Lake Biwa is more than just a lake or a tourist destination. For centuries, it has been one of Japan’s most important cultural landscapes where history, faith, and tradition have developed together. Around Japan’s largest lake, you will find shrines quietly standing in forests, temples overlooking the water from the mountains, and historic towns that still preserve the atmosphere of old Japan. Visitors can also experience the beauty of the lake itself through sightseeing cruises that travel across its waters.
This gallery introduces the many faces of Lake Biwa—shrines, temples, beautiful Japanese gardens, scenic tourist destinations, and the rich history and culture that live around the lake. Each scene reflects the timeless charm and stories that make Lake Biwa a unique place in Japan.