Lake Biwa

Tourist attraction
★ 4.7 (50+ reviews) • 9K+ booked
Discover the enchanting beauty and cultural richness of Lake Biwa Omihachiman, Japan's largest lake. Immerse yourself in the historic 'Eight Views of Omi' ukiyo-e pictures that capture the essence of this majestic destination. Lake Biwa offers a plethora of activities and insights into Japanese history, making it a must-visit location for travelers seeking a fun and enlightening experience. Welcome to the charming former merchant town of Omihachiman, nestled on the shores of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, Japan. With its well-preserved historical buildings and picturesque waterways, Omihachiman offers a glimpse into Japan's rich past and cultural heritage. Experience the tranquility of this quaint town, away from the hustle and bustle of major cities like Osaka and Tokyo. Immerse yourself in the charm of Omihachiman, a hidden gem near Lake Biwa that transports you back to the Edo period. With its historical buildings, picturesque canals, and rich cultural heritage, Omihachiman offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience in Kansai.
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Lake Biwa, Shiga Prefecture, Japan

The best of Lake Biwa

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Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, & Awaji Island Private Car Charter Tour

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Why people love Lake Biwa

4.7 /5
66 reviews
Read all reviews
Wong *******
4 Sep
The driver was very punctual and recommended different attractions. He contacted us via WhatsApp the night before and could add or subtract the itinerary at will.
Klook 用戶
23 Aug
In fact, I was very anxious from the time I placed the order to the day before departure. I had not received the contact information for the chartered car and I read a lot of experience sharing about being released. But luckily, I successfully received the contact information (middleman and driver) the afternoon before departure. The driver was very kind and kind. He helped us communicate with klook when purchasing tickets for the cruise ship and view land. The car provided by klook was also very clean. The overall experience was good and I will use klook's car charter service if I have the opportunity.
2+
LAI *******
17 Aug
very good! The small group is very private, the tour guide can speak Chinese and English, and will proactively notify the pick-up arrangements by text message one day in advance, which makes you feel at ease about the meeting location and time when traveling overseas. The pick-up and drop-off status will be interactive, and pick-up location notifications will be sent at each attraction, so you don't have to worry about not finding the pick-up location. He also takes the initiative to chat with tourists and recommend other related attractions, which is really considerate. In addition, you have plenty of time to visit attractions. Compared with other tours, the charges are reasonable (because I have tried a tour that was more expensive than this but required a group of 40 people plus three tour buses to visit together...🤦‍♀️), so this tour is great👍🏻
2+
Klook 用戶
13 Aug
I am very grateful to the tour guide Xiao Zhao for all the arrangements. There will also be a detailed introduction to the scenic spots before arriving! I just happened to meet a dumbfounding passenger that day. He arrived late but was not satisfied with the seating arrangement. He yelled at the tour guide directly and loudly. Later, after the trip, he unreasonably scolded the tour guide and started to fight. The tour guide Xiao Zhao and the driver brother had a really hard day, but we all thought her arrangements were very thoughtful!
1+
Klook用戶
5 Aug
The day before departure remember to check your email/message, the guide will update the license plate. We arrived at the meeting point on time on the day of departure. There were Taiwanese, mainland and Hong Kong people on board, so we arranged for a Mandarin-speaking guide. Before going to each location, the guide will brief you on the history/relevant information on the car, and when you get off the car, you will be told the time of the tour and the meeting point. The middle process does not sell anything at all and moves freely on its own. If you like to travel freely, but don't want to drive/find a car yourself, this trip is definitely for you 👍🏻
1+
Tsou ****
3 Aug
The driver was great, the car was very comfortable and clean, and we were able to go wherever we wanted to go. The driver was also very enthusiastic and discussed things with us. Highly recommended!
2+
HU *******
29 Jul
Very cool! I originally planned to go to Nara, but after the driver’s recommendation, I went to Uji. It was very worth it! The itinerary is very free and flexible. It is highly recommended for small groups with a family or a group of friends!
1+
HU *******
29 Jul
I had a lot of fun in Kyoto. Even though there were a lot of people in Arashiyama in the morning and it was very hot, I also went to Matsuo Taisha Shrine. There were very few people and I really liked it. It was a place that is difficult to reach without driving and it was worth it! And I also helped to order the amazing eel rice for dinner, which fulfilled my family’s wish. Thank you very much 🥹
2+

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FAQs about Lake Biwa

How can I get around Lake Biwa?

What are the best views of Lake Biwa?

What watersports and beach activities are available at Lake Biwa?

What to know before visiting Lake Biwa

Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Boat Cruises on Lake Biwa

Embark on a scenic boat ride on Lake Biwa with two exceptional cruise options. Experience the charm of the American-inspired Michigan Paddle Steamer or explore Chikubu Island with its historic temples and serene landscapes. Both cruises offer unique perspectives of Lake Biwa's beauty.

Castles of Lake Biwa

Visit the iconic Hikone Castle and Nagahama Castle, each offering a glimpse into Japan's rich history. Explore the well-preserved Hikone Castle with its stunning Genkyūen Garden, or wander through Nagahama Castle for picturesque views of the lake. These castles are a testament to the region's cultural heritage.

Temples and Shrines of Lake Biwa

Discover the spiritual side of Lake Biwa with visits to Miidera, Omi-Jingu, Hogonji, and Chomeiji temples. Experience the tranquility of Mangetsuji Ukimido, a wooden temple by the lake, and explore the sacred grounds of Hiei Mountain World Heritage Site. These sites offer a glimpse into Japan's religious traditions and architectural marvels.

Local Cuisine

Indulge in the flavors of Lake Biwa with popular local dishes like Omi beef and fresh seafood. Experience traditional dining experiences that showcase the region's culinary delights, offering a unique gastronomic adventure for food enthusiasts.

Culture and History

Immerse yourself in Omihachiman's rich cultural heritage, from its Edo period buildings to the vibrant festivals that showcase the town's traditions.

Canal Beauty

The picturesque canals of Omihachiman offer a tranquil setting for leisurely walks and boat rides, surrounded by historic buildings and lush greenery that come alive with the changing seasons.