Lake Biwa (琵琶湖, Biwa-ko) is scenic and historically significant spot, located in Shiga Prefecture, just northeast of Kyoto. Lake Biwa is Japan’s largest and oldest freshwater lake, covering 670 km² with a depth of 104 meters at its deepest point. Because of its age (over 4 million years old), it is one of the few ancient lakes in the world, like Lake Baikal (Russia) and Lake Tanganyika (Africa). This longevity has allowed it to develop a unique ecosystem with endemic species, including the famous Biwa trout (Biwa masu, ビワマス).
Around the lake, you can find many significant destinations, such as Shirahige Shrine (白鬚神社) – One of Japan’s most scenic shrines, known for its floating torii gate that looks like Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima, and has been around for about 2,000 years. Along the eastern shores of the lake in the town of Hikone, you can find Hikone Castle. Hikone Castle was first built in the 1620’s, and to this day is one of the original 12 castle’s of Japan.
Outdoor activites around the lake are also very popular. The Biwaichi (ビワイチ) Cycling Route is a 200 km loop around the lake, taking about 1-2 days to complete depending on ability. Fishing is also very popular, with several bass fishing charters available.
Accessing Lake Biwa
There are several cities along or near the shores of Lake Biwa. Both sides of the lake have a rail line nearby the water’s edge, making it easy to access from just about anywhere around the lake.
Lake Biwa is only minutes outside of the central area of Kyoto. Coming from Kyoto Station, you want to take the Tokaido-Sanyo Line on Local Yasu from Platform 2, and ride the train until Otsu Station, which will be a mere 200JPY and take 9 minutes. From there, the lake front is only minutes away from the Train Station.
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