近江八幡 - Omihachiman
A historical town famous for its canals used by merchant ships to transport goods in the old days. It is also home of Omi Beef, one of the famous Wagyu Beef Brands. Taneya, the sweets factory that created Club Harie, is from this sleepy but beautiful city as well. You should check their really iconic museum/showroom complex called La Collina. The roof of the main building is fully covered by grass (though it was yellow during winter). I did not have enough time to explore the city since the big group wanted to go to Mitsui Shiga Ryuo Outlet Park and shop the new year sale (I succeeded in getting really great deals in Margaret Howell & Ralph Lauren, but that is another story). I spent the night at Marriott Nagoya Associa before leaving Japan from Chubu Centrair, the sunrise view from the room was quite impressive! It is only the 4th day of 2020, Happy New Year!
map
itinerary
highlights
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Day 1 Itinerary
Places visited: 近江八幡市 - La Collina ラ コリーナ近江八幡
近江八幡市
Creepy installation (?) near La Collina Complex and Tobita-kun, a very amusing way to let people know they should drive carefully because school children often pass through that area. He appears all around Japan with different costumes.
La Collina ラ コリーナ近江八幡
A must go! Very photogenic and inspiring if you are into branding and design. They have done really great job in sharing their story.
They have quite delicious food and outdoor eating area. There are also several products you can only get at this place.
Day 2 Itinerary
Places visited: MACHIYA INN近江八幡
MACHIYA INN近江八幡
A highly recommended place to stay in Omihachiman if you appreciate old buildings, cute Japanese garden, and don’t mind not having bathroom and toilet in your room.
The building used to be a sake factory but after reformation, it is used as a co-working space, small shops and Japanese style lodging where you sleep using futon on tatami floor.
Really appreciate their hospitality. We checked in on the 1st of January, when most of the restaurants are closed. Without being asked, they gave us lists of places and the opening dates. Without their recommendation we might have ended up at Mcdonalds.
Day 3 Itinerary
Places visited: Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel
Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel
The hotel is conveniently located in JR Nagoya complex. Takashimaya, Tokyu Hands and Uniqlo are just downstairs, Muji and Loft are in the next building.
Plus, so many restaurant options to choose from. One day is gone so quickly without having to step outside the building from the time you get off from the train!