The Location of Shiga Prefecture

Shiga Prefecture is located in the western part of central Japan, surrounded by mountains and neighboring prefectures, making it an inland region. In the center of the prefecture lies **Lake Biwa**, Japan's largest lake, which covers one-sixth of the prefecture’s area. More than 120 rivers flow into the lake, providing abundant water resources.
Shiga is also known for its beautiful landscapes, including the **Eight Views of Lake Biwa** and the **Eight Views of Omi**, both of which are cherished cultural symbols. Due to its proximity to **Kyoto** and **Nara**, Shiga has historically been an important transportation hub, and it is rich in historical heritage.
In terms of industry, Shiga is known for its strong manufacturing sector, producing items such as **cosmetics**, **textiles**, and various other products.

Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan.

Like other prefectures, Shiga is experiencing challenges related to a declining birthrate and an aging population, which is leading to expected labor shortages. The number of foreign workers in Shiga is approximately 20,000, with the majority coming from Brazil, Vietnam, and China. About 50% of these workers are employed in manufacturing, while others work in wholesale and retail, service industries, and construction.
In terms of residency status, over 50% of foreign workers hold visas based on familial or personal ties, making this the largest group. This is followed by **technical interns**, who make up about 20%, and those in specialized or technical fields, accounting for just under 20%. These foreign workers are playing an important role in supporting Shiga’s labor market across a range of industries.