Shiga Prefecture isn’t just about scenic Lake Biwa and historic sites; it’s also a surprising hub for authentic drinking tours that showcase the region’s culinary and cultural flavors. Unlike more famous wine or beer destinations, Shiga offers intimate, locally rooted experiences like trying the one-of-a-kind Funasushi or exploring vibrant izakayas in historic towns. For example, the Local Food Exploring Funasushi Origin of Sushi Pared with Sake puts you face-to-face with a regional specialty that’s exclusive to Shiga—Funasushi, paired with regional sake, in a cozy Machiya bar. It’s perfect for sushi lovers wanting an authentic twist.
Several tours stand out for their combination of food and drink, local insight, and lively atmospheres. Whether you prefer a quick 45-minute taste of regional delicacies or a lively two-hour bar crawl, Shiga has options. We’ve chosen the best for a variety of tastes, interests, and budgets. Curious? Dive in to see which tour suits your style.
1. Local Food Exploring Funasushi Origin of Sushi Pared with Sake
This experience offers a chance to meet the origin of sushi in Japan—Funasushi, a regional specialty that’s served only in Shiga. For about $35.43, you’ll enjoy trying three types of Funasushi with locally sourced sake, Shichihonyari, carefully chosen by the Kuramoto (brewery owner). Held at a private, cozy Machiya-style bar, this tour is more than just a tasting; it’s an immersion into local fermentation traditions.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on a region-specific dish that you can’t find elsewhere in Japan. The intimate setting allows for a detailed explanation of how Funasushi is made and how it differs from more widespread sushi. If you enjoy fermented foods, sake, and discovering lesser-known culinary traditions, this is a must-try. It’s short but packed with flavor and insight, perfect for a quick cultural fix.
While reviews are currently unavailable, the experience’s rarity and focus on local ingredients give it strong appeal. It’s best suited for sushi enthusiasts and those interested in regional Japanese food. Just note, it’s a brief experience, so plan to pair it with other explorations.
Bottom Line: Perfect for curious foodies eager to taste an exclusive regional specialty in a relaxed setting.
$35.43 per person
2. Shiga: Hikone Bar-Hopping Tour with Local Food and Drinks
At number 2, the Hikone Bar-Hopping Tour offers an energetic two hours exploring Hikone, a historic castle town on Lake Biwa. For around $138, you’ll enjoy visits to two carefully selected izakayas, where you’ll sample food worth ¥1,500 and regional sake.
Hikone is known for its preserved castle and authentic local flavor, making it a natural setting for a lively night out. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who shares stories about Hikone’s samurai past and its vibrant local food scene. Highlights include tasting Omi beef—famous for its tenderness—and fresh Lake Biwa fish, along with regional sake. The tour’s focus on local cuisine paired with drinks makes it ideal for those wanting to experience authentic Japanese pub culture.
Guests have described the tour as an excellent way to connect with locals and learn about the city’s heritage. Because it’s a guided experience, it’s well-suited for first-timers or travelers who want a structured night out but still enjoy spontaneity. The main downside? The price is higher than some other options, but the quality and depth of experience justify it.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice if you want to combine sightseeing with a fun, social night out sampling local foods and drinks in Hikone.
$138.00 per person
3. Shiga: Kusatsu & Minami-Kusatsu Bar Hopping with Local Guide
Next up is the Kusatsu & Minami-Kusatsu Bar Hopping Tour, offering a two-hour dive into Kusatsu’s lively bar scene. For $138, you visit two bars—each with its own vibe—enjoying a food and drink allowance of 1,500 yen at each stop. Your local guide shares stories about Kusatsu’s history, from its days as a Tōkaidō post town to its modern lively atmosphere.
The tour’s highlights include exploring traditional izakayas in the Kusatsu Station area, where long-standing establishments serve familiar comfort fare, and discovering the more youthful, international bars in Minami-Kusatsu. The mix of classic and contemporary venues offers a well-rounded look at Kusatsu’s drinking culture. The guide’s insights help deepen your appreciation, whether you’re into craft beers, local sake, or regional dishes.
While some may find the two-hour limit tight for exploring multiple venues, the curated experience delivers quality over quantity. Reviewers note the tour’s lively atmosphere and friendly guides make it a memorable night out.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers interested in a guided, local-knowledge-rich introduction to Kusatsu’s diverse bar scene.
$138.00 per person
4. Shiga Nagahama Guided Bar Hopping Tour with Food and Drinks
At number 4, the Nagahama Bar-Hopping Tour offers a lively two hours exploring Nagahama, a city famous for its samurai history and lakeside charm. For $138, you’ll visit two establishments, enjoying ¥1,500 worth of food and drinks at each.
Nagahama’s culinary scene is rooted in its merchant and samurai past. Expect to savor Omi beef dishes, fresh lake fish, and locally brewed sake. This tour emphasizes connecting with the city’s local flavors in intimate settings, with your guide sharing stories about the region’s history and the importance of its food culture.
Guests appreciate how the tour combines historical context with culinary delights, making it more than just a bar crawl. The focus on well-chosen venues ensures a quality experience, with options for both traditional and modern tastes. It’s a good fit for those wanting an authentic, relaxed evening that balances history and gastronomy.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those interested in tasting Nagahama’s culinary traditions while soaking up its historic atmosphere.
$138.00 per person
5. Shiga Omihachiman Bar-Hopping Tour with Local Flavors
Finally, we have the Omihachiman Bar-Hopping Tour in Omihachiman. This two-hour experience explores a town built on merchant commerce, with a focus on local sake, Omi beef, and seasonal lake fish. For $138, you visit two carefully selected bars, enjoying ¥1,500 worth of food and drinks per stop.
Omihachiman’s canals and merchant heritage create a charming backdrop for this tour. Your guide introduces you to the town’s hospitality traditions, including sake brewed from Lake Biwa’s waters and regional specialties. The experience is ideal for those interested in food heritage and community-driven dining.
Reviewers mention the tour’s lively atmosphere and the opportunity to taste authentic local dishes like fish caught in nearby waters and Omi beef. Its focus on heritage and tradition makes it a great pick for travelers who want a relaxed, educational night out.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded introduction to Omihachiman’s flavors and history, suitable for lovers of authentic regional cuisine.
$138.00 per person
How to Choose the Best Drinking Tour in Shiga for You
When selecting a drinking tour in Shiga, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re a culinary explorer wanting to try a regional dish like Funasushi, the food-focused experience might be your best fit. For those craving a lively night out with drinks and local stories, the Hikone bar-hopping or Kusatsu experience offers a spirited way to connect with locals.
Budget-wise, the short Funasushi tour offers a quick taste for less than $40, while the other guided bar-hopping options are around $138, providing full evenings of drinking and dining. Think about how much time you want to spend—45 minutes or two hours—and whether you prefer a structured guide or exploring independently.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak travel seasons like spring and autumn. These tours tend to fill up quickly, especially in popular towns like Hikone and Nagahama. Whichever you choose, prepare to enjoy some authentic tastes and stories that will deepen your appreciation of Shiga’s local culture.
Final Thoughts
Shiga’s drinking tours show that this region can deliver much more than beautiful scenery. From the regional Funasushi to lively bar crawls in historic towns, there’s an option for every taste. For a quick, flavorful introduction, the Funasushi experience is unbeatable, while those seeking social nights will enjoy Hikone or Kusatsu’s guided bar-hopping.
If you’re interested in exploring the local food heritage and connecting with community traditions, the Omihachiman or Nagahama tours offer authentic, memorable evenings. Be sure to plan ahead and book early—these experiences highlight just how much Shiga has to offer in the way of good drinks, great stories, and a taste of local life.