ABOUT
About this spot
Lake Biwa, which covers about one-sixth of Shiga Prefecture, is known as the largest and one of the oldest lakes in Japan. Its vast shores are dotted with abundant nature and many historic sites, offering visitors a wide range of enjoyment. For active travelers, we recommend marine leisure such as canoeing and SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), as well as "Biwaichi," a cycling route around the entire lake. Many campgrounds also line the shore, ideal for enjoying the outdoors with family or friends. If you prefer relaxed sightseeing, visit "Shirahige Shrine," with its beautiful torii gate floating in the lake, or "Biwako Terrace," which offers superb views from the Hira Mountains. The lake surface, which changes its look with the seasons, becomes even more dreamlike at dusk. Combine it with nearby Hikone Castle and the old townscape of Omi-Hachiman, and you can fully savor Shiga's history and nature in a single day. Whether you quietly gaze at the lake on a solo trip or have lively fun with a group, here is a special time to leave the bustle of daily life and refresh your mind.
Last updated March 28, 2026