Japan

Lake Biwa. Hello everyone, I am Xiaolu, today I am sharing Lake Biwa in Japan. Lake Biwa is located in Shiga Prefecture, Japan. It is the largest freshwater lake in Japan, with an area of 674 square kilometers and a shoreline of 241 kilometers. It is named after the natural shape of the traditional Japanese musical instrument Biwa. This geographical location is in the central part of Japan, surrounded by beautiful mountains and lush forests. The lake presents a beautiful arc shape, covering a huge area, like a lake ocean. Lake Biwa is considered one of the oldest lakes in the world, formed at least 4 million years ago. About this lake, there are not only many ancient legends and stories, but also a large number of art works related to it. Lake Biwa is famous for its biodiversity and has many endemic species, from fish, birds, to rare mollusks. To get to Lake Biwa from Kyoto, just take the JR Tokaido Line from Kyoto to Otsu, and you can reach this beautiful lake in 10 minutes. Next, we will introduce the main attractions of Lake Biwa. Ukimido Ukimido is one of the main scenic spots of Lake Biwa. It is also known as one of the Eight Views of Omi and is loved by many haiku poets, including the famous Matsuo Basho. The formal name of the temple is 'Kaimon Mountain Mangetsu Temple', which was built by the monk Gen Shin (Eshin Sozu) of Hieizan during the late Heian period (794-1185) to pray for the safety of the lake water and the peace of all people. Since then, for over 1000 years, Ukimido has been guarding the safety of this important lake traffic area. Chikubushima Chikubushima is a small island located in the northern part of Lake Biwa, but it has been revered as a sacred island since ancient times. There are Hogyoji Temple and Tsusumafu Asama Shrine. Tsusumafu Asama Shrine is very popular as a place of power, and there is a mysterious atmosphere in the Dragon God's place of worship, where there is a unique way of making wishes 'Kawarake Nage'. The view of Lake Biwa from the boat makes you linger. Kaizu Osaki Kaizu Osaki extends to Lake Biwa, and cherry trees stretch for more than 4 kilometers. In spring, the cherry blossoms bloom in full bloom, and rows of cherry trees stand on the vast lakeside. Kaizu Osaki stands with more than 600 cherry trees with lush branches and leaves, most of which have a history of more than 50 years. Under the contrast of rocks and the green water of Lake Biwa, the beauty of cherry blossoms is intoxicating. Cherry trees bloom all the way along the lakeside avenue, making people feel like they are wandering in a cherry blossom tunnel. If you want to enjoy the cherry blossom scenery, why not leisurely row on Lake Biwa. From the lake, you can see the spectacular cherry blossom beauty of Kaizu Osaki. Biwa Lake Valley Biwa Lake Valley overlooks the west bank of Lake Biwa. Since 1965, it has been a ski resort and an outdoor activity paradise in the off-season. This is the best ski resort near Kyoto. Biwa Lake Valley is 1,100 meters above sea level and has eight different ski trails. Half-pipe, curved track, cat track and sled snow track, there is also a ski park suitable for skiers of all levels. All equipment can be rented at the ski resort. The Zekkei Ropeway cable car here can accommodate 121 people, with glass on all sides, you can see the beautiful views of Lake Biwa, snow slopes and autumn leaves. Travel