Hachiman-bori Canal (Omihachiman)

八幡堀

Hachiman-bori is a historic canal in Omihachiman. It was the moat of Hachimanyama Castle, built by Toyotomi Hidetsugu, and later a busy route for trade on Lake Biwa. White-walled merchant houses and stone paths line the water, and the area is often used for period films. A traditional boat ride on the canal is popular.

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Visitor information

Closed: The canal area is open all year.
Admission: Boat tour: adults 1,500 yen, children 1,000 yen. Operating hours 10:00–16:00.
Getting there: From JR Omihachiman Station, take an Ohmi Railway bus (for Chomeiji) about 7 minutes to the Hachimanbori stop.
Time needed: The Hachiman-bori boat tour on a traditional Japanese boat takes about 30 minutes.

Hours and fees can change. Please check the official website before you go.

Good to know

The boat runs every day with no reservation needed, but may stop in bad weather.
At night the canal is lit up between Hakuun Bridge and Shinmachi-hama. Cherry blossom season is especially beautiful.

Tips for Muslim visitors

The canal is a 30-minute walk from Omihachiman Station; the Tourist Information Centre at the station has information on boat cruises.
The canal is a good place to see cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.
Old streets are lined with small shops and food stalls. Ask about pork and alcohol before buying snacks.
Many old houses are private homes. Do not enter them or take photos of residents without permission.
Plan your visit around prayer times. Below are today's prayer times for Shiga and the verified places to pray nearby.