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Located in the central region of Shiga Prefecture, Lake Biwa belongs to the first-class river system "Yodo River System," covering an area of approximately 670 square kilometers, which accounts for about one-sixth of the total area of the prefecture. The lake's water primarily comes from the surrounding mountains. The water from multiple rivers flowing from Mount Ibuki, the Suzuka Mountains, the Hira Mountains, and other surrounding mountains over 1,000 meters high amounts to 27.5 billion tons, making it the largest lake in Japan by area and water storage capacity, as well as the largest freshwater lake in Japan.
Regarding the history of Lake Biwa, it was originally a small lake near present-day Iga City in Mie Prefecture. Due to tectonic movements, its shape gradually changed, and it moved to its current location about 400,000 years ago, making it one of the last 20 ancient lakes in the world. Lake Biwa is home to a vast number of organisms, many of which are endemic species that have undergone special evolution, with over 60 species existing only in Lake Biwa.
As for activities at Lake Biwa, in addition to enjoying the beautiful scenery where the sky and lake colors blend, there are many unique activities to experience. You can swim at the Miyahama swimming pool, which is selected as one of "Japan's 88 Best Swimming Spots," or try various water leisure activities like canoeing and yachting. You can also participate in the "Biwako Cycling" tour, which involves cycling around the lake (the shoreline is 235 kilometers long).
Surrounding Lake Biwa, there are many scenic spots to enjoy cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. In particular, the eight scenic views around Lake Biwa, known as "Biwako Hakkei," are highly recommended if you visit Lake Biwa. Additionally, at hotels and restaurants around the lakeside, you can taste various dishes made with lake fish, as well as Shiga Prefecture's famous specialty, "Funazushi."
