Tour Lake Biwa on a Cruise Boat

Enjoy panoramic views of Japan's largest freshwater lake

Cruise the glassy blue waters of ancient Lake Biwa, surrounded by verdant mountains and pristine shorelines. Set in the heart of Shiga—just northeast of Kyoto—this four-million-year-old body of water accounts for no less than a sixth of the prefecture's total area. Home to diverse wildlife and endemic species, the lake is also dotted with small islands, shrines, temples, and a floating torii gate waiting to be discovered.

Tour the south end of the lake aboard the Michigan Cruise ship, a grand paddle steamer offering meals, entertainment, and a top deck from which to enjoy sweeping lake vistas. Savor a delicious meal or simply enjoy a refreshing beverage as you take in the sights. Watch as the sun sets in the distance, making way for a row of twinkling lights along the shore (evening cruises are available only in summer).

As the seasons change, so too do the available cruise courses, with special events such as cherry blossom viewing or snowscape viewing periodically available. For an unforgettable tour of the lake, boats can be chartered for group use. If you wish, venture further afield with island-hopping day trips and visit the mystical, conifer-covered Chikubu Island, where the goddess Benzaiten is enshrined. 

Access: From Shin-Osaka Station, take a rapid train on the JR Kyoto Line to Otsu Station (about 35 minutes), then walk to the Otsu Port area (about 17 minutes).

Michigan Sightseeing Cruise (Biwako Kisen Steamship Co., Ltd.)