ABOUT
About this spot
Mangetsu-ji Ukimido in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, stands in Katata at the narrowest part of Lake Biwa, a scenic spot where history and beauty meet. The main highlight is the "Ukimido," built to jut out into the lake. The hall enshrines one thousand statues of Amida Buddha and has long been revered as a sacred place for praying for safety on the lake. Famous haiku poets such as Matsuo Basho and painters visited here and left its beauty in poems and paintings. In particular, the view counted among the Eight Views of Omi as "Descending Geese at Katata" is picturesque from every angle. As a weekend stroll, crossing the bridge while listening to the quiet sound of waves and gazing at Lake Biwa from the hall is exceptional. Looking at Mt. Omi-Fuji (Mt. Mikami) on the opposite shore and the boats passing by, you can forget the bustle of daily life and refresh. It is an ideal place for photogenic shots with friends as well as for calmly reflecting on history alone. Each season has its own charm, so you can discover something new whenever you visit.
Last updated March 27, 2026