Here’s Why You Should Cycle Around Japan’s Largest Lake
Pedalling around Lake Biwa isn’t just for advanced cyclists
Are you thinking about visiting Japan, but keen on venturing beyond major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka? Do you enjoy being in the great outdoors, or seeing beautiful countryside landscapes? Are you looking to shake up your travels and try something new? If so, consider a few days of cycling around Japan’s largest lake — Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture!
©️Shiga Prefecture
Pedalling the length of Lake Biwa’s 200 km-long circumference — colloquially known as “Biwaichi” — has become increasingly popular in recent years. It usually takes a fit, experienced cyclist a single day, but most cyclists choose to do the course over two or three days to make the most of the experience. Not only is it a sustainable and pandemic-proof form of travel, but exploring the world on two wheels is also simply a lot of fun. It’s hard not to enjoy yourself when you’re pedalling next to a cerulean blue lake ringed by mountains!
©Biwako Visitors Bureau
Cycling here isn’t just for advanced cyclists with all the kit, and you definitely don’t have to cycle the entire length of the loop! Even a half-day course is a great way to discover some of Shiga’s scenic sights and historic landmarks.
Not convinced yet? Here’s why you should consider cycling around Lake Biwa as part of your holiday.
There’s so much to see and do around Lake Biwa
Often overlooked in favour of its worldly neighbour, Kyoto, the surroundings of Lake Biwa are in fact home to a wealth of wonderful sightseeing spots and experiences to be had, especially around the south side of the lake.
For example, you could spend some time in Hikone City, which has Hikone Castle and the remnants of its charming castle town. From there, you could cycle south to Omi-Hachiman, a former merchant town with willow-lined canals — the traditional architecture and highly walkable (and cyclable) streets will make you feel like you’ve travelled back a century in time — and then on to Sagawa Art Museum with its striking modern architecture. That’s a whole day of sightseeing already!
©Biwako Visitors Bureau
On the west shore, there’s the ethereal floating torii gate of Shirahige Shrine whose stunning view can be best enjoyed through the photo spot in the main shrine, and a gorgeous avenue lined with towering metasequoia trees in Takashima City.
It’s a great add-on to a holiday in Kyoto
What better way to extend your time in this beautiful part of Japan than taking a few days to explore it by bike? Even better, Otsu Station to the south of Lake Biwa is only 10 minutes away from Kyoto Station by train. You don’t need to go very far to begin your cycling adventure.
Lake Biwa’s route is accessible to cyclists of all levels
©️Shiga Prefecture
Don’t let the 200 km circumference put you off — you don’t have to cycle the entirety of Lake Biwa. It’s enough to cycle the parts that interest you! The entire route is mostly flat except for a section on the north side. This means it’s very manageable even for those who don’t cycle very often, and a total breeze on an electric bike. Zipping along a lake with the wind in your hair? Sign us up.
Lots of bike-friendly infrastructure around Lake Biwa
Recent years have also seen marked improvements in bicycle-friendly infrastructure around the Lake Biwa area. The more remote, mountainous northern side notwithstanding, the towns around the lake have many convenience stores, malls, restaurants, and supermarkets. Plus, there are a good number of cyclist-friendly inns and bicycle repair shops — look out for the blue “Biwaichi Cycle Support Station” banners, which means you’re never too far from help — and a variety of guided tours for casual cyclists.
Cycling is economical, efficient, and great exercise
We’re used to driving in Malaysia because of our car-friendly infrastructure, but we’d all save a lot of money (and the environment) if we cycled! Renting a car in Japan can definitely add to the total cost of your trip — and multiple train journeys add up. Beyond the minimal cost of renting a bike, cycling is free!
©️Shiga Prefecture
Cycling also allows you to discover the Lake Biwa area with maximum freedom and flexibility. While there are buses and trains that come once an hour depending on the location, you can just hop on your bike and pedal away. Even better, you can stop to see something interesting whenever you want to without worrying about bus and train schedules.
Best of all? It’s great exercise, which means you’ll have stomach space to eat all the delicious local Omi beef, one of Japan’s top three wagyu, that you want.
©Biwako Takashima Kanko Association
Are you inspired to pedal out of your comfort zone yet? Lake Biwa and its surroundings are beautiful, but exploring it on two wheels is simply unforgettable. With a wide range of bikes for rental, cycle-friendly infrastructure, lots of information about cycling courses, and guided tours available, there’s never been a better time to try cycling around this part of Japan.
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