Introduction to Instagram-Worthy Photos in Shiga Prefecture
Lake Biwa, located in Shiga Prefecture, is Japan’s largest freshwater lake, covering an area of 670 km² with a maximum depth of 104 meters. The lake stretches about 60 km from north to south and about 20 km from east to west, with a shoreline approximately 235 km long. Formed near Iga City in Mie Prefecture around 4 million years ago, the lake has moved and changed shape due to fault movements and sediment accumulation, and has existed in its current location for at least 400,000 years.
Lake Biwa
Lake Biwa boasts a diverse ecosystem with over 1,700 species of aquatic plants and animals, including more than 60 endemic species. The lake is popular for water sports and tourism, and the lakeshore roads are ideal for cycling and walking.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 19-minute walk from Otsu Station
Chikubu Island
Located in the northern part of Lake Biwa, Chikubu Island has been considered sacred since ancient times and is a site of worship. The island is home to two important architectural structures: Hogonji Temple and Tsukubusuma Shrine, both designated as National Treasures. At this shrine, there is a traditional practice called “kawarake-nage,” where wishes are written on clay plates and thrown through a torii gate to make the wish come true. Access to the island is available via cruise ships from Nagahama Port or Imazu Port.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: ▶30-minute boat ride via Biwako Kisen
Okishima Island
Okishima Island is located 1.5 km offshore in Lake Biwa, with a circumference of about 6.8 km and an area of approximately 1.53 km², making it the largest island in Lake Biwa. With about 250 residents, it is rare worldwide to have an inhabited island in a freshwater lake, attracting academic interest. Transportation relies on boats, with regular services for commuting and schooling. The island preserves a traditional way of life and rich nature.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: ▶10-minute boat ride via Biwako Kisen
Cats of Okishima Island
Okishima Island in Lake Biwa was once known as “Cat Island” due to its many cats, but in recent years, the number of cats has significantly decreased. The island’s residents are not sure why the cat population increased and then suddenly declined.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: ▶10-minute boat ride via Biwako Kisen
Shirahige Shrine
This shrine is known for its striking red torii gate standing on the water’s surface. With a history of over 2,000 years, the shrine is beloved for granting various wishes, including longevity, matchmaking, good luck, academic success, traffic safety, and safe voyages.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: All seasons
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information:Limited public transportation; car needed
Lake Biwa Great Fireworks Festival
On August 8, 2023, the Lake Biwa Great Fireworks Festival, a summer tradition, will be held for the first time in four years. Previously, this popular event attracted about 350,000 visitors. Enjoy around 10,000 fireworks over 60 minutes from the shores of Lake Biwa near Otsu Port and Nagisa Park.
Instagram Worthiness:★★★★★
Photography Opportunity: 8/8
Location Information: ▶Map, Hours, Routes
Transportation Information: 13-minute walk from Otsu Station
