5 Best & Authentic Souvenirs from Shiga & Lake Biwa: Japan Travel Guide

Want to take home wonderful gifts to commemorate your trip to Shiga Prefecture and the beautiful Lake Biwa? This article introduces five carefully selected local specialties perfect for people of all ages. From cotton hand towels and linen tissue cases to Lake Biwa ayu (sweetfish) and Hikonyan-themed chocolates, we offer a diverse range of options. Choose the perfect souvenir to cherish your travel memories and delight your loved ones (or yourself!).

Lake Biwa Cotton Hand Towels: A Taste of Shiga's Charm

These 35x90cm cotton hand towels are made from high-quality Takashima cotton from Shiga Prefecture. Eight designs showcase iconic Shiga motifs: the beautiful nature of Lake Biwa, the historical Koka ninjas, adorable waterfowl, and more. Priced at ¥1,650, these towels offer a tangible piece of Shiga's charm. The soft, high-quality fabric makes them perfect for everyday use – a must-buy souvenir or a treat for yourself.

Each design represents the diverse beauty of Shiga: the calm waters of Lake Biwa, the stories of the Koka ninjas, beautiful Shigaraki pottery, and more. Enjoy the unique warmth of each hand-printed towel, with its subtly varied patterns.

Elegant Linen Tissue Cases: A Touch of Shiga's Tradition

Experience the rich natural beauty and tradition of Lake Biwa with this linen tissue case. Its compact 9.5x13.5cm size is perfect for bags. Made in Japan with 100% Koto-asa (Lake East hemp) fabric, this exquisite item boasts a soft, luxurious feel. Choose from six designs featuring water shield, Koka ninjas, Lake Biwa waterfowl, and more. An ideal gift or self-indulgence.

Perfect for everyday use or travel. For only ¥1,100, you can own this high-quality linen piece with its lovely design, capturing the essence of Shiga.

Lake Biwa's Bounty: Delicious Ayu (Sweetfish) Dried Overnight

3-Piece Set

Enjoy fresh ayu (sweetfish) carefully dried overnight. This 3-piece set is packed with minerals and vitamins, offering a refined, mild flavor suitable for all ages. The plump flesh and perfect saltiness make it a fantastic accompaniment to rice or sake. Vacuum-packed to maintain freshness, it can be stored frozen (90 days) or refrigerated (10 days). ¥972.

15-Piece Set (Large!)

Perfect for families and friends! This large 15-piece set (5 pieces x 3 bags) comes in a gift box with optional gift wrapping. ¥6290.

Hikonyan Lake Biwa Blue Chocolates: Adorable and Delicious

These chocolates feature Shiga's beloved mascot, Hikonyan, and the beautiful blue of Lake Biwa. Naturally colored vibrant blue using butterfly pea flower extract, these chocolates offer a smooth texture and subtly sweet aroma. The adorable Hikonyan illustrations make them perfect for gifts or personal enjoyment. 9 pieces for ¥1,000.

The stunning Lake Biwa blue color is perfect for photos and social media posts!

Conclusion: Make Your Shiga & Lake Biwa Memories Even More Special

Shiga and Lake Biwa souvenirs are perfect for commemorating your trip and making thoughtful gifts. Beyond these five items, many other attractive products await discovery. Find your perfect souvenir and treat yourself or a loved one to a truly memorable keepsake reflecting Shiga's rich nature and culture.