Higashiomi, Administrative city in Shiga Prefecture, Japan
Higashiōmi is an administrative city in Shiga Prefecture that stretches from the eastern shore of Lake Biwa to the forested slopes of the Suzuka Mountains. The settlement combines flat farmland near the water with hilly neighborhoods further inland, where narrow roads wind through residential areas and industrial zones.
The city emerged from several municipal mergers over the years and was officially established on February 11, 2005. This reorganization brought together the former city of Yokaichi with several surrounding towns into a larger administrative unit.
The name combines Higashi for east with Omi, the old word for the region around Lake Biwa, pointing to its position on the eastern shore. Today local communities gather in spring to fly large colorful kites that rise above fields, bringing families together for an afternoon outdoors.
The city spreads over a wide area, so a car or bicycle helps move between different neighborhoods and sights. Most temples and parks sit away from the town center, where paths lead through quiet countryside.
Eigen-ji, a Rinzai Zen temple in the mountains, draws visitors who walk through its quiet gardens and meditation halls. Hyakusai-ji, a Tendai temple lower down, is designated as a national historic site and preserves old wooden architecture among aged trees.
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