Reviews, Local food , Transportation Information, and Map Information of Lake Biwa

1.Basic Information

Located in Shiga Prefecture, Lake Biwa is the largest freshwater lake in Japan, with an area of 670km² and a maximum depth of 104m. The lake stretches about 60km from north to south and about 20km from east to west, with a total lakeshore line of approximately 235km. Formed near Iga City in Mie Prefecture about 4 million years ago, this lake has moved and changed shape due to fault movements and sediment deposition, and has been in its current position for at least 400,000 years. Lake Biwa has a diverse ecosystem, with over 1,700 species of aquatic plants and animals, including more than 60 endemic species. Lake sports and tourism are popular, and the lakeside roads are suitable for cycling and walking.

Chikubushima Island

Located in the northern part of Lake Biwa, Chikubushima Island has been considered a sacred island and a subject of worship since ancient times. The island features two important structures, Hougonji Temple and Tukubusumajinjya Shrine, both of which are designated as national treasures. At this shrine, there is a traditional custom of wish-making called “kawarake-nage”, where you write your wish on an earthenware piece and throw it at the torii gate. If the earthenware piece passes through the gate, it is believed that your wish will come true. Access to the island is available by cruise ships departing from Nagahama Port or Imazu Port.

Okishima Island

Okishima Island is the largest island in Lake Biwa, located 1.5 km offshore with a circumference of about 6.8 km and an area of about 1.53k㎡. With about 250 inhabitants, it is a rare example of a populated lake island worldwide, attracting academic attention. Transport relies on boats, with regular services for school and work commutes. Traditional lifestyle and rich nature are well-preserved.

Shirahige Shrine

This shrine is notable for its large red torii gate standing on the surface of the lake. More than 2,000 years old, the shrine is widely cherished by people for granting various wishes such as longevity, matchmaking, luck, academic achievement, traffic safety, and maritime safety.

2.Reviews

The summer tradition “Lake Biwa Fireworks Festival” will be held on August 8, 2023, after a four-year hiatus. It was a popular event that previously attracted about 350,000 tourists. You can enjoy about 10,000 fireworks for 60 minutes from around Otsu Port and Nagisa Park on the lakeside of Lake Biwa.

Previously, Okishima Island in Lake Biwa was known as Cat Island because of its many cats, but the number has significantly decreased in recent years. It seems that the island’s residents do not know why the number of cats temporarily increased and then suddenly decreased.

3.Local Food

Introduction to hot pot dishes using meat from all over Japan

Japanese hot pot cuisine is a dish where various ingredients are simmered in a broth. The broth, made from kelp and bonito flakes, is flavored with soy sauce or miso. Thinly sliced beef or pork, vegetables, and tofu are added. Eating together deepens the bonds with family and friends, making it especially popular during the cold seasons.

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Introduction to Yakiniku

Yakiniku is a dish where meat and vegetables are grilled on a wire mesh over charcoal or gas. The grilled meat is dipped in a sauce made from soy sauce, sake, sugar, fruit, garlic, sesame, etc., and eaten. Salt, lemon, and pepper are also often sprinkled on the meat. While beef is the main meat used, pork and chicken are also popular. The taste and texture differ greatly depending on the cut of meat, so we will introduce some representative cuts below.

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Introduction to Western Japan’s  Ramen: Part 1

In Western Japan, there are several nationally famous types of ramen. Among them, Onomichi Ramen from Hiroshima Prefecture and Wakayama Ramen from Wakayama Prefecture are particularly well-known. Recently, Toyama Black Ramen, characterized by its black soup, has also gained popularity. Each of these ramen types has its unique flavor, symbolizing the diversity of Japanese ramen culture.

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4.Transportation Information

We recommend the course using Otsu Port for sightseeing in Lake Biwa.
It’s about a 15-minute walk from Otsu Station on the JR line to Otsu Port on Lake Biwa, and a 3-minute walk from Otsu Station on the Keihan line.
Lake Biwa Boat Official Website: (Available in English, Korean, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Thai)
https://www.biwakokisen.co.jp/

5.Map Information

Shiga Prefecture is located in the Kinki region of Japan, with the prefectural capital being Otsu City. Although it is the 10th smallest prefecture in Japan, more than half of its area is mountainous, and about one-sixth is occupied by Lake Biwa. This makes the summer heat and winter cold relatively mild. Due to its geographical location, Shiga Prefecture developed as a supply source and relay point for goods and personnel to Nara, Kyoto, and Osaka. Furthermore, with its rich nature and lower land prices compared to Kyoto and Osaka, there is high demand for housing as a commuting area, and the population is increasing. Along with this, commercial facilities and manufacturing bases are increasing by utilizing the convenience of transportation.