Things To Do
in Rittō

Rittō is a charming city located in Shiga Prefecture, Japan, known for its beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled between Lake Biwa and the surrounding mountains, it offers a unique blend of urban and rural experiences. The city is famous for its historical sites, including ancient temples and shrines, as well as serene parks and gardens.

With convenient access to Kyoto and Nagoya, Rittō serves as an excellent base for exploring the Kansai region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Rittō's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Rittō-ji Temple, a historic site featuring beautiful architecture and tranquil gardens.

afternoon
:

Head to the Rittō City Museum to learn about the local history and culture, followed by a stroll through the nearby Rittō Park.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, sampling traditional Japanese dishes and engaging with the friendly locals.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a scenic walk along the shores of Lake Biwa, where you can enjoy the picturesque views and fresh air.

afternoon
:

Visit the Biwaichi Cycling Road for a leisurely bike ride around the lake, stopping at local cafes for refreshments.

evening
:

Relax at an onsen (hot spring) in the area, soaking in the natural minerals and enjoying the serene atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi meal$20
🍵Matcha tea$5
🍜Ramen bowl$10
🚍Bus ticket$2
🏨Hotel night$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Less crowded than major tourist destinations.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Some language barriers for non-Japanese speakers.
  • Public transportation options may be less frequent.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "おいしいです" - It's delicious
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Rittō

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Biwa

The largest freshwater lake in Japan, offering stunning sunrise and sunset views, perfect for landscape photography.

Rittō-ji Temple

The beautiful gardens and traditional architecture of this temple provide a serene backdrop for captivating shots.

Shidarezakura at Rittō Park

Famous for its weeping cherry blossoms in spring, this park is a popular spot for photographing the stunning pink blooms.

Culinary Guide

Food in Rittō

Rittō offers a diverse culinary scene that showcases the flavors of the Shiga region. Visitors can indulge in local specialties and fresh ingredients sourced from nearby farms and lakes.

Rittō Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Yudofu

A simple yet delicious dish made of boiled tofu, often served with a dipping sauce, showcasing the region's high-quality soy products.

Must-Try!

Omi Beef

Considered one of Japan's top three beef brands, Omi Beef is known for its tenderness and rich flavor, often enjoyed in various styles including shabu-shabu.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Rittō Morning Market

A local market held on weekends, featuring fresh produce, handmade goods, and delicious street food options like yakitori and takoyaki.

Climate Guide

Weather

Rittō experiences a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F), while winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. Rainfall is common throughout the year, especially during the summer months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

Bowing is a common greeting and sign of respect in Japan. A slight bow is appropriate when meeting someone.

Shoes Off Indoors

It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and certain traditional accommodations, like ryokans.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintaining a quiet demeanor in public spaces, especially on public transport, is considered respectful.

Safety Guide

Safety

Rittō is generally a safe city, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and keep personal belongings secure. In case of emergencies, the local police and hospitals are easily accessible.

Tipping in Rittō

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be considered rude. Exceptional service is simply expected.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many places. ATMs that accept foreign cards are available in convenience stores.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild weather and beautiful cherry blossoms, making it a popular time for festivals and outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). It's a great time for water sports on Lake Biwa.

Autumn

Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, especially in parks and temples, creating picturesque environments for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winters are cold, with occasional snowfall, providing opportunities for winter sports and hot spring visits.

Nightlife Guide

Rittō at Night

Rittō offers a laid-back nightlife scene with a mix of izakayas, karaoke bars, and local pubs. Although it's not as bustling as larger cities, visitors can enjoy authentic Japanese dining and drinks in cozy settings. Many establishments close by midnight, making it a more relaxed evening experience, but still a great opportunity to socialize and explore local flavors.

Hiking in Rittō

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Hiei Trail

A scenic hiking trail that leads to the summit of Mount Hiei, offering breathtaking views of Lake Biwa and the surrounding area.

Kongō-ji Temple Trail

This trail takes hikers through beautiful forested areas to the historic Kongō-ji Temple, combining nature and culture.

Airports

How to reach Rittō by plane.

Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Located approximately 100 km from Rittō, this major international airport serves as the main gateway for international travelers coming to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Rittō is a walkable city with pedestrian-friendly streets, especially in the downtown area. Many attractions, restaurants, and parks are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are crosswalks at major intersections to ensure safety.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Rittō has a growing population of young families attracted to the area's quality of life and educational opportunities.

Retirees

The serene environment and access to nature make Rittō appealing to retirees seeking a peaceful place to live.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Rittō, with local teams and schools actively participating in regional leagues.

Soccer

Soccer has a growing following, with community leagues and youth programs encouraging participation among locals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Rittō is generally manageable, with main roads connecting to nearby cities. Public transportation includes buses and trains, which are reliable and punctual. Biking is also a popular and practical way to navigate the area, especially around Lake Biwa.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Rittō.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While traditional Japanese cuisine often includes fish and meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian options, especially in urban areas.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but rice and naturally gluten-free dishes like sashimi are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Rittō is accessible, with several clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are efficient, and many doctors speak basic English. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide