Should you didn’t plan on visiting one of many oldest lakes on the 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 modify your plans.
Lake Biwa is Japan’s largest freshwater lake, and likewise one of many oldest lakes on the planet (some estimate 4 million years outdated). There are 235km of shoreline to discover and it’s top-of-the-line locations for an journey vacation in Shiga. You possibly can go to outdated temples and shrines, scramble your manner up islands, take a cruise on the water and pattern sake!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 thought of what there was to do there, so this was an incredible introduction to Shiga, and I wish to present you what you possibly can anticipate 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 can too preserve studying to search out different causes to go to Lake Biwa, in addition to one of the best locations to remain.
Prime Issues to Do in Lake Biwa, Shiga
Whether or not you wish to escape into Japan’s religious previous or historical brewing practices, or just breathe within the nature, there’s tons to discover on this great area.
1. Hikone fort/Genkyuen
Hikone Citadel was by no means invaded, due to the impenetrable methods that went into the structure. So it’s probably the most well-preserved castles in Japan, surviving wars, fires and the Meiji Restoration—when many castles had been dismantled.
It’s positioned within the metropolis of Hikone in Shiga Prefecture, alongside the jap shores of Lake Biwa. It was constructed in 1603-1622 by li Naokatsu through the Edo interval. It was meant to be an emblem of the li clan’s rule, who had been in cost over a number of generations.
At this time, Hikone Citadel is a well-liked vacationer vacation spot and top-of-the-line causes to go to Lake Biwa and is designated as a Nationwide Treasure by the Japanese authorities. It supplies invaluable 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 way of Ōmihachiman Metropolis, Shiga Prefecture, close to Lake Biwa. It was a significant technique of transportation through 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 through the canal.
Should you take a cruise down the Hachiman-bori Canal, you possibly can see well-preserved conventional wood 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 retailers, cafes, and eating places, in addition to the Himure Hachimangu Shrine.
3. Omi beef
Many individuals will let you know that Omi beef is healthier than Kobe beef, however the individuals of Shiga are attempting to maintain it a secret to scale back demand. Right here you possibly can attempt it in each type potential.
(Morishima/Omi Hachiman major department)
Omi Beef is without doubt 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 a super setting. So in the event you’re curious to attempt Omi beef, it’s top-of-the-line causes to go to Lake Biwa, positioned in Shiga Prefecture. For extra meals you NEED to attempt, take a look at my record of the finest 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 mentioned 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 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 periods the place you possibly can placed on ninja outfits and check out a number of the methods for your self. They even provide a fundamental coaching course!
5. Hieizan Enryakuji Temple and meditation
Sat on high of Mount Hiei is the Hieizan Enryakuji Temple, which is without doubt one of the most vital monasteries in Japanese Buddhism. It was based in 788 AD, turning into one of many high locations for Buddhist scholarship and apply – equivalent 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 e-book 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 through the Edo interval. It’s a extremely advisable place to go to round Lake Biwa, and in the event you do select to meditate there – makes for an awesome religious pause.
6. Shirahige Jinja shrine
Go to the Shirahige Jinja shrine to see the gorgeous Torii gate. It’s one of many lesser-known however most lovely 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, but it surely’s this view that retains individuals coming again.
The remainder of the shrine can also be value 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 whilst you’re right here, be sure to 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 fascinating 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 completely idyllic place.
Though most cruises to Chikubushima Island happen from Nagahama, Imazu, or Otsu, Sugaura is a quaint and historic fishing city with conventional wood homes. It’s value 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 possibly can climb up the steps to get a implausible view over Lake Biwa. You’ll additionally get to see Hogonji Temple and Tsukubusuma Jinja shrine too.
Attempt throwing a disc off the highest and try to in the event you get it by way of 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 also be coated in woodlands, vibrant avian life, and tranquil strolling paths for a pleasant little escape in the midst of a lake!
9. Kawashima Sake Brewery
Wander by way of the village of Harie Shozu to see their carp farms, and learn how their water irrigation system makes for a number 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 could be a fast look in the event you don’t have a translator) and to attempt their totally different sakes too.
As an alternative of manufacturing for giant corporations, Kawashima devoted itself to crafting Sake solely for its clientele, concentrating on growing its signature model, “Matsu no Hana”. So be sure to give that one a go!
Extra issues to do round Lake Biwa
It was unimaginable to do completely the whole lot Lake Biwa and the Shiga area has to supply in simply 5 days. Not as a result of I didn’t take advantage of it, however simply because it’s such a dynamic and fascinating a part of the world to discover with a lot to see and do.
And in the event you’re there for an excellent shorter time frame, planning is essential, which is the place my 4-day to-do record for Shiga turns out to be useful.
So listed here are a number of the issues I didn’t have time for, however are undoubtedly value contemplating. They’e a part of the numerous causes to go to Lake Biwa and Shiga, drawing in vacationers year-round.
10. Omimaiko Seaside
The white sands of Omimaiko Seaside are on the west facet of Lake Biwa. It’s simple to get to by prepare, the place you possibly can cease at Omimaiko Station shut by.
Omimaiko’s sands stretch generously alongside the lake, offering plenty of house for each rest and recreation. There’s additionally backed by pines so it’s a extremely lovely 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 scorching springs space with many lodges. Some are open to day trippers for a small price.
Ogoto Onsen’s historical past is steeped in legend and spirituality. It’s mentioned to have been found over 1,200 years in the past and is intently related to the revered Buddhist monk and scholar, Honen, who purportedly utilised these scorching springs throughout his retreats.
The new spring waters of Ogoto Onsen are alkaline in nature, recognized for his or her silky texture that’s mild on the pores and skin. Wealthy in useful minerals, these waters are sometimes sought out for his or her potential to alleviate quite a lot 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 ends in constant winds, notably throughout sure seasons, so it’s the proper location for windsurfing. There are a number of windsurfing or crusing colleges or leases dotted alongside the lake you could enquire at.
Should you’re a professional or similar to watching, Lake Biwa steadily hosts windsurfing occasions and competitions, drawing fanatics from throughout Japan and past.
13. Okishima island, also referred to as cat island
One in every of Japan’s cat islands, Okishima island is without doubt one of the finest causes to go to Lake Biwa in the event you love felines! They outnumber individuals, which could possibly be because of the truth bikes are the outdated mode of transportation right here in order that they’re much less more likely to be scared by automobiles, or that there’s solely 350 individuals residing right here.
Both manner, in the event you love cats it’s worthwhile to get your self to this floating island. Even in the event you don’t, it’s a reasonably place to go to – but it surely’s useful in the event you 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 plenty of individuals come to ski or snowboard. But it surely’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 panoramic ascent, offering superb views of Lake Biwa under.
15. Tarobogu Bonfire Competition
On the primary Sunday in December, you possibly can 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 possibly can 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 fireplace. The pageant is a part of Shinto and Buddhist practices, utilizing fireplace to keep off evil and cleanse the soul and physique.
16. Miho Museum
Should you 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 powerful fusion of synthetic 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 historical civilisations of Egypt, Greece, and Rome, to treasures from Silk Street cultures, and even embrace items from numerous Asian international locations.
Get to Lake Biwa
Lake Biwa is within the Shiga Prefecture, but it surely’s very easy to get there from Kyoto.
You may get the prepare 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 prepare to Hikone if you wish to be on the east facet.
There’s additionally a bullet prepare 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 categorical prepare to Otsu from Kansai Worldwide Airport in round 80 minutes.
An alternative choice is to hire a automotive from Kansai Worldwide Airport. Main automotive rental corporations like Nissan Lease-a-Automotive, Toyota Lease-a-Automotive, Nippon Lease-a-Automotive, Orix Lease-a-Automotive, and Occasions Automotive Rental have counters at Kansai Airport. They usually have a variety of autos accessible, from compact automobiles 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 finest choices are in Otsu, the place you might select to remain at Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Resort; a towering luxurious lodge providing magnificent views of the lake. It’s additionally conveniently positioned with easy accessibility to each Kyoto and Shiga. Or there’s plenty of conventional Japanese inns often known as Ryokans, the place you possibly can expertise genuine Japanese hospitality, full with tatami rooms and onsen (scorching spring) baths.
Or why not keep in Hikone, which is a historic city with a fort proper by the shores of Lake Biwa. You’ll find all types of recent locations to remain like Consolation Resort Hikone and Hikone Citadel Resort & Spa.
To the north of Lake Biwa lies Nagahama, one other metropolis with a fort and panoramic lake views. Nagahama can also be recognized for Kurokabe Sq., the place conventional black-walled buildings home glassware retailers – a nod to town’s famed glass craftsmanship. The Nagahama Railway Sq. is one other attraction, celebrating town’s historic connection to railways.
You can additionally look into tenting round Lake Biwa, the place there are many campsites to pitch your tent. This offers you extra quick entry to the world’s pure options and is a extra budget-friendly choice to attempt.
