10 minutes by train from Kyoto! Guide to Japan’s largest lake “Lake Biwa”

Lake Biwa is Japan's largest lake, with an area of approximately 670 square kilometers and a shoreline stretching about 235 kilometers. The starting point for tourism is Otsu, which is reachable by train in about 40 minutes from JR Shin-Osaka Station and just around 10 minutes from JR Kyoto Station. You have the freedom to explore the vast lake in various ways. There are railway lines that run around the lake, allowing for leisurely strolls as you hop between stations. With well-equipped bike rental facilities, cycling along the lakeside is also highly recommended. Advanced travelers may find it convenient to rent a car for efficient transportation.

【URL】
Official HP（Janapnese Only）
The KANSAI Guide

While simply strolling around the Lake Biwa area is enjoyable, there are plenty of spots and unmissable events to visit around the vast Lake Biwa. This time, we'll introduce you to our top 5 recommendations.

An excellent spot to appreciate the grandeur of Lake Biwa's scale is the 'Biwako Terrace' at the resort facility Biwako Valley, situated at an elevation of over 1,000 meters! The sweeping panorama of Lake Biwa from the terrace on the ridge reached by a ropeway is so breathtaking that it leaves you in awe. There are terrace cafes and dining options, so you can leisurely enjoy Lake Biwa's vista while having tea or a meal. It's just a 9-minute bus ride from JR Kosei Line Shiga Station.

【name of facility】 The Biwako Terrace
【Opening hours】 9:30 am-5:00 pm（depending on the season）
【closing day】 Open all year round（depending on the season）
【prices】 Ropeway (round trip)：adult 2,600yen、Elementary school student1,000yen、3 years old and above600yen、pet 500yen for each.
【URL】
official site
The KANSAI Guide
【address】 1547-1 Kido, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture
【Google Map URL】 GoogleMap

The Biwako Great Fireworks Festival is a major annual event that attracts over 300,000 people. It features a dazzling competition of fireworks launched for about an hour. What makes it unique is the fact that fireworks are launched over the lake, and the 'underwater starmines' that paint the lake surface and night sky with the colors of fireworks are an absolute must-see! You can view the fireworks from various places around Lake Biwa, including the shores near Otsu Port and Nagisa Park. The event in 2020 will be held on November 6th, starting at 7:00 pm."

【name of event】 Lake Biwa Fireworks Festival
【Opening hours】 7:00 pm-8:00 pm, held around August 8th every year.
【URL】 Official HP(Janapnese Only)
【address】 2-40 Hamacho, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture (Nagisa Park)
【Google Map URL】 GoogleMap

If you want to enjoy the view of Lake Biwa from the water, you should definitely consider taking a cruise on the 'Michigan' cruise ship. The Michigan, a retro-style paddlewheel boat, departs from Otsu Port and offers three different routes: an 80-minute cruise, a 60-minute cruise, and a scenic evening cruise. Onboard, you can also opt for a buffet-style lunch or dinner (reservation required). Have a special time on board as you take in the sights.

【name of facility】 Biwako Cruise/MICHIGAN SIGHTSEEING CRUISE
【Opening hours】 10:00 am-8:30 pm（Last departure is 7:30 pm, varies by season）
【closing day】 Open all year round（depending on the season）
【prices】 80 minute course: 2,830 yen for adults, 2,300 yen for students, 1,420 yen for elementary school students, 60 minute course: 2,300 yen for adults, 1,880 yen for students, 1,150 yen for elementary school students, 120 minute course for Michigan Night: 3,040 yen for adults, 2,520 yen for students, 1,520 yen for elementary school students
【URL】
Official HP(Janapnese Only)
The KANSAI Guide
【address】 5-1-1 Hamaotsu, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture
【Google Map URL】 GoogleMap

A historic shrine with a mystical ambiance, featuring a torii gate standing on Lake Biwa. It's believed to have been founded around 2,000 years ago and is revered for its blessings related to longevity and matchmaking. The breathtaking views at dawn or dusk, with the lake's surface and the torii gate painted in the colors of the rising or setting sun, are a fantastic sight! Be sure to capture this enchanting beauty in photographs.

【name of facility】 Shirahige Shrine
【Opening hours】 Free within the precincts
【closing day】 Open all year round
【price】 free
【URL】 officila site ( japanese only )
【address】 215 Ugawa, Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture
【Google Map URL】 GoogleMap

Chikubushima Island, which floats on Lake Biwa, is said to be a place where 'the gods reside.' The island is home to the Hozu-ji Temple and the Tsukubusuma Shrine, and its main deity, the sacred statue known as 'Honson,' symbolizes the most revered faith within the temple. Benten, one of 'Japan's Three Great Benten,' is famous here. Considered a powerful spot on Lake Biwa, it's a place to experience the forces of nature. If you plan to visit the island, taking a cruise from Nagahama Port or Imazu Port is a convenient option.

【name of place】 Chikubushima Island
【Opening hours】 Stroll around freely
【price】 Entrance fee 500 yen
【URL】
official site
The KANSAI Guide
【address】 Hayasaki Town, Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture
【Google Map URL】 GoogleMap

With its vast scale, Lake Biwa offers a multitude of charms. Take a stroll along the shores, go on a boat ride, and sharpen your five senses as you fully enjoy your journey around Lake Biwa!