# Lake Biwa Museum

> A museum on the Karasuma Peninsula devoted to Lake Biwa, one of the world's oldest lakes, combining natural-history galleries with one of Japan's largest freshwater aquariums.

- Prefecture: Shiga
- Type: Museum
- Address: Kusatsu, Shiga, Japan
- Opening hours: Tue–Sun 09:30–17:00
- Admission: 800 yen
- Official site: https://www.biwahaku.jp/

The Lake Biwa Museum, run by Shiga Prefecture, stands on the Karasuma Peninsula that reaches into the southern lake. Its exhibitions trace Lake Biwa as one of the world's few ancient lakes, formed some four million years ago, through geology, the history of people living alongside the water, and the plants and fish of its watershed. The aquarium wing is among the largest freshwater displays in Japan, with tanks of native Lake Biwa species and a tunnel of the lake's fish, alongside a hands-on discovery room popular with children. The surrounding lakeside park and lotus-filled inlets make an easy walk before or after a visit.

## FAQ

### How much is admission to the Lake Biwa Museum?

General admission is 800 yen for adults and 450 yen for high-school and university students; elementary and junior-high students enter free. Special exhibitions may cost extra.

### How do I get to the Lake Biwa Museum?

Take a bus bound for the Karasuma Peninsula from JR Kusatsu Station (about 25 minutes), or drive; there is a large paid parking lot on site. The museum is closed on Mondays.

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Source: Lake Biwa Museum — Japan Voyage