Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake, offers far more than just a picturesque view. Embarking on a road trip around its shoreline reveals an ever-changing tapestry of seasonal landscapes, scenic lakefronts, historic towns, elegant resort hotels, and soothing hot springs. Easily accessible from the Kansai region, it’s an ideal destination for a one- or two-night getaway, perfect for a weekend or short holiday.
The classic driving route—known locally as Biwaichi—typically follows a clockwise loop. Starting from the western shore allows you to depart with the morning sun at your back and arrive at eastern viewpoints just in time for a breathtaking sunset, making nature itself your travel companion.
A recommended starting point is Ōtsu, located at the southern tip of the lake and just a 30-minute drive from Kyoto. Here, Biwako Valley and Biwako Terrace offer panoramic views from mountaintops rising 1,100 meters above sea level. On clear days, you might even see as far as Awaji Island. Arriving early allows you to begin your journey in the crisp morning air, with sunlight gently illuminating your path.
Heading north along the western shore, you’ll encounter Shirahige Shrine in Takashima City, where a torii gate stands serenely in the lake—a mystical sight often called “the Itsukushima of Lake Biwa.” Further along lies Makino Highland, home to the famous metasequoia-lined avenue, which transforms with the seasons. Whether ablaze with autumn leaves or dusted in winter snow, its beauty is breathtaking. Nearby hot spring facilities offer the perfect rest stop to relax and soak in the scenery.
The northern shores of Lake Biwa are home to towns like Nagahama and Hikone, where the legacy of castle towns and centuries-old architecture still resonates in the streets. In Nagahama, visitors can explore the elegant atmosphere of Kurokabe Square, with its glass workshops and restored machiya cafés. In Hikone, the National Treasure Hikone Castle stands as a proud symbol of the region’s history, while the town invites a bit of playful charm through its beloved mascot, “Hikonyan.” Both towns offer convenient lakeside parking, making them perfect stops on a road trip.
As you continue south along the eastern side of the lake, areas like Ōmihachiman and Moriyama offer moments of calm and cultural immersion. In Ōmihachiman, the preserved merchant townscape and canal boat rides offer a slow and meaningful way to experience the town’s atmosphere. Moriyama, meanwhile, has recently grown in popularity for its upscale glamping sites and resort hotels with private spas—places where the stay itself becomes the highlight of the journey.
Choosing lakeside accommodations—whether resort hotels or traditional inns with hot springs—allows you to embrace Lake Biwa’s beauty from dawn to dusk. Many offer open-air baths with lake views or dining spaces where you can watch the morning light sparkle on the water. In the stillness of the night, with the soft sounds of nature surrounding you, both body and soul find a deep sense of renewal.
A drive around Lake Biwa is not merely a route—it is a journey of pause and discovery, where nature and culture unfold with every stop. Each region reveals a unique character, and the gentle presence of water weaves them all together. With easy access from the Kansai area, Lake Biwa offers an ideal backdrop for a road trip that fulfills the heart through scenery, cuisine, and quiet rejuvenation.