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The Biwa Lake Canal is an artificial waterway built during the Meiji era to direct the water source from Lake Biwa to Kyoto City. In 2020, as it marked its 130th anniversary, it was recognized as a Japanese Heritage site. The Biwa Lake Canal consists of the first canal, which connects from Kannonji in Otsu City to Horikuzumachi in Fushimi Ward, Kyoto; the second canal, which runs entirely through tunnels on the north side of the first canal; and a branch canal that extends about 3.3 kilometers from near Keage in Kyoto to Kitashirakawa.
You can take a boat from Otsu on the Biwa Lake Canal downstream to Keage, enjoying various scenic spots along the way. Notable sights include the brick Otsu Gate, which opens to adjust the water level, and the "Ishi-gaku," a stone plaque hanging in the tunnel; the emergency shut-off gate that automatically blocks water flow when an earthquake causes a levee to collapse; the "Shinomiya Funadoko Tunnel," built for transporting goods; the "Anju Bridge," which spans the approach to Bishamonten Shrine; the "No. 11 Bridge," Japan's first reinforced concrete bridge; and many other modern relics like the old Imperial Palace waterway pump house, all of which make for an enjoyable boat trip.
The stone plaques hanging in the tunnel also feature inscriptions from historical figures such as Ito Hirobumi, Yamagata Aritomo, and Inoue Kaoru. Additionally, cherry blossoms bloom along both banks in spring, and the area around Anju Bridge is famous for its rapeseed flower scenery, captivating visitors.
