The Eight Views of Ōmi are a set of traditional scenic views set across Shiga. Inspired by the Eight Views of Xiaoxiang, these views inspired numerous artists to create a set of paintings based on them, including works created by the last great master of ukiyo-e, Hiroshige. Each individual view is incredibly beautiful, and through this series, we will showcase each of these views, and how you can experience the beauty that inspired Hiroshige to create these works. Today, we will be showcasing the Returning Sails at Yabase.

Returning Sales at Yabase details a fleet of ships on the serene waters of Lake Biwa. While Yabase no longer exists as its own city, it has been absorbed into the city of Kusatsu. Gorgeous views, like the one seen in the painting are almost a dime a dozen in Shiga, one of the best places to view the sea near the location of this painting is on Yabase Kihan Island, which is an artificially reclaimed island in the middle of Lake Biwa.

How to get to this view: Board the JR Biwako line to Kusatsu Station, then board the Ōmi bus towards Hamaotsu, Ishiyama Station, and Seta Station. Get off at Yabase Station, and it is about a ten minute walk from there.