One of the best parts of running a property management business in Shiga is all the good eating that comes with it. As I drive between Otsu, Moriyama, Hikone, and the towns in between to check on properties, I get to discover the everyday local spots that most visitors never see — the casual ramen shops where people who live here actually eat.
I’m a big fan of rich, hearty ramen — tonkotsu, miso, or a heavy back-fat shoyu that warms you right up on a cold Shiga morning. But I’ve also come to really appreciate lighter, more subtle bowls too.
After eating my way through the prefecture for years, here are the five places I keep returning to.
1. Tenkagomen (天下ご麺) — Otsu Branch
View on Google Maps
This is my go-to spot in central Otsu, conveniently located near Biwako-Hamaotsu Station. It’s perfect on days when I’m working around the area or coming into the city.
I usually order the Omi Salt & Chicken Noodles. It’s a light, clean, delicately seasoned bowl using local Omi chicken. I don’t normally go for lighter styles, but this one won me over. The broth is clear and nuanced, and it even reached the finals of a national TV noodle competition. If you want something richer, their tsukemen (dipping noodles) is also excellent.
📍 Nearest station: Biwako-Hamaotsu Station (Keihan Otsu Line) — about 3 minutes walk. 🕐 Hours: Tue–Sat & day before holiday 11:00–23:00 / Sun 11:00–21:00 / Closed Mondays
2. Bari Bari Johnny (バリバリジョニー 竜王店) — Ryuo
View on Google Maps
A local tipped me off about this place a few years ago, and I’ve been coming back ever since. The signature Bariton Ramen is a rich tonkotsu-style bowl loaded with back fat — exactly how I like it. You can ask for extra back fat, and they offer free noodle refills and even give you a brand new 10 yen coin to say thank your for getting a refill. It’s fast, satisfying, and very popular with locals.
📍 Nearest station: Yasu Station – over 1 hour walk. Best reached by car. 🕐 Hours: 11am – 9 pm. Closed on Mondays.
3. Rairaitei (来来亭) — Zeze Branch, Otsu
View on Google Maps
The Zeze branch of Rairaitei serves excellent Kyoto-style shoyu ramen. I particularly like their koteri (rich and thick) ramen. The broth is rich but balanced, with firm noodles and a comforting flavor that works really well.
What really stands out for me though is the chahan (fried rice). I genuinely think it’s the best chahan I’ve had at any ramen shop in the area. The ramen + chahan set makes for a great value lunch and though I prefer the staff and ambiance of the Zeze branch, Rairaitei has locations all over Japan.
📍 Nearest station: Zeze Station (JR Biwako Line) — 3 minute walk. 🕐 Hours: 11:00–23:30 daily, no regular closing day.
4. Moriyama Shiogensui (守山塩元帥) — Moriyama
View on Google Maps
I pass through Moriyama often, and this is my regular stop when I’m in the area. It’s a shio (salt) ramen specialist. The broth has a clean, natural salt base with a gentle yuzu note that brightens everything up. It’s light but surprisingly flavorful and not greasy.
They make their own noodles in-house, which have a great texture and hold the broth well. The gyoza is also solid. Note: they’re cash only, and it can get busy during peak hours.
📍 Nearest station: Moriyama Station (JR Biwako Line) — over 2km away at 1277-7 Mizuhocho. Car or taxi recommended. 🕐 Hours: 11:00–22:00 daily
Final Thoughts
Shiga doesn’t get the same ramen attention as Kyoto or Osaka, but that’s part of its charm. The local scene feels authentic and unspoiled. You can still sit at a busy counter as the only outsider and enjoy a fantastic bowl for under ¥1,000.
If you’re in the area for work, visiting Lake Biwa, or just passing through on the shinkansen, I hope this list helps you find a good meal. And if you own property in Shiga and need help looking after it, feel free to reach out — I know the area well.