The Hachiman-bori Waterway was one of the reasons why the area around the former Azuchi-Momoyama Castle was so prosperous. It contributed to the development of the area and the rise of the famous Omi merchants, making the area compete with the Otsu area to the south of Lake Biwa. Along the waterway. White storage houses and old houses from the past still stand and are well preserved. The area has become an increasingly popular spot for visitors in recent years, and English language information has become more readily available. For those looking to see the sights along the canal, cruise operators will guide you slowly down the canal's length by boat, giving you a great opportunity to view it as the old merchants might have.

Photograph provided by Biwako Visitors Bureau