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 Evening Glow at Seta.

Evening Glow at Seta showcases more sailboats near the narrowest point of Lake Biwa. Stretching across the entirety of the piece is a bridge, Seta no Karehashi, which featured as a part of the Tokaido route across Japan. This bridge doesn’t exist in the form depicted, but a recreation made in concrete is still present. The mountain in the background of the piece is Mount Mikami, which is sometimes referred to as the “Fuji of Ōmi.” Today, you can cross this replicated bridge.

How to get to this view: Take the JR Biwako Line to Zeze Station. Once you arrive, walk to Keihan Zeze Station, which is in front of Zeze Station itself. There, board the Keihan Ishiyama Sakamoto Line to Karahashimae Station. From there, it is a roughly five minute walk.