Chikubu-shima (竹生島) is a small wooded island rising steeply out of the northern waters of Lake Biwa, about 30 minutes from Nagahama by ferry. It is one of the most sacred sites in the region: Tsukubusuma Shrine (都久夫須麻神社) and Hogonji Temple (宝厳寺) share the island and both trace their origins to the fifth or sixth century. The island is considered a divine realm — the rocks, trees, and shoreline are treated with the reverence accorded to sacred ground, and landing is restricted to the main pier.
Ferries run from Nagahama Port (長浜港) several times a day, more frequently in spring and autumn. The island is small enough to see in two hours but atmospheric enough to justify taking your time. The shrine's main hall is connected to the hilltop by a staircase of 165 steps; near the top is a small terrace where visitors throw clay discs at a torii gate over the water — a tradition said to bring good fortune if the disc passes through.