Shiga Food Guide: Omi Beef, Funazushi & Omi Chanpon

Omi Beef

One of Japan's three great wagyu brands. Raised near Lake Biwa in Shiga, Omi Beef has delicate marbling and a clean finish.

Funazushi

Japan's oldest form of sushi — whole nigorubuna carp from Lake Biwa packed in salt and rice and fermented for up to three years.

Omi Chanpon

Born in Hikone City, this is a lighter, soy-based take on noodle chanpon — refreshingly simple.

Red Konnyaku

A Shiga specialty — konnyaku dyed red with iron oxide, used in oden and simmered dishes.

Shigaraki Pottery Tableware

Eating from a Shigaraki bowl at a local restaurant is an authentic Shiga dining experience.

Access

Hikone, Nagahama and Otsu have local specialty restaurants. Omi Beef is best at yakiniku restaurants in Hikone.