A Journey to Lake Biwa Near Kyoto

Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake, is located about 30-60 minutes by car from Kyoto city center. It serves as a perfect extension destination for your Kyoto trip, offering natural scenery, historical and cultural sites, and a variety of water activities. Here are some classic experiences around Lake Biwa: --- ### **🌊 Must-Visit Attractions at Lake Biwa** #### **1. Omihachiman (Shiga Prefecture)** - **Highlights**: Riverside charm + Historic townhouses - **Transportation**: Take the JR Tokaido Line to "Omihachiman Station," then transfer to a bus or rent a bicycle - **Activities**: - Enjoy a boat ride along the "Hachiman-bori" canal, flanked by Edo-era white-walled warehouses and willow trees. - Climb to the "Mount Hachiman Castle Ruins" for panoramic views of Lake Biwa (cable car available). - Savor Omi beef dishes (try the sukiyaki at "Akadama" restaurant). #### **2. Shirahige Shrine (Takashima City)** - **Highlights**: The "Torii Gate in the Water" of Lake Biwa - **Transportation**: Take the JR Kosei Line to "Omi-Takashima Station," then a 10-minute taxi ride (or rent a bicycle) - **Best Time**: Sunrise or sunset, when the torii gate and its reflection create a stunning view (may freeze in winter). - *Tips*: The shrine itself is small, ideal for photography and exploring nearby attractions. #### **3. Hikone Castle (Hikone City)** - **Highlights**: One of Japan's five National Treasure castles + Adorable mascot "Hikonyan" - **Transportation**: Take the JR Tokaido Line to "Hikone Station," then a 15-minute walk - **Activities**: - Visit the well-preserved castle keep and enjoy views of Lake Biwa from the top. - Experience Japanese tea and snacks at the "Genkyu-en" garden. - Catch "Hikonyan" performances (2-3 times daily, schedule varies). #### **4. Biwako Valley (Otsu City)** - **Highlights**: Mountain-top observation deck + Outdoor activities - **Transportation**: Take the JR Kosei Line to "Shiga Station," then transfer to a cable car - **Activities**: - Ride the cable car to the summit for a 360-degree view of Lake Biwa. - Enjoy paragliding in summer or skiing in winter (at Omi-Maiko Ski Resort). --- ### **🚴 Recommended In-Depth Experiences** - **Cycling Around the Lake**: The full loop around Lake Biwa is about 200 km, with dedicated bike paths. Try the "Ogoto Onsen → Shirahige Shrine" segment. - **Lake Activities (SUP/Kayaking)**: Experience water sports at "Biwako Terrace" or "Oku-Biwako." - **Hot Spring Tours**: Relax at "Ogoto Onsen" or "Nagahama Kurokabe Onsen" with lake views. --- ### **🍱 Lake Biwa Food Highlights** - **Omi Beef**: Premium wagyu second only to Kobe beef (try "Omi Beef Restaurant Karo"). - **Funazushi**: Traditional fermented sushi made with Lake Biwa's freshwater fish (an acquired taste). - **Biwako Beer**: Local craft beer, pairs perfectly with lake fish dishes. --- ### **🚆 Transportation Guide** - **From Kyoto**: - JR Tokaido Line (Kyoto Station → Otsu/Hikone direction, about 20-50 minutes). - Keihan Electric Railway to "Hama-Otsu Station," then transfer to a sightseeing boat. - **Recommended Passes**: - "JR Kansai Wide Area Pass" (ideal for multi-region travel). - "Lake Biwa One-Day Pass" (includes bus rides + attraction discounts). --- The tranquility of Lake Biwa contrasts sharply with the bustling atmosphere of Kyoto. If time permits, consider spending 1-2 days at a lakeside hot spring inn (such as "Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel") to enjoy the slow-paced beauty of the lake and mountains. 🌅