Discover the Heart of Shiga’s Natural Beauty
Imago-no-Sato, nestled along the Lake Biwa Route (National Route 161) in Otsu City, is the only rest stop between Kyoto and the Lake Biwa region, offering travelers a gateway to the area’s rich natural and cultural treasures. Surrounded by the serene landscapes of Lake Biwa and the Hira Mountains, this roadside station serves as a vibrant hub where local life meets regional heritage.
More than a pit stop, Imago-no-Sato is a celebration of Shiga’s bounty. Visitors can savor premium local cuisine, including dishes made with renowned Ōmi beef, shop for seasonal produce, artisanal sweets, and handcrafted goods, or relax at the on-site hot spring resort, Hira Topia. With expert tourism consultants, free Wi-Fi, EV charging, and a fully accessible facility, it’s designed for comfort, connection, and discovery. Whether you're hiking, skiing, or simply seeking a peaceful break, Imago-no-Sato offers an authentic taste of Shiga’s enduring charm.
Why Visit
Imago-no-Sato stands as the only roadside station along the Lake Biwa West Highway, uniquely positioned to serve travelers between Kyoto and Shiga’s Lake Biwa region. It is home to the only restaurant on this route offering authentic near-field beef dishes using locally raised Ōmi beef, including a signature wagyu steak with a rich, buttery finish. Visitors can also discover the region’s exclusive "Biwa Lake View" pickled vegetables—crafted from seasonal produce grown in the nearby hills—available only at this station.
Restaurants & Dining
Imago-no-Sato offers a taste of local flavor with a restaurant featuring premium Ōmi beef dishes, crafted for a memorable culinary experience.
Restaurant
レストラン
Specialty
Specializing in beef dishes using premium Mie beef from Shiga Prefecture
A cozy dining space crafted with wood from Shiga Prefecture, offering a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy high-quality beef dishes such as steak, sukiyaki, and beef bowls.
Shopping Highlights
Discover regional treasures at Imago-no-Sato’s shop, where locally grown produce and artisanal goods reflect the heart of the area.
Local Products Store
特産品販売所
Sells locally produced agricultural products, souvenirs, and specialty goods from Shiga Prefecture and Otsu City.
Products
Must-Try Item
Local specialty sweets made with traditional craftsmanship
Convenience Store
コンビニ
A nearby Lawson convenience store offering a wide range of everyday products.
Products
Must-Try Item
Freshly baked bread and pastries
Featured Products
Savor signature specialties like Ōmi beef and handmade sweets, crafted with pride by local farmers and artisans.
Shiga-Style Pickled Vegetables
近江風漬物
Traditional pickled vegetables made using local ingredients and time-honored methods from Shiga Prefecture.
Bamboo-Style Vegetable Bouquet
野菜ブーケ
A creatively arranged bouquet of fresh seasonal vegetables, perfect as a gift or decorative item.
Biyakobarei Mountain View Souvenir Set
びわ湖バレイ観光セット
A curated gift set featuring local products and souvenirs inspired by the scenic views of Biwako Borei Mountain.
Facilities & Amenities
Enjoy convenient amenities at Imago-no-Sato, including 24-hour restrooms, EV charging, free Wi-Fi, and accessible facilities.
Parking Lot
118 parking spaces available, including 28 large vehicle spots and 86 standard vehicle spots.
Adjacent to the roadside station
EV Charging Station
One standard and one rapid charging station available for electric vehicles.
Located within the roadside station premises
Free Wi-Fi
Free wireless LAN available through the Biwa Lake Free Wi-Fi network.
Throughout the facility
Restrooms
10 male toilets, 10 female toilets, 2 accessible toilets, and baby changing stations available.
Throughout the facility
Information Center
Offers regional tourism and local product information. Features a dedicated tourism concierge service to assist visitors with diverse needs.
Main facility building
Restaurant
Serves dishes made with local Shiga beef, including steak, sukiyaki, and beef rice bowls. The interior is crafted with Shiga-sourced wood for a calming atmosphere.
Inside the roadside station
Local Products Store
Sells locally produced vegetables, processed goods, souvenirs, traditional sweets, pastries, bread, bento boxes, and prepared meals.
Inside the roadside station
ATM
An ATM is available for visitor convenience.
Near the convenience store
Convenience Store
LAWSON convenience store located adjacent to the highway interchange. Open 24 hours daily.
Adjacent to the highway interchange
Activities & Experiences
Engage in seasonal workshops and hands-on experiences, from vegetable bouquet making to outdoor adventures in nature.
Vegetable Bouquet Workshop
野菜ブーケ作り
Participants will create decorative bouquets using fresh local vegetables, learning creative presentation techniques and seasonal vegetable selection.
Duration
60 min
Insider Tips
Visit during off-peak hours for a relaxed stay, and ask the tourism concierge for hidden local gems and seasonal highlights.
- Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00–10:00 AM to secure the day’s fresh batch of local vegetable and fruit-filled buns from the bakery counter, which often sells out by 11:00 AM
- Hidden Gems: Check the deli counter near the restaurant entrance for the seasonal "vegetable bouquet" set—crafted with locally grown produce and available only during November’s special workshops
- Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the outdoor food truck area near the parking lot between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, where local vendors sell grilled nearu (grilled rice balls) and roasted chestnuts
- Best Value Meal: Order the “Nearu Set” at the restaurant between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to receive a free side of pickled vegetables and a complimentary drink—available only during the 11–12 month meat day promotion
- Convenience Store Hack: Use the Lawson store’s 6:00 AM opening to grab breakfast items like onigiri and coffee before the restaurant opens at 10:00 AM, especially useful for early morning travelers
- EV Charging Tip: Plug in at the rapid EV charger between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM to avoid peak congestion, as the station often fills up during lunchtime hours when drivers stop for meals
- Information Desk Advantage: Ask the tourism concierge at the information desk about the “Biyakobarei trail access” route—they provide a free printed map and can confirm real-time trail conditions for the nearby Biwako Bariyai hiking and skiing area
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Late March to April offers peak canola flower viewing near the station, with local markets featuring fresh bamboo shoots and early seasonal vegetables.
Summer (June–August): July and August are ideal for enjoying lake views and outdoor activities at Biwako Barea, with fresh summer produce available at the market.
Autumn (September–November): October and November highlight autumn harvests, including seasonal vegetables and the popular vegetable bouquet workshops.
Winter (December–February): December through February provides snow views and winter sports access at Biwako Barea, with hearty local dishes like sukiyaki at the restaurant.
Ratings
Family-Friendly Review
Offers stroller-friendly paths, multiple restrooms with baby beds, and accessible facilities. Includes a children's play area and educational activities like vegetable bouquet workshops. Kid-friendly dining options are available.
Food Lover Review
Features a restaurant specializing in high-quality local products, particularly beef from the region. Offers diverse local cuisine and fresh produce. The shop sells artisanal goods, seasonal specialties, and locally made snacks.
Car Camping Review
Provides 24-hour access to restrooms and parking. Has EV chargers and a convenience store open late. While not designed for camping, it offers quiet rest areas and basic overnight facilities.
Scenic Beauty Review
Located near Lake Biwa and Hira Mountains, offering panoramic views of natural landscapes. Features scenic viewpoints and seasonal beauty, especially in spring and winter. The surrounding environment enhances the overall aesthetic appeal.