10 Things To Do Around Lake Biwa

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Have you ever heard of Biwako, also referred to as Lake Biwa? This lake is situated quarter-hour north of Kyoto in Shiga Prefecture and gives drinkable water to the Kansai area. It’s the largest freshwater lake in Japan at about 250 sq. miles (670 ㎢) and one of many oldest lakes on this planet, round 4 million years previous. At this time the lake has a big fish inhabitants; greater than 50 species of native fish dwell in Lake Biwa. Resulting from its proximity to Kyoto, it’s usually referred to in Japanese literature and could be very well-known by Japanese individuals.

The world can also be identified for its scenic views with floating torii gates, picturesque cities, and mountain high temples, and locals go to the lake for swimming, kayaking and different outside actions. The loop across the lake, Biwaichi, is definitely a part of the Nationwide Cycle Route. The biking route might be accomplished in a day if you’re a match and skilled bike owner, however taking your time to discover the lake space is really helpful as there’s a lot to see and do! Now that you’ve somewhat little bit of background about Lake Biwa, let’s discover among the issues to take pleasure in within the space.

Beneficial exercise:

1. Shirahige Shrine 

Shirahige Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Takashima, north-west of Lake Biwa, that was based 1,900 years in the past. This shrine is devoted to Sarutahiko Okami, the chief of all earthly gods. The title “Shirahige” actually means “white beard” and, as it’s implied, this shrine blesses guests with an extended life, till they develop an extended, white beard. The torii gates that result in the shrine entrance mild up at night time to function a beacon to all who want to go to. Nonetheless, time to go to this shrine is early morning, with the solar rising contained in the torii gate.

The tough half is that there’s a nationwide route between the primary shrine and the torii gate on the water. The shrine was going through the lake, however because the nationwide route opened, it’s a must to cross the highway to see the torii gate on the water. Sadly, pedestrians should not allowed to cross the highway since there’s no crosswalk, and lots of vehicles always go at full pace. Normally, there’s a rope to stop individuals from crossing the highway, so please observe that it could be tough to take a phenomenal image like this (and don’t attempt to danger it!).

2. Biwako Valley 

Biwako Valley is a spot to go to when you find yourself in search of panoramic views of Lake Biwa from atop the mountains by the western shores. You possibly can attain the mountain high in a 5-minute ropeway journey that goes up 1,100 meters (3,600 ft) in a automotive that’s encased utterly by the glass, offering a 360-degree view of the ascent. The ropeway is the quickest in Japan with a 7m/second journey pace! The commentary deck contains enjoyable sports activities actions akin to zip lining in the summertime and snowboarding or snowboarding within the winter. Ski classes can be found and different actions akin to sledding and constructing a snowman might be loved as properly. There are two terraces; the Grand Terrace and the North Terrace and each provide a chic view of Lake Biwa.

Biwako Terrace
9:00 am – 5:00 pm (April – Oct.)
9:30 am – 4:30 pm (Nov.)
8:30 am – 4:30 pm (Winter)

Admission charge ¥3,500 for a roundtrip ticket on the ropeway; exercise charges range 

3. Biking Route Lake Biwa

As talked about within the introduction, Lake Biwa has a lakeshore highway that circles round many of the shoreline. The entire route is about 200 kilometers in size and is generally flat, apart from a small half within the north. The route is clearly marked and straightforward to comply with, simply keep on the highway closest to the lake. The lake consists of a northern basin (145 km) and a smaller south basin (45 km), that are cut up from one another by the Biwako Ohashi Bridge, so you possibly can select to cycle across the lake utterly or simply both bassin. There are numerous locations the place you possibly can lease a motorcycle in Shiga, whereas most provide day leases, a number of of the retailers provide long-distance bicycle rental.

4. Ukimido “Floating Temple”

Ukimido is one among 5 buildings that represent the Mangetsu-ji Temple, a temple that sits on high of Lake Biwa. It’s most well-known for its “floating corridor”, which is without doubt one of the most consultant scenic spots of Lake Biwa. The temple was constructed below the supervision of the Rinzai College of Japanese Buddhism, a type of Zen Buddhism. It has been rebuilt and repaired twice, as soon as in 1937, and once more in 1982. You possibly can attain this temple by bus that departs from JR Katata Station or use the free parking close by.

Ukimido “Floating Temple”
8:00 am – 5:00 pm (Jan. – Nov.)
8:00 am – 4:30 pm (Dec.)

Admission charge ¥300

5. Otsu Port

Otsu Port is a lakeside resort on the southern aspect of the lake and residential to a number of stunning temples and shrines and different highlights. The Lake Biwa Flower Fountain, situated at Otsu Port, is without doubt one of the largest fountains on this planet at 440 meters (1,443 ft) vast. In-built 1995, this fountain contains water flows that attain as excessive as 40 meters (130 ft), forming numerous shapes. At night time, the colourful illumination provides an exquisite contact to an already miraculous sight. 

Lake Biwa Flower Fountain
Afternoon: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Night (Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays): 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm (*not on weekdays)
Night time: Between 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm (*adjustments relying on the day)

6. Michigan Cruise 

From Otsu Port, you possibly can board a sightseeing cruise known as Michigan Cruise. The Michigan Cruise or Biwako Kisen is without doubt one of the most well-known boats on Lake Biwa, even showing in anime. In-built 1982, this paddle boat on the south aspect of the lake boasts buffet eating places and dwell music. It was named after the sister state of Shiga Prefecture, Michigan, in america. There are three varieties of excursions which are provided: an 80-minute daytime tour, a 60-minute morning and night tour and lastly, the night time cruise. Excursions depart from Otsu Port, Nionohana Sightseeing Port and Yanagasaki Lakeside Park Port. Views of Mt. Hira and Mt. Hiei might be seen from the 360-degree sky deck onboard. All three Michigan Cruise choices embrace onboard dwell music and eating places however a complicated reservation is required. 

Michigan Cruise
A number of departures between 10:00 am & 7:30 pm
Boarding charge ¥2,400 ~ ¥3,200

7. Three Islands of Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa has three inhabited islands that may be visited: Okishima, Chikubushima and Takeshima.

The ‘Island of Cats’, Okishima, is the biggest of the three islands and the one inhabited lake island in Japan. There are not any vehicles and supermarkets on the island, and the distinctive place is extensively identified for its quite a few cats and delightful forest. It’s a 10-minute boat highway from the mainland and there are 9 ships a day that make the journey.

Chikubushima is a small island on the northern finish of the lake. It’s the second largest island inside Lake Biwa and is usually known as the ‘Island of Gods’. The island is legendary for the Tsukubusama Shrine which is situated on the island. Chikubushima is the middle of many artwork varieties akin to Noh and koto melody. One widespread attraction is the chance to expertise water and prayer collectively. 

Takeshima is an amazingly stunning place with largely untouched nature. The small uninhabited island has sheer cliffs, plenty of greenery and a few well-known locations to see, together with the Nichiren faculty Kentoji Temple and a stone monument. The complete island is claimed to be a non secular energy spot!

8. Hakodateyama 

Hakodateyama is a mountain high on the north-western aspect of the lake. The mountain gives wonderful climbing trails and a stellar view of the lake. You possibly can journey the gondola up the mountain or from spring to fall hike your method up and luxuriate in a picnic on the high. Within the summertime, there are greater than two million lilies in bloom. After the lilies have completed flowering, the Kokia Park will open from mid-September to mid-October, turning the mountain slope pink with all of the Kochia. Moreover the flower parks, there are some enjoyable actions to do, some eating places and extra.

In winter the mountain is a well known ski resort within the Kansai Area. At 690m above sea degree, it isn’t essentially the most thrilling possibility for the extra seasoned ski followers, nevertheless, it’s identified for heavy snowfall and positively provides some household enjoyable time. There are 3 km of slopes obtainable which might be loved whereas taking within the fairly views of Lake Biwa. Snow rafting and snowshoe excursions are additionally obtainable at Hakodateyama and there’s additionally a cross-country course. Due to using synthetic snow machines, the season usually begins in December. The simplest solution to get there’s taking a practice to Omi-Imazu Station and altering to the native bus from there (20 min). On the resort you possibly can lease your full outfit.

Hakodateyama Ski Resort
Late December to mid-March
Extra data together with gondola charges

9. Biwako Fireworks Pageant

Japanese summers are identified for his or her spectacular fireworks occasions that happen across the nation. Biwako Fireworks Pageant attracts appreciable giant crowds each summer time in early August with its colourful show. About 10,000 colourful fireworks are shot from a number of instructions, creating a singular mild artwork show. You possibly can reserve a paid seat or take a ship cruise to have a greater view of the present with out crowds of pageant goers. One of many highlights of the Biwako Fireworks Pageant is the Biwako Flower Fountain (琵琶湖花噴水), the large fountain situated within the Otsu Port. The collaboration of spectacular fireworks and 40m-high water streams provides a spectacular view!

10. Karasaki Shrine 

Karasaki Shrine is an auxiliary shrine for the Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine. This shrine pays its respects to the goddess deity Princess Wakesuki Hime no Mikoto, making it extremely widespread amongst girls. Karasaki Shrine can also be dwelling to a 100-year previous pine tree that was talked about by the well-known poet Matsuo Basho in one among his poems. The closest station to the shrine is Karasaki Station, a 10-minute stroll. 

Karasaki Shrine
10 am – 4pm

The place to remain in Lake Biwa

Whereas Lake Biwa can simply be visited on a day journey from Kyoto

• Guesthouse En – Lovely previous Japanese home with new amenities and somewhat backyard situated in Maki, Shiga.
• Lake Biwa Marriott Lodge – Luxurious resort with swimming pool and tennis courts situated proper beside Lake Biwa.
• Yumotokan – Ryokan with Japanese model rooms which have stunning lake views and an open air sizzling spring on the rooftop

Lake Biwa is a really fascinating place. It has ensured its legacy due to being situated close to one of the vital essential cities in Japanese historical past. It continues to be a significant pure useful resource supplying water to a few of Japan’s most populated cities, making it an essential physique of water for Japan.

Japan Marvel Journey Excursions 

Japan Marvel Journey is a journey company that gives guided excursions all through Japan. 
From personal strolling excursions to scrumptious Meals and Drink excursions, we may help you set up one of the best excursions only for you! If you wish to discover Japan and be taught extra concerning the historical past and backstories of every space you might be visiting, our educated and pleasant English talking guides will fortunately take you to one of the best spots! 
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