2025 Koka Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

MIHO MUSEUM is a private art museum located in Koka City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan. Its founder is Mihoko Koyama, the founder of the Shinji Hidemei-kai. The museum was designed by the famous architect I.M. Pei and officially opened in November 1997. At that time, it was selected as one of the top ten buildings in the world by Time magazine. 💞Recommended reasons: MIHO MUSEUM has beautiful scenery and a quiet environment. It is recommended to visit during the cherry blossom season. The branches in the photo are full of pink cherry blossoms, which must be even more beautiful. 💰Average consumption per person: 1000 yen 🕰️Business hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00am to 5:00pm Monday: Closed (but if Monday is a national holiday, it will be closed on Tuesday) 📍Address: Tashiro 300, Shigaraki-cho, Koka City, Shiga Prefecture, Japan* #MarchGoodPlaces2025

An art museum surrounded by nature on a vast site 🌿 The building was designed by world-renowned architect I.M. Pei, famous for the glass pyramid at the Louvre! When the sunlight shone through, it was fantastic and very beautiful ✨ The tunnel leading to the museum is also very mysterious 😌 The tunnel, covered with silver walls, reflects cherry blossoms in spring 🌸 and autumn leaves 🍁 in autumn, allowing you to enjoy different expressions with each season 𓂃𓈒𓏸 ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ ❁ ❁ ❁ ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈ ☑︎300 Tashiro Momodani, Shigaraki-cho, Koka-shi, Shiga ☑︎Opening hours: 10:00-17:00 (last entry 16:00) ☑︎Closed: Mondays during spring, summer, and fall, and during each opening period (next weekday if a public holiday falls on a Monday) ☑︎Admission fee: 1300 yen for adults, 1000 yen for high school and university students, free for elementary and junior high school students ☑︎Parking available (free) #mihomuseum #shigatourism #shigatrip #shigadrive #domestictriptrip

#100 Travel Styles Tamura Shrine A Shiga Prefecture's No. 1 festival, visited by 150,000 people over three days! The Great Evil-Removal Festival (Tamura Shrine) is currently being held on 2/17, 18, and 19. Photo taken at Shiga (lower part). Title: Great Evil-Removal Festival Address: 469 Kitatsuchiyama, Shiyama-cho, Koka-shi, Shiga P. Free parking available! The Great Evil-Removal Festival is currently being held! 150,000 people visit over three days every year! There are probably at least 50 stalls!! There's a lot of food, like ramen, takoyaki, crepes, melon bread, steamed oysters, fried chicken, salt-grilled sweetfish, and more! #Tamura Shrine #Shiga #Shiga Tourist Spots #Shiga Toko #Shiga Photography Club #Want to connect with people who like photography

#FuriTabi #Shiga #ShigaTourism #Koka #KokaCity #Shigaraki #Pottery #Kiln #KilnTour 📍1087 Nagano, Shigaraki-cho, Koka-shi, Shiga 🕰️10:00-18:00 (10:00-17:00 in winter) Closed: Mondays and the second and fourth Tuesdays "TUBO-BUN" is a place where you can buy stylish Shigaraki ware. You'll come across the shop as you walk up the hill lined with houses, wondering if there's a shop in a place like this. At first glance, it looks like a warehouse, but once inside, there's a sophisticated atmosphere, and many of the vessels and accessories on display are simple and modern in design. From November 1, 2023, the brand name will be changed from "Bungoro Kiln" to "TSUBO-BUN", and the romanized notation is said to convey the intention to create vessels that are loved by people all over the world.

#besttrip2023 MIHO MUSEUM in Shiga: Harmony between beauty and nature 🏛️🌿 MIHO MUSEUM in Shiga is a wonderful museum where beauty and nature are in perfect harmony. The building itself blends in with the environment and is one with the beautiful nature. The museum is located in a lush hilly area, and nature, which changes with the seasons, is part of the exhibits. Artworks are collected from all over the world, and the works in the collection create a sense of unity between the building and the surrounding landscape. MIHO MUSEUM is beautifully designed, and natural materials such as stone and wood are used. When you step inside the museum, you can feel the harmony between art and nature, which will truly move you. This museum is a place full of artistic charm and natural beauty, and a memorable experience befitting the scenic location of Shiga awaits you. 🏛️🌿 📍300 Tashiro Momodani, Shigaraki-cho, Koka-shi, Shiga-ken, 529-1814 #MIHOMUSEUM #museum #harmonyofnature #beautyofshiga #besttrip2023

This time we introduce a museum that is very suitable for taking pictures, the Miho Museum in Shiga. This museum was designed by the master architect Mr. Pei Yuming and was opened in 1997. The entire art gallery is built against the mountain, even visiting now feels very contemporary, and the environment is very beautiful, giving people the feeling that the whole building is already a work of art. Art Gallery Tickets 1300Yen, the museum has a very rich collection, and the exhibits are also very diverse, if you visit carefully you can see most of the day! However, since photography is prohibited in various exhibition halls in the museum, I can't share it for everyone to see. Overall, I highly recommend it to friends who like to visit the art gallery. If you have the opportunity, you can come and visit! #Japan must-see photo spots #overseas travel #art gallery

#Japan Attractions Shiga🇯🇵 Kashin Strawberry Garden🍓 One of the unforgettable activities of this 5-day self-drive trip to Japan is picking strawberries in the greenhouse🍓! By car from Kyoto, Strawberry 🍓 Garden has free parking 🅿️ ~ very convenient ~ Remember to book the date and time online in advance and pay when you arrive ~ This time you can pick strawberries in the greenhouse for 45 minutes🍓, the staff teaches how to choose big and sweet strawberries, and picking techniques~~ There are many greenhouses here, a total of 35000 😛😛 Strawberries 🍓 and big and sweet, very tasty 😍 I probably ate the most strawberries a day! Strawberry picking here🍓 no need to squat, no mosquitoes, no mud, very clean ~ ~ Cost: Approximately HK$135/person/45 minutes address: 〒528-0005 5940-4 Mizuguchi, Mizuguchi-cho, Koga, Shiga Prefecture (in the みなくちテクノスファーム) #Japan #Shiga #japan #travel #triptojapan #2023 #Dekashin Iki Garden #Dekashin Yuki Garden🍓 #strawberry #🍓 #strawberry #fresh #foodiewendyhk #new yeargoodplace #HongKonggoodplace

Miho Museum in Koka City, Shiga Prefecture The museum is actually about 500m from the parking lot. You can get there by bus, but you can also walk. The view of the museum beyond the tunnel is apparently very popular in spring for cherry blossom viewing. #museum #gw2022jp

Miho Museum in Koka, Shiga Prefecture Today's special exhibition was a kaiseki cuisine pottery exhibition. As Koka is famous for Shigaraki ware, it was a very extravagant exhibition. The tea utensils used in tea ceremonies left a strong impression on me. I enjoyed the glamorous culture of the Azuchi-Momoyama period. #museum #gw2022jp

While in Kyoto, we took a short excursion and visited Miho Museum(Koka city Shiga prefecture, Japan). A real architectural gem of IM Pei with an impressive collection of antiques from different parts of the world. The edgy museum building itself blends in perfectly with the beautiful natural surroundings. Recommend spending a whole day here.

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip The Shiga Prefectural Ceramic Cultural Park, located in Koka City, the home of Shigaraki ware, is a cultural facility where pottery and art blend into the vast nature. It is a space where your senses will be sharpened just by walking around, with museums, pottery experience studios, and artist stay and production spaces scattered around. 🎨 The key points for this trip are to "walk around the free area" and "make a reservation in advance for the experience studio." Even beginners can easily experience pottery, so it's perfect for making memories! There are also plenty of seasonal exhibitions and events, so you'll find something new no matter how many times you visit. ✨ Why not spend some luxurious time experiencing art in nature? [Access] About a 20-minute walk from Shigaraki Station on the Shigaraki Kogen Railway. We also recommend renting a bicycle from the station. 🚲 Domestic travel #couple trip #solo trip #absolutelyfree trip #Shiga Prefectural Ceramic Cultural Park #Shigaraki ware #pottery experience #art trip #nature and art #Shiga sightseeing

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip When you think of Koga, you think of ninjas! "Koga Ninja Village" is a theme park where you can experience the history and techniques of ninjas, and is a spot that can be enjoyed by both children and adults 🎯 There are plenty of experiences that will make you feel like you've traveled back in time, such as throwing shuriken, searching for traps in a ninja house, and renting ninja costumes! The key to success is to enter the village first thing in the morning and rent a costume. Conquer the photogenic spots before it gets crowded and enjoy the ninja feeling 📸 There are also free exhibits that are recommended for history lovers. Couples can also have fun cosplaying as ninjas 💑 [Access] About 10 minutes by taxi from JR Konan Station. If you're driving, it's about 5 minutes from the Konan IC on the Shin-Meishin Expressway, so it's easy to access 🚗 Domestic travel #Couple trip #Solo trip #Absolutely free trip #Koga Ninja Village #Ninja experience #Shuriken throwing #Ninja costume #Shiga trip #Theme park

⭐️ : Ogama 📍Address: 947 Nagano, Shigaraki-cho, Koka-shi, Shiga 529-1851 🕰️Business hours: 10:00-16:30 ___________________________________________ Shigaraki is a famous pottery producing area. This cafe and gallery is marked by a magnificent climbing kiln in Shigaraki☝🏻The best part is that you can see the climbing kiln in action◎Also, it's worth the experience just to see the beautiful pottery in the gallery☺️ #absolutely free trip #domestic trip #shiga

⭐️ : Kurodaen 📍Address: 271-1 Kamiasamiya, Shigaraki-cho, Koka-shi, Shiga 529-1841 🕰️Business hours: 11:00-17:00 __________________________________________ A popular soba restaurant in Asamiya, Shigaraki. It is a very popular restaurant on weekends. You can enjoy delicious soba in a quaint restaurant in an old house with an irori hearth⭐️This is a recommended restaurant for sightseeing in Shigaraki☝🏻 #Domestic travel #Shiga #Absolutely free trip

🍚: Clay Pot Rice & CAFE Mutsuan 📍Address: 401 Kamiyama, Shigaraki-cho, Koka-shi, Shiga 529-1812 🕰️Business hours: 11:00-15:30 ___________________________________________ A shop in Shigaraki, Shiga, famous for its pottery. First of all, you can choose your own chopstick rest and rice bowl☝🏻And best of all, you can eat freshly cooked rice in a clay pot☝🏻⭐️It's a spot you can't miss when you come to Shigaraki🍚 #AbsolutelyFreeTrip #DomesticTrip #Shiga

☕️ : TORASARU 📍Address: 1970-4, Chokushi, Shigaraki-cho, Koka-shi, Shiga-ken 529-1804 🕰️Business hours: 11:00-18:00 ___________________________________________ A cafe popular for its cheesecake. Located in Shigaraki, Shiga Prefecture, Shigaraki is synonymous with Shigaraki ware. There are many kilns making pottery in the area. This shop also serves coffee and cakes in Shigaraki ware◎ They also sell pottery, so you can buy some to take home. When you're traveling to Shigaraki, be sure to stop by here for some delicious desserts and nice souvenirs☝🏻⭐️ #absolutelyfreetrip #domestictrip #shiga

⭐️ : MIHO MUSEUM 📍Location: 〒529-1814 Shiga Prefecture, 300 Koka City, Shigaraki Town, Tashiro Momodani ____________________________________________ This museum is located in the mountains of Koka City, Shiga Prefecture. Designed by architect I. M. Pei, the building hosts exhibitions and displays of ancient art and antiques. Visitors pass through a tunnel to reach the main building, offering breathtaking views along the way. The interior features abundant glass, allowing visitors to enjoy the surrounding scenery. Natural light fills the space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

⭐️ : NOTA_SHOP / NOTA & design 📍Address: 2317 Chokushi, Shigaraki-cho, Koka-shi, Shiga 529-1804 🕰️Business hours: 11:30-18:00 ____________________________________________ "Nota Shop" A gallery shop run by "NOTA & design", which designs lifestyle items and produces and sells pottery. Deep in Shigaraki, Shiga Prefecture. You can see this shop as you walk along a road surrounded by mountains. The interior of the store is sophisticated, stylish, yet warm. The beautifully displayed works, like those in a museum, are available for purchase. There is also a cafe on site, so you can take a break. ☕️ #AbsolutelyFreeTrip #DomesticTrip #Shiga

#cityplaybook Looking for a peaceful escape filled with charm and creativity? Head to Shigaraki in Shiga Prefecture—famous for its pottery and home to some of Japan’s cutest art! First stop: Shiga Prefectural Ceramic Cultural Park. Nestled in the hills, this open-air art park showcases ceramic sculptures in harmony with nature. It’s relaxing just to stroll around and admire the art scattered across the landscape. Then I visited Tanuki Mura, a village full of whimsical raccoon dog (tanuki) statues. Each has its own quirky personality—from traditional to funny or fashionable. It’s impossible not to smile here! You can also shop for pottery and enjoy light snacks. Why I recommend this area: ・You can enjoy art surrounded by nature in a peaceful countryside setting ・It’s a fun, family-friendly destination with plenty of photo ops! 📍Shigaraki, Kōka City, Shiga Prefecture #ShigaArtTrip #ShigarakiTanuki #CeramicCulturalPark #JapanHiddenGems #TanukiVillage #PotteryAdventure #CityPlaybook

🎌 *Explore Osaka: Architectural Aesthetics x Fantasy Park x Food Adventure* 🎌 Osaka is a city full of surprises, from humanities and arts to thrilling theme parks to mouth-watering food, every moment is worth looking forward to! 🏛 *Miho Museum: I.M. Pei’s architectural masterpiece* Designed by *I.M. Pei*, this art museum in Shiga Prefecture is inspired by *Peach Blossom Spring* and cleverly blends natural landscape with modern architecture, making it feel like stepping into an ideal world. The glass and steel structure reflects the surrounding greenery, immersing people in the intersection of tranquility and art. 🎢 *USJ Park: Mario Park is super exciting! * Entering *Super Nintendo World* is like truly stepping into Mario’s world! The exciting Mario Kart, the interactive game area, and the perfectly restored classic scenes in the park immerse people in a game-like fantasy journey. Both adults and children can have a great time! 🍜 *Osaka food, satisfy your taste buds! * Osaka is a "foodie paradise"! Crispy and rich *kushikatsu*, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside *takoyaki*, rich *okonomiyaki*, every bite is full of authentic flavor. In addition, various types of ramen, sushi, and wagyu barbecue are even more unforgettable, and each dish represents the unique charm of Osaka. A trip to Osaka is an unforgettable experience, from the beauty of the architecture to the joy of the theme parks to the ultimate enjoyment of the food! Which place in Osaka do you most want to visit? ✨ #OsakaTravel #Miho Museum #I.M.Pei Design #USJ #SuperNintendoWorld #OsakaFoodAdventure

#EnjoyJapan I went to Tamura Shrine in Koka City, Shiga Prefecture! This shrine enshrines Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, the Shogun of the Expeditionary Forces of the Barbarians, as its main deity. It is known for the legend that he defeated the demon of Suzuka Pass. It is said to be a shrine that provides protection from evil and road safety. It is also famous for its annual festival for protection from evil. It is held for three days from February 18th. If you are in Shiga Prefecture, why not come and visit the shrine? 📍Address: 469 Kitatsuchiyama, Tsuchiyama-cho, Koka City, Shiga Prefecture 528-0211

I visited the MIHO Museum located in Shigaraki, Shiga Prefecture. Since public transportation is inconvenient, I recommend going by car. There are signs at key points, so you shouldn't get lost. During cherry blossom season, many tourists visit. The cherry blossoms along the path to the tunnel are unique and unlike those you usually see, and they are breathtaking when in full bloom. The view of the cherry blossoms from the tunnel is also incredibly beautiful. After passing through the long tunnel, you'll find the museum, which is also worth enjoying.

#cherryblossom25 A friend recommended visiting Ayugawa Senbonzakura for cherry blossom viewing, and I just happened to catch it at its full bloom today! 🌸 It was truly a sight to behold. The vibrant pink and white petals swaying in the breeze, set against the backdrop of the tranquil countryside, really made the experience feel magical. The peaceful atmosphere of rural Japan, combined with the beauty of the cherry blossoms, made it feel like I was stepping into a serene dream. This year, I’ve already seen enough cherry blossoms to last me a lifetime, but there's always something so special about experiencing them in the countryside. The charm of smaller, quieter locations like Ayugawa Senbonzakura is truly unbeatable compared to the more crowded spots in the city. 🌸 #naturalwonders

✔️NOTA_SHOP / NOTA & design A wide range of items, including pottery, clothing, and miscellaneous goods, are displayed with a good sense of style, and you can purchase anything you like! Many of the designs are simple and easy to pick up◎ Not only the products, but the displays and interior are also very stylish, and the calm atmosphere of the store was nice🪵 The road to the store is a narrow single road, so please be careful when driving⚠️ [Address] 2317, Chokushi, Shigaraki-cho, Koka-shi, Shiga-ken 529-1804 [Business hours] 11:30-18:00 #0 yen trip #Shiga prefecture

🌸🏛 Hidden Sanctuary in the Mountains—Complete Guide to Japan's Miho Museum ✨🍃 Have you ever dreamed of a museum nestled deep in the mountains, seamlessly blending with nature, where stepping inside feels like entering a mystical world straight out of a Hayao Miyazaki film? If your answer is "yes," then make sure to add the Miho Museum to your travel list. This is not just a museum; it’s a perfect encounter between soul and nature, architecture and art. 🔹 Architectural Marvel in Nature｜An Eastern Utopia by I.M. Pei Located in the mountains of Shigaraki, Shiga Prefecture, the Miho Museum was designed by world-renowned architect I.M. Pei, the mastermind behind the Louvre Pyramid and countless other iconic structures. To Pei, the Miho Museum is one of his "most personal and idealistic" creations. Over 80% of the museum is "hidden within the mountains," embodying a harmonious coexistence of modernity and nature. The design utilizes the natural terrain, making it both discreet and magnificent. Before entering the museum, visitors pass through a long silver tunnel and an elegant suspension bridge, as if transitioning from the real world into a realm of fantasy. Every detail—from the lighting to the materials and curves—was meticulously crafted by Pei, showcasing the concept of "architecture as art." 🔹 Rich Art Collection｜A Journey Through Civilizations The Miho Museum boasts an impressive collection of over 3,000 precious artifacts from around the world. From ancient Egyptian relics and Greco-Roman art to treasures from Central Asia along the Silk Road, as well as Chinese Tang and Song ceramics and ancient Japanese Buddhist statues, each piece tells a story from a distant past. Although only a portion of the collection is displayed during exhibitions, the museum’s minimalist design emphasizes the dignity and tranquility of the artifacts, making every visit feel like a meditative journey through millennia. 🔹 Enchanting Seasonal Scenery｜Highly Recommended: Spring Cherry Blossoms 🌸 Visiting the Miho Museum in spring is truly a treat. The cherry blossoms here are known as the "pink miracle of Kansai’s hidden gem." As you ascend the mountain path, delicate pink and white petals adorn the slopes, and a gentle breeze scatters them like snow. The view at the end of the tunnel leading to the museum, with soft light filtering through the cherry blossoms, is often described by photographers as a "once-in-a-lifetime shot." In autumn, the museum transforms into a haven of vibrant foliage, with golden and crimson hues weaving through the stone architecture, creating a poetic atmosphere. 🔹 Transportation & Tips From Kyoto, take the JR train to "Ishiyama Station," then transfer to a bus that takes you directly to the museum entrance. Despite its remote location, public transportation is straightforward, adding a sense of "ritual" to the journey of discovering this hidden gem. 🎫 It’s recommended to book tickets in advance. The museum is not open year-round and operates based on exhibition schedules, so check the official website to avoid disappointment. 🪷 The Miho Museum is not just a place to admire art; it’s an immersive journey into beauty. It’s a dialogue between architecture, nature, light, and shadow—a resonance of civilization and soul. If you love art, cherish tranquility, and seek an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, this will undoubtedly be one of the most breathtaking and unforgettable stops on your journey.

#aprilblooms It is said that it began when the Nara period about 1,300 years ago, Gyogi Bodhisattva, who visited this place, built a pond in the shape of a heart character, built the main hall almost in the middle of the four ponds, and enshrined a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, which is said to be the work of Gyogi Bosatsu. At the time of its founding, it was the Tendai sect, but it was replaced by Zen sect in the Kamakura period, and then the temple was burned down due to the war disaster of the Sengoku period. However, it is said that only the statue of Shakyamuni Buddha created by Gyoki Bosatsu was miraculously burned. In the Edo period, it was revived by the efforts of Zen master Jogan Jiko. At this time, the name was changed to "Oike-ji Temple". Currently, in the temple, you can see the main hall, which was revived in the Edo period, almost as it was at that time.

#springwander A museum located in the southern part of Shiga Prefecture in the green mountains of Shigaraki. The collection includes about 3,000 pieces of ancient art such as Egypt, Greece, Rome, West Asia, South Asia, and China, as well as Japanese art such as Buddhist art and tea ceremony art. Among them, about 250 items are always on display and public. In addition to valuable art appreciation, MIHO MUSEUM is also attracting worldwide attention for its architectural beauty. From the reception building to the museum building, move the approach road about 500 metres across the valley. The space with a site area of 300,000 tsubo is designed with the motif of "Togenkyo".

| Suzuka Mountains: Discover the Most Beautiful Mountain Scenery in Mie Prefecture! 👍 Why visit: Hiking, autumn leaves, skiing, and hot springs - surprises in every season! 📍 The Suzuka Mountains (Suzuka Mountains) stretch across Mie and Shiga Prefectures, making them a famous hiking destination in the Kansai region! Besides its magnificent mountain scenery, it's also popular for hiking, autumn leaf viewing, skiing, hot springs, and various outdoor activities! 🔥 The Suzuka Mountains offer different natural experiences in all four seasons: •Spring🌸: Cherry blossoms in full bloom, perfect season for hiking! •Summer🌿: A cool retreat with forest hiking and stream activities! •Fall🍁: Known as "Kansai's most beautiful hidden autumn spot" with red maple leaves! •Winter❄️: Skiing and hot springs amid dreamy snowy mountain views! ⸻ 📅 Travel Guide: How to make the most of your visit? 🏔️ 1. Mt. Gozaisho - Symbol of the Suzuka Mountains •At 1,212m, it's the signature peak and a popular spot for hiking and autumn leaves! •🚠 Gozaisho Ropeway: Easy access to the summit with views of Yokkaichi city and Ise Bay. Stunning red leaves cover the slopes in fall! •⛰️ Hiking route: Perfect for hiking enthusiasts, takes 2-3 hours from the base, with beautiful views along the way! 🍁 2. Autumn Leaves Paradise: Suzuka Skyline •Recommended in fall (mid-October to early November), drive through tunnels of red leaves along Suzuka Skyline - absolutely spectacular! 🍂🚗 •A famous "momiji hunting" spot with stunning autumn views throughout! 🎿 3. Winter Skiing: Gozaisho Ski Resort •Transforms into a ski paradise from mid-December to March! ⛷️ •Suitable for beginners with courses for advanced skiers too, enjoy skiing with mountain views! ❄️ ♨️ 4. Yunoyama Onsen - Perfect combination of skiing and hot springs! •Relax in this 1,300-year-old hidden hot spring after skiing or hiking! ♨️ •Recommended: Stay at an onsen ryokan to enjoy hot springs while viewing mountain scenery! ⸻ 🚗 How to get there: 📍 Location: Border of Yokkaichi, Mie Prefecture & Shiga Prefecture 🚆 Train + Bus: Take Mie Kotsu Bus from Kintetsu Yokkaichi Station, about 50 minutes to Gozaisho Ropeway Station 🚗 Driving: About 1 hour from Nagoya via Higashi-Meihan Expressway ⸻ 💗 Additional Tips ✔ Best seasons: 🍁Fall (autumn leaves) & ❄️Winter (ski season) are most beautiful! ✔ Hiking tips: Take the ropeway if you're a beginner, hiking trails for intermediate to advanced hikers ✔ Autumn viewing: Best from mid-October to early November, avoid weekends during autumn leaf season! ✔ Skiing reminder: Book ski equipment rental in advance to avoid peak season shortages! ⸻ 🌟 Suzuka Mountains - A natural paradise beautiful in all seasons! ⛰️🍁 A must-visit for hiking, autumn leaves, skiing, or hot spring enthusiasts! 🎿♨️