Geography

This inland prefecture occupies the northeastern region of the Kinki district, at the narrowest part of Honshu Island. The Omi Basin is in the middle of the prefecture surrounded by mountains and on the southeast is the Minakuchi Hills. Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake, takes up 1/6 of the prefecture. The northern area meets Fukui prefecture at the Nosaka mountains, just ten kilometers from the Sea of Japan. The Sea of Japan brings extremely heavy winter snowfall to the northern part of Shiga. The south has a mild climate and sparse rainfall. Heavy rains occasionally cause Lake Biwa to flood.

Industry & Economy

Shiga's agricultural industry until recent years was stagnant, and suffered due to a decreasing population. But this is now turning around with the southern section becoming a suburb for those commuting to Kyoto and Osaka. The prefecture's rice has a good reputation. However, the number of full-time farmers is declining with more farmers engaging in alternative businesses. Statistics show that 3.8% of farmers are full timers (lowest in the nation) and that 92% have a second business (highest in the nation). Other specialty products include Omi beef, mosquito nets (highest producer in the nation), velvet, and Shigaraki ware. Growing industries include electronic and biotechnology related businesses.

Cultural Background

Shiga has a rich cultural background. It is close to the ancient capital of Kyoto, and Shiga itself for a brief time served as the capital of Japan. Surprisingly, old traditions and customs are valued less in Shiga than in any other prefecture. Perhaps the old values restrain the people's lives to the point where they feel as if they are suppressed. Omi merchants are known to be diligent, frugal, and honest, and many good business people come from Shiga.

Religious Milieu

Shiga has the third largest Buddhist population in the nation and many temples such as the Hieizan Enryakuji Temple, the head temple of the Tendai sect, one of the main schools of Buddhism. There are also many historic shrines such as the Taga and Hiyoshi Shrines. Participation in the traditional religious festivals is a strong part of family and community life.

The Mission

Oda Nobunaga, the first feudal lord to bring unity to the country in the I 500s, was initially friendly to the early Christian work. As a result, active missionary work took place around Azuchi, with many chapels and theological schools established. When the persecution began, it was also strong in that area. Aggressive pioneering efforts were made in the early years of the Meiji era and a number of churches were begun. After the War, WEC International (Worldwide Evangelization for Christ International) was able to establish 11 churches and preaching points throughout the prefecture. Now, as the population increases there is an increasing need and opportunity for aggressive evangelism.