environment and good schools.

Retirees

Many retirees choose Moriyama for its slow pace of life, recreational opportunities, and beautiful surroundings.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A highly popular sport in Japan, often played at local schools and parks.

Soccer

Growing in popularity, with local teams participating in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Moriyama is generally light, with minimal congestion. Public transportation includes buses and trains, which are reliable and connect well with neighboring cities. Biking is also a popular mode of transport, especially along the lakeside.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Moriyama.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, especially in traditional settings.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but rice-based dishes can be found.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Moriyama is of high quality, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency medical services are prompt, and most medical staff are trained to handle English-speaking patients. Travel insurance is recommended for international visitors.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide