Lake Biwa Shiga
Lake Biwa is Japan’s largest freshwater lake, situated entirely within Shiga Prefecture. It has a rich history as a cradle of early Japanese culture, and offers historic sites, scenic islands, and water-based recreation.
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Geography
| Continent | Asia |
|---|---|
| Region | East Asia |
| Subregion | East Asia |
| Country | Japan |
| State | Shiga Prefecture |
| County | Shiga Village |
| District | Lake Biwa Basin |
| City | Otsu and Hikone |
| Postal Code | 520-0000 |
| Timezone | AsiaTokyo |
| Latitude | 35.28 |
| Longitude | 136.1 |
| Maps |
4:59 AM LOCAL TIMELake Biwa is Japan’s largest and oldest freshwater lake, lying entirely within Shiga Prefecture and serving as a vital regional resource. With a surface area of approximately 670 km² and elevations ranging from about 84 m to over 850 m at Hieizan, the lake has carved broad plains and steep terraced shorelines. It’s known for historic sites along its shores, including ancient temples and famous fossil beds near the southern exit, as well as for scenic islands like Oki-no-Shima and Chikubu-shima which offer visitors temples, caves, and walking trails. The lake acts as a transportation corridor and supports a variety of water sports, while overflows to the Seta and Kasu rivers connect it to Japan’s broader drainage system. Visitors come to enjoy lakeside parks, basin cycling routes, local cuisine, and to explore the nearby cities of Otsu and Hikone. Note that water levels and shoreline conditions can change with climate and dam operations, so check local sources when planning active days.
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