Lake Biwa

Tourist attraction
★ 4.7 (200+ reviews) • 2K+ 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.
See more
See more
Lake Biwa, Shiga Prefecture, Japan

The best of Lake Biwa

More to explore

Lake Biwa&Shirasu Shrine&Old Bamboo Forest One-day Tour |Osaka/Kyoto

Lake Biwa&Shirasu Shrine&Old Bamboo Forest One-day Tour |Osaka/Kyoto

English available
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.2 (204)
AUD 108.49
Departing from Kyoto·Kimono shooting at Lake Biwa

Departing from Kyoto·Kimono shooting at Lake Biwa

Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
AUD 763.25
Biwako Resort Shirahamaso

Biwako Resort Shirahamaso

Instant confirmation
From AUD 296.08

Why people love Lake Biwa

4.7 /5
204 reviews
Read all reviews
HSIEH *********
3 days ago
The tour guide Yang Sang gave a very detailed explanation, which gave us a better understanding of the scenic spots. We can easily go to the Mixiu Art Museum or Shirassu Shrine, which are inconvenient to traffic.
Klook 用戶
4 days ago
The Veggie tour guide is great, kind and considerate, and explains carefully. He is a great Veggie. It's a pity that the weather is not perfect.
2+
LIN ********
16 Dec
I am very lucky to visit the Meixiu Museum on the last day of the year. The sunshine is bright, the light and shadow are intertwined to match the different faces of the museum. Pre-careful reminders of the small troubles that will be encountered during the journey, make the whole journey smooth and pleasant, and add a reminder after the tour ends, in Kansai travel suggested attractions and precautions, professional and warm ❤️
2+
Klook 用戶
15 Dec
Tour guide Xiao Zhao added a lot of points to the trip, and his service attitude was just right and impressive.👍👍
THEA ******************
11 Dec
We had Matthew as the guide, and he was really pleasant and accommodating. I was the only English-speaking tourist on this trip but he made sure to let me know everything that was happening. The trip was smooth, the places we visited were gorgeous (though the last shrine was under renovation, but that can't be helped!), and the experience was well worth the value to see less visited areas.
1+
Klook客路用户
8 Dec
This is a niche attraction, much better than the ones in various guides. The art museum has a strong I.M. Pei style, and the old bamboo forest is less crowded and has a good view, which is much better than the popular attractions on the Internet. The tour guide Sun is professional and introduced a lot of humanities, geography, and history on the way, including the changes of the capital, the introduction of Buddhism, the geographical location, customs, local specialties, and representative attractions of the Kansai region.
yeung ****
2 Dec
do recommended. nice tour guide. good value.
林 **
2 Dec
The tour guide Zhao Jing is very kind, professional and provides very good service. She is a recommended five-star tour guide. Meixiu Art Museum is a very worthwhile attraction and the focus of this itinerary.
2+

Nearby places to go

45K+ visitors
49K+ visitors
228K+ visitors
273K+ visitors
9K+ visitors
272K+ visitors
381K+ visitors
226K+ visitors

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.