16 Finest Issues to Do in Lake Biwa, Japan

For those who didn’t plan on visiting one of many oldest lakes on this planet whereas in Japan, you may have to rethink. In lower than I week I noticed shrines, meditated, cruised round an island and drank sake! So, right here’s 16 of one of the best issues to do in Lake Biwa in Shiga to make you alter your plans.

Lake Biwa is Japan’s largest freshwater lake, and likewise one of many oldest lakes on this planet (some estimate 4 million years previous). There are 235km of shoreline to discover and it’s among the best locations for an journey vacation in Shiga. You possibly can go to previous temples and shrines, scramble your means up islands, take a cruise on the water and pattern sake!

I spent 5 days in Shiga in Autumn and had a beautiful time. I’d been invited on a press journey and didn’t actually have a lot of an concept of what there was to do there, so this was a tremendous introduction to Shiga, and I need to present you what you may count on to see.

Shiga kinds a mountainous circle round Lake Biwa, and there’s a lot to do round right here. These are issues I received as much as, however you may as well preserve studying to search out different causes to go to Lake Biwa, in addition to one of the best locations to remain.

1. Hikone fort/Genkyuen

Hikone Fort was by no means invaded, because of the impenetrable methods that went into the structure. So it’s one of the vital well-preserved castles in Japan, surviving wars, fires and the Meiji Restoration—when many castles have been dismantled.

It’s positioned within the metropolis of Hikone in Shiga Prefecture, alongside the japanese shores of Lake Biwa. It was constructed in 1603-1622 by li Naokatsu throughout the Edo interval. It was meant to be a logo of the li clan’s rule, who have been in cost over a number of generations.

Right now, Hikone Fort is a well-liked vacationer vacation spot and among the best causes to go to Lake Biwa and is designated as a Nationwide Treasure by the Japanese authorities. It supplies worthwhile insights into Japanese feudal structure and the historical past of the Edo interval. Yearly, many guests climb to the highest of the principle preserve, which has nice panoramic views of Lake Biwa and the encircling metropolis.

2. Hachiman-bori Canal and waterway cruise

The Hachiman-bori is utilized in many Japanese TV exhibits and movies as a backdrop for olde Japan. You possibly can take a water cruise down the historic waterway or stroll alongside them.

The canal runs by Ōmihachiman Metropolis, Shiga Prefecture, close to Lake Biwa. It was a significant technique of transportation throughout the Edo interval, designed to attach town to the lake for commerce and strategic functions.

Ōmihachiman quickly developed as a key transportation and business hub, with rice, sake, and different items being transported by way of the canal.

For those who take a cruise down the Hachiman-bori Canal, you may see well-preserved conventional picket townhouses (machiya) and storehouses (kura) dotted alongside the way in which, paying homage to the Edo and Meiji durations. There’s additionally a variety of quaint outlets, cafes, and eating places, in addition to the Himure Hachimangu Shrine.

3. Omi beef

Many individuals will inform you that Omi beef is best than Kobe beef, however the individuals of Shiga try to maintain it a secret to cut back demand. Right here you may attempt it in each kind doable.

(Morishima/Omi Hachiman principal department)

Omi Beef is likely one of the ‘Three Nice Wagyu’ of Japan, alongside Kobe and Matsusaka beef. It’s been round for 400 years, recognised because the oldest beef model within the nation. You possibly can immediately recognise it by its marbling, tender texture and deep umami flavour.

The cattle are raised within the Shiga Prefecture, with its lush pure atmosphere offering an excellent setting. So if you happen to’re curious to attempt Omi beef, it’s among the best causes to go to Lake Biwa, positioned in Shiga Prefecture. For extra meals you NEED to attempt, try my listing of the greatest issues to eat in Japan.

4. Koka-ryu Ninja Home

Koka, together with its counterpart Iga, was pivotal in shaping the historical past of ninjas within the nation – and it’s stated that the concept of the ninja was born right here. So whereas there are a number of causes to go to Lake Biwa, certainly one of them is which you could go to an precise ninja home right here.

It’s a labyrinth of surprises. With a number of entice doorways, hidden compartments, and elaborate escape routes, each nook reveals a narrative of survival, technique, and brilliance. It’s a construction designed for elusion and safety, a little bit of a distinction to vibes of Lake Biwa surrounding it.

You possibly can tour Kok-ryu Ninja home and see demonstrations of ninja methods and weaponry like shuriken, katana and blowguns! There’s additionally interactive classes the place you may placed on ninja outfits and take a look at a few of the methods for your self. They even provide a primary coaching course!

5. Hieizan Enryakuji Temple and meditation

Sat on high of Mount Hiei is the Hieizan Enryakuji Temple, which is likely one of the most vital monasteries in Japanese Buddhism. It was based in 788 AD, changing into one of many high locations for Buddhist scholarship and apply – akin to  kaihōgyō (marathon monks).

There are over 300 temples up on the Hieizan Enryakuji temple, and it’s one of many highest factors across the Lake Biwa. It’s chilly up there however completely well worth the climb for the views. And you may even guide onto a Buddhist monk zen meditation expertise to hone your meditation abilities.

The Hieizan Enryakuji Temple is definitely a World Heritage Web site. It was partially destroyed through the years however rebuilt throughout the Edo interval. It’s a extremely advisable place to go to round Lake Biwa, and if you happen to do select to meditate there – makes for a fantastic religious pause.

6. Shirahige Jinja shrine

Go to the Shirahige Jinja shrine to see the attractive Torii gate. It’s one of many lesser-known however most stunning in all of Japan. Go to at sundown to see these nightfall colors doing their factor. You possibly can take boat rides out, and discover the temple, however it’s this view that retains individuals coming again.

The remainder of the shrine can be price visiting too. Shirahige Jinja Shrine means ‘White Beard Shrine’. It’s because it’s among the many oldest shrines in Japan, with its historical past stretching again over 1,900 years. As legend has it, the shrine venerates the deity Sarutahiko-no-mikoto, who’s believed to be the god of longevity and good well being. So when you’re right here, ensure you search these blessings for a protracted and affluent life.

7. Sugaura and a Chikubushima Island cruise

Take a strolling tour round Sugaura to be taught extra concerning the attention-grabbing historical past of Shiga, and to see the temples and relic gate of the village. Solely 100 individuals reside right here and it’s arrange as an idyllic commune, in a very idyllic place.

Though most cruises to Chikubushima Island happen from Nagahama, Imazu, or Otsu, Sugaura is a quaint and historic fishing city with conventional picket homes. It’s price wandering round earlier than you head off to see the island, which is fairly shut by.

That is undoubtedly one of many high issues to do in Lake Biwa.

From Sugaura, catch the ferry over to Chikubuhsima Island to see extra of the religious facet of Lake Biwa.

8. Chikubushima island

When you get to the island, you may climb up the steps to get a unbelievable view over Lake Biwa. You’ll additionally get to see Hogonji Temple and Tsukubusuma Jinja shrine too.

Strive throwing a disc off the highest and try to if you happen to get it by the Torii Gate, your want is alleged to come back true! It’s dates again to the late 1500s and is the place the goddess Benzaiten is enshrined.

The island can be coated in woodlands, vibrant avian life, and tranquil strolling paths for a pleasant little escape in the course of a lake!

9. Kawashima Sake Brewery

Wander by the village of Harie Shozu to see their carp farms, and learn how their water irrigation system makes for a few of the cleanest water in Japan. Which, makes for glorious water for sake. Yay!

The Kawashima Sake Brewery relies right here, and has been since 1865. Pop in for a tour (though it is likely to be a fast look if you happen to don’t have a translator) and to attempt their completely different sakes too.

As a substitute of manufacturing for giant corporations, Kawashima devoted itself to crafting Sake completely for its clientele, concentrating on creating its signature model, “Matsu no Hana”. So ensure you give that one a go!

Extra issues to do round Lake Biwa

It was unimaginable to do completely all the things Lake Biwa and the Shiga area has to supply in simply 5 days. Not as a result of I didn’t profit from it, however simply because it’s such a dynamic and attention-grabbing a part of the world to discover with a lot to see and do.

And if you happen to’re there for a fair shorter time period, planning is vital, which is the place my 4-day to-do listing for Shiga turns out to be useful.

So listed below are a few of the issues I didn’t have time for, however are undoubtedly price contemplating. They’e a part of the numerous causes to go to Lake Biwa and Shiga, drawing in vacationers year-round.

10. Omimaiko Seashore

The white sands of Omimaiko Seashore are on the west facet of Lake Biwa. It’s simple to get to by practice, the place you may cease at Omimaiko Station shut by.

Omimaiko’s sands stretch generously alongside the lake, offering a number of house for each leisure and recreation. There’s additionally backed by pines so it’s a very stunning place of the world to be. You may also play volleyball, and even kayak or paddleboard to soak up the views of mountains from the water.

11. Ogoto Onsen

Additionally on the west facet, Ogoto Onsen is a well-liked sizzling springs space with many resorts. Some are open to day trippers for a small price.

Ogoto Onsen’s historical past is steeped in legend and spirituality. It’s stated to have been found over 1,200 years in the past and is carefully related to the revered Buddhist monk and scholar, Honen, who purportedly utilised these sizzling springs throughout his retreats.

The new spring waters of Ogoto Onsen are alkaline in nature, identified for his or her silky texture that’s light on the pores and skin. Wealthy in useful minerals, these waters are sometimes sought out for his or her potential to alleviate a wide range of illnesses, together with muscle ache, joint stiffness, pores and skin situations, and fatigue.

12. Windsurf or go crusing

Lake Biwa’s geographic orientation usually leads to constant winds, notably throughout sure seasons, so it’s the right location for windsurfing. There are a number of windsurfing or crusing colleges or leases dotted alongside the lake which you could enquire at.

For those who’re a professional or similar to watching, Lake Biwa steadily hosts windsurfing occasions and competitions, drawing fans from throughout Japan and past.

13. Okishima island, often known as cat island

One in all Japan’s cat islands, Okishima island is likely one of the greatest causes to go to Lake Biwa if you happen to love felines! They outnumber individuals, which may very well be as a result of reality bikes are the previous mode of transportation right here so that they’re much less prone to be scared by vehicles, or that there’s solely 350 individuals dwelling right here.

Both means, if you happen to love cats you have to get your self to this floating island. Even if you happen to don’t, it’s a reasonably place to go to – however it’s useful if you happen to do give they’re in all places.

14. Biwako Valley

Biwako Valley might be essentially the most well-known attraction round Lake Biwa. It’s a ski resort within the winter, the place a number of individuals come to ski or snowboard. However it’s additionally open year-round for Shiga hikers, who can climb the mountains in hotter months the place there’s no snow.

The Biwako Valley Ropeway, one of many space’s highlights, takes guests on a wide ranging ascent, offering wonderful views of Lake Biwa beneath.

15. Tarobogu Bonfire Pageant

On the primary Sunday in December, you may get pleasure from bonfire shows on the mountains by Tarobogu Shrine. On the day, there are many shuttles taking you from Tarobogu-mae Station to the shrine, or you may climb the 700 steps to get to it.

As soon as the bonfire will get going, 100,000 goma prayer tablets from throughout Japan are burnt within the hearth. The pageant is a part of Shinto and Buddhist practices, utilizing hearth to chase away evil and cleanse the soul and physique.

16. Miho Museum

For those who love structure or artwork, the Miho Museum is one other of the highest causes to go to Lake Biwa. It’s designed by world-famous architect I. M. Pei, providing guests a formidable fusion of artificial and pure magnificence.

The museum’s entrance is especially noteworthy. Guests cross a luminous tunnel and a futuristic suspension bridge, which is meant to be a symbolic journey of transitioning from a chaotic outer world to the peaceable realm of artwork and nature.

Inside, the Miho Museum homes a set of over 2,000 artworks, with about 250 on show at any given time. These vary from historic civilisations of Egypt, Greece, and Rome, to treasures from Silk Highway cultures, and even embody items from numerous Asian international locations.

Methods to Get to Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa is within the Shiga Prefecture, however it’s very easy to get there from Kyoto.

You may get the practice simply from Kyoto Station to Otsu. This prices ¥180 – ¥250 and takes simply ten minutes. Go to Otsu if you wish to be on the southern tip of Lake Biwa, or catch the practice to Hikone if you wish to be on the east facet.

There’s additionally a bullet practice from Hikone and Maibara stations. Take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo to Maibara Station. From Maibara, native trains or buses can take you to varied factors round Lake Biwa. An alternative choice is to get off the Shinkansen at Kyoto after which take the JR Biwako Line as talked about above.

You possibly can go to Shiga direct from Kansai Airport. Simply get the Haruka restricted specific practice to Otsu from Kansai Worldwide Airport in round 80 minutes.

An alternative choice is to lease a automotive from Kansai Worldwide Airport. Main automotive rental corporations like Nissan Hire-a-Automobile, Toyota Hire-a-Automobile, Nippon Hire-a-Automobile, Orix Hire-a-Automobile, and Instances Automobile Rental have counters at Kansai Airport. They usually have a variety of automobiles out there, from compact vehicles to bigger vans.

The place to remain round Lake Biwa

There are many choices to remain shut by Lake Biwa and discover the area.

A number of the greatest choices are in Otsu, the place you would select to remain at Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Lodge; a towering luxurious resort providing magnificent views of the lake. It’s additionally conveniently positioned with quick access to each Kyoto and Shiga. Or there’s a number of conventional Japanese inns referred to as Ryokans, the place you may expertise genuine Japanese hospitality, full with tatami rooms and onsen (sizzling spring) baths.

Or why not keep in Hikone, which is a historic city with a fort proper by the shores of Lake Biwa. You could find all kinds of contemporary locations to remain like Consolation Lodge Hikone and Hikone Fort Resort & Spa.

To the north of Lake Biwa lies Nagahama, one other metropolis with a fort and panoramic lake views. Nagahama can be identified for Kurokabe Sq., the place conventional black-walled buildings home glassware outlets – a nod to town’s famed glass craftsmanship. The Nagahama Railway Sq. is one other attraction, celebrating town’s historic connection to railways.

You may additionally look into tenting round Lake Biwa, the place there are many campsites to pitch your tent. This provides you extra quick entry to the realm’s pure options and is a extra budget-friendly choice to attempt.