Things To Do
in Rittō
Rittō is a compact city in Shiga Prefecture on the western edge of Lake Biwa’s surroundings, offering easy access to nature while staying within reach of Kyoto and Osaka. The city blends residential neighborhoods with green spaces, riverside scenery, and a relaxed pace of life. Visitors can explore tranquil temples, local eateries, and scenic bicycle routes along watercourses.
It serves as a gateway for day trips to western Shiga and central Japan, with occasional cultural events that showcase regional charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the famous Rittō-ji Temple, where you can admire its stunning architecture and serene gardens. Participate in a morning meditation session, allowing you to start the day with a clear mind and a sense of peace. As you walk through the temple grounds, take time to appreciate the intricate details of the carvings and the tranquility of your surroundings.
After lunch at a nearby café, explore the Kōdai-ji Temple, known for its beautiful Zen gardens and seasonal flower displays. Engage with local historians or guides who can share fascinating stories about the temple's history and its significance to the region. Wrap up your afternoon with a stroll through the quaint streets surrounding the temple, filled with charming shops and local artisan crafts.
As evening approaches, head to a traditional izakaya for dinner, where you can enjoy a variety of local dishes and sake. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as locals share stories and laughter, creating a warm and inviting environment. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, enjoying the reflections of the lights on the water and the peaceful sounds of nature.
Start your day with a refreshing hike along the trails of Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Bring a picnic breakfast to enjoy at a scenic overlook, where you can take in the serene beauty of the lake and the surrounding landscape. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various birds and butterflies, as you explore the diverse ecosystems.
In the afternoon, participate in kayaking or paddleboarding on the calm waters of Lake Biwa, providing a unique perspective of the area's natural beauty. Join a guided tour that includes insights about the lake's ecosystem and its historical significance to the region. Afterward, relax at a lakeside café, sipping on matcha while enjoying the sunset views over the water.
As night falls, gather around a fire pit at a local campground for a traditional Japanese BBQ experience. Share stories with fellow travelers and enjoy grilled local specialties, such as fresh fish from the lake. The evening ends with stargazing, where the clear skies and absence of city lights offer a dazzling view of the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $60-110 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $40-70 |
| 🚆Transit pass (1 day) | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Lake Biwa with easy day trips to Kyoto and Osaka
- Quiet, family-friendly charm with good dining options
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Language barrier in smaller establishments
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "いくらですか" - How much is this?
- "トイレはどこですか" - Where is the bathroom?
- "英語を話せますか" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Rittō
Visit one of these nice places.
A serene riverside area with walkways and seasonal plants, offering opportunities for sunset reflections on the water.
Open public space with architectural lines and people-watching moments, ideal for capturing daily life and transit activity.
A vantage point along the western shore where the lake and distant hills create expansive compositions.
Food in Rittō
Rittō Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Dishes featuring Omi beef, a famed local wagyu, served as steak, yakiniku, or shabu-shabu at select restaurants.
Must-Try!
A regional specialty from the Lake Biwa area, known for its distinct tangy flavor and traditional preparation methods.
Buckwheat noodles that reflect the region’s river-and-field influences, often enjoyed with simple dashi or toppings like tempura vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small, seasonal market area where you can sample fresh produce, pickled vegetables, and street-style bites from local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bow slightly when greeting, speak softly in public spaces, and line up patiently. Show appreciation with phrases like ‘arigatou gozaimasu’.
Remove shoes where required (homes and some traditional spaces) and follow signs in temples. Respect quiet hours and avoid loud conversation on public transport.
Safety
Tipping in Rittō
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan. Excellent service is expected as part of the standard experience; you can express thanks with a polite bow and a verbal thank you.
Cash is widely accepted, and major credit cards are increasingly common in shops and restaurants. Some small venues may prefer cash. IC cards and mobile payments are popular in urban areas and larger shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with high humidity; afternoons can be breezy near the lake. Stay hydrated, seek shade, and consider early-morning or late-evening outdoor activities to beat the heat.
Mild days with colorful foliage along foothill trails and riverside paths. A great time for photography and light hiking.
Cool to cold with occasional snowfall in higher areas; layering and warm beverages recommended. Indoor dining and cozy cafes are popular during evenings.
Pollinators and blossoms appear; pleasant temperatures and clear skies make it ideal for walks and cycling.
Rittō at Night
Hiking in Rittō
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged hillside trails with lake views in the surrounding area.
Forest paths and gentle climbs suitable for a day hike.
Airports
How to reach Rittō by plane.
Major international and domestic hub, about 1-1.5 hours by train from central Rittō
Lesser domestic hub, convenient for connections to western Japan
Nagoya area hub, longer transfer from Rittō
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families with school-age children; quiet neighborhoods.
Residents who travel to nearby cities for work, especially Osaka and Kyoto.
Several local schools and a campus community; a portion of the population studies at nearby universities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local and school-level games; easy to watch at parks and stadiums
Amateur leagues and school teams
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rittō.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dishes featuring tofu, eggplant, seasonal vegetables, and mushroom-based preparations. Ask for no dashi or fish-based toppings when needed, and consider soba or vegetable-based tempura options.