Lake Biwa

Attraction

Last updated September 07, 2026 Reviewed by the Japan Voyage editorial team

Prefecture

Shiga

Type

Attraction

N/A

0 reviews

Restaurant Train Access Cafe Vegetarian

About This Destination

Lake Biwa is Japan's largest and oldest freshwater lake, offering water sports, scenic cycling routes, and beautiful lakeshore views framed by surrounding mountains.

At 670 square kilometers, Lake Biwa dominates Shiga Prefecture and has been central to the region's culture and ecology for over four million years. The Biwako cycling route circles the entire lake at approximately 200 kilometers and is one of Japan's most popular long-distance cycling courses. The eastern shore offers sandy beaches popular for swimming in summer, while the western shore features dramatic cliffs and the famous floating torii gate of Shirahige Shrine. Boat cruises, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing are available throughout the warmer months. The lake is easily accessible from Kyoto in just 15 minutes by train, making it an ideal day trip.

Location

Prefecture: Shiga

Address: Shiga, Japan

Nearest Station: Otsu Station

Best time to visit: Spring for lakeside cherry blossoms and summer for water sports; Japan's largest lake is scenic year-round

View on Google Maps

Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Accepted

Food Options: Lakeside restaurants serve fresh lake fish including funazushi (fermented crucian carp), grilled ayu sweetfish, and local Omi beef dishes

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Lake Biwa?

Otsu, on the lake's southern shore, is only about 10 minutes from Kyoto Station on the JR Tokaido/Biwako Line. Other lakeside towns such as Hikone and Nagahama are on the same line.

What is there to do around Lake Biwa?

You can take lake cruises from Otsu, see the famous 'floating' torii of Shirahige Shrine, visit Hikone's original castle, swim at beaches on the clearer northern shores, and ride the 200 km Biwaichi cycling loop.

When is the best time to visit Lake Biwa?

Summer is best for swimming and water sports, spring offers lakeside cherry blossoms (especially at Kaizu Osaki), and autumn brings foliage around Hikone and the northern bays.

Nearby Destinations

⛩️

Shirahige Shrine 7.1km

🎯 Other Attraction in Shiga

La Collina Omihachiman Okishima Biwako Valley Michi-no-Eki Konze no Sato Ritto

More in shiga

🛕 Enryakuji Temple 🎯 Okishima

Places in this area

Hikone Castle

Castle

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