【Hachimanbori】A place that greatly contributed to the birth and development of merchants and the prosperity of the town

The desperate efforts of people in the past have revived the charming townscape

While Hachimanbori had long served its role as a transportation route and living space, by the 1950s, when lifestyles began to change, it had become a forgotten and neglected place, eventually becoming a source of pollution. In 1972, the Omihachiman Junior Chamber of Commerce called for its restoration with the belief that “We exist because of Hachimanbori, and we must protect the canal, filled with the history of the town, not just for tourism purposes.”

Through the cooperation and collaboration of citizens and the administration, the canal gradually recovered, and now the picturesque scenery has returned, making it an ideal location for period dramas. The landscape around Hachimanbori, which strongly retains the atmosphere of the Edo period, is picturesque wherever you look, and stepping into the area will make you feel as if you’ve wandered into a period drama. Much filming takes place throughout the year, so you might encounter a shooting on location if the timing is right.

The quiet waterway and the willow trees lining along it complement the white-walled storehouses and houseboats floating on the revived waterway. The scenic beauty of Hachimanbori has been recognized as an Important Cultural Landscape. Why not forget the daily hustle and bustle and visit this relaxing and charming place?

Enjoy stylish and delicious gourmet food, including Omi beef

Thanks to the opening of Hachimanbori, the castle town has flourished. The gourmet scene continues to evolve daily, attracting tourists from all over the world. There are many shops that offer Omi beef, one of the three major Japanese Wagyu varieties. Here are a few recommendations:

At Omi Beef Okaki Main Store, which has gained even more popularity with the opening of a sister store in Mitsui Outlet Park Shiga Ryuo, they offer a variety of dishes, from yakiniku to shabu-shabu and set meals. The beef is juicy and easy to eat, and it is said to melt in your mouth the moment you put it in. Morishima is a popular restaurant where the chef cooks in front of you. It offers courses such as the chef’s recommended beef dishes, making it a popular choice for luxurious lunches and celebrations.

For those who want to enjoy a casual and hearty meal, try the Omi beef steak bowl at Hori Cafe. They have a pet-friendly terrace where you can enjoy your meal while overlooking Hachimanbori.

For a unique dining experience, consider Hako Te Ako located inside the Omihachiman Youth Hostel, which is housed in a 110-year-old wooden Japanese-style building that is designated as a tangible cultural property of the country. The quality of dishes, such as Omi beef minced meat hamburger stew and beef sinew curry rice, is highly praised.

If you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine made with carefully selected ingredients, head to Da Koji. You’ll be more than satisfied with the visually appealing dishes and stylish atmosphere.

There are souvenirs to choose from, ranging from classic to hidden gems!

Don’t forget about souvenirs, one of the joys of sightseeing and traveling. One classic souvenir perfect for your stroll around the historic town is the traditional Japanese confectionery Fukumi Tembin, from the long-established Taneya in Himure Village. Just before eating it, you sandwich bean paste with mochi inside a fragrant monaka wafer made from Omi glutinous rice to create a rather luxurious treat.

The baumkuchen from Club Harie is also a perfect gift, particularly popular among younger generations. The donuts are known for their delicious taste, so be sure to check them out as well. If you want to eat freshly baked baumkuchen, visit La Collina Omihachiman.

If you enjoy alcohol, visit Yamajo Himure Store to find delicious pickles. These pickles are available at local accommodations, and many tourists search for the shop after checking out due to their delicious taste. You can choose after trying a few samples, and some go well with cheese, making them perfect as a snack.

As a souvenir for cooking, Fu-So recommends Choji-Fu. For over 160 years and six generations since the Kaei period, they have maintained the flavor and technique of this fu, characterized by its pleasant texture and chewiness.

An unexpected souvenir shop is Nishikawa. They primarily sell bedding but also offer dorayaki, Mitarashi mochi, and Fu-rusks. Each of these products, which are collaborations with local confectionery shops, adds a touch of Omihachiman’s local flavor while retaining the shop’s essence. Consider presenting these unique souvenirs, along with the story of buying them at a futon shop, as hidden gems.

Things to know about Hachimanbori

Today, white-walled storehouses and old houses line the canal, and historical sites, such as the large torii gate of Himure Hachimangu Shrine and Hakuun Bridge, provide a rich historical atmosphere. The area is full of attractions, making it ideal for exploring history. These attractions include the Kawara Museum, cultural properties like the former Nishikawa family residence and the former Ban family residence, and the streets of Shinmachi and Nagaharacho, where the townscapes of Omi merchant houses continue.