Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Biwako Valley is a leisure facility located on a mountain in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, and is known as a spectacular spot offering a panoramic view of Lake Biwa. You can access the high-altitude observation area by using the Biwako Valley Ropeway, which connects the base of the mountain to the summit. Its greatest attraction is the 360-degree panoramic view of Lake Biwa at its center. From spring to autumn, it is a year-round mountain leisure facility where you can enjoy hiking, terrace cafes, and outdoor activities such as paragliding and mountain biking, and in winter skiing and snow activities.
Highlights
- Biwako Terrace (observation deck): A cafe and observation space overlooking Lake Biwa. On clear days, the distant mountains and the sparkling lake surface are beautiful, making it a very popular photo spot. The light changes its appearance between morning and evening.
- Ropeway scenery: As you travel from the base to the summit, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Lake Biwa and the surrounding mountains. The scenery changes with the seasons, making it a fascinating sight.
- hiking trailsThere are several courses for beginners to intermediate hikers, and you can visit observation points overlooking flowers, autumn leaves, and Lake Biwa.
- Winter Activities: In winter, ski and snowboard courses and a sledding area are open. There are also programs for families and beginners (depending on snow conditions).
- Activity Experience: It is popular with outdoor enthusiasts, as it hosts tandem paragliding experiences, mountain biking, and seasonal events.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- public transport:From the nearest major station (e.g. JR Otsu Station, JR Kyoto Station, etc.), you can access the ropeway station at the base of the mountain by local bus, special shuttle bus, or taxi. Routes and service numbers vary depending on the season and day of the week, so be sure to check the official website or timetable in advance.
- car:Take the Meishin Expressway or Kosai Road through Otsu City and use the parking lot (fees apply) at the foot of the mountain. Parking lots can get crowded on weekends and during peak tourist seasons, so we recommend leaving early.
- Ropeway:It takes about 5 to 10 minutes (depending on ropeway operating hours) from the ropeway station at the foot of the mountain to reach the summit area. Ropeway operation is subject to weather, so please check in advance for cancellation information.
(Note) Specific bus times and stops, parking space availability and fees, and availability of special shuttle services may change. Please be sure to check the latest information on the official website or with the local facility before visiting.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Enjoy the view from Lake Biwa Terrace: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Includes hiking and activities (short trails and experiences): Half day (3-4 hours)
- Ski/snow season or serious play: 1 day (5-8 hours)
Nearby spots
- Lake Biwa (lakeside walks, boat cruises, lakeside parks)
- Enryaku-ji Temple (Mount Hiei) — Historic temple complex accessible via the Mount Hiei Driveway
- Lake Biwa Museum (Kusatsu City) — A museum where you can learn about the nature and culture of Lake Biwa
- Omihachiman (Hachimanbori and old townscape) — Tourist destinations within driving distance
- Otsu City (Ishiyama-dera Temple, Nagisa Park, etc.)
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion:It gets especially crowded on weekends, national holidays, Golden Week, summer vacation, and during the autumn foliage season. There may be waiting times at popular spots in Biwako Terrace, so it's best to visit early in the morning or on a weekday.
- Weather/Clothing:The wind is stronger and the temperature is lower on the mountain than on the plains. Be sure to take precautions against the cold, especially in spring, autumn, and winter, and bring a jacket in the morning and evening even in summer. Be aware of sudden changes in the weather.
- Operation information:The ropeway may be closed during strong winds or bad weather. Ski resort operations and activities are also dependent on snowfall and weather conditions, so be sure to check official information.
- Manners:To preserve the scenery, please be sure to take your trash with you or dispose of it in designated areas, and be considerate of the natural environment and other visitors (avoid loud conversations and entering restricted areas). Drone flying may be restricted or prohibited, so please check in advance.
- safety:When hiking or engaging in mountain activities, be sure to bring sufficient equipment (comfortable shoes, water, a hat, a first aid kit, etc.) and avoid strenuous activities. In winter, the ground can be slippery, so be sure to take precautions such as installing safety gear and chains on your car.
Finally, facility opening hours, fees, and activity reservations and operation status may change depending on the season and weather. For the latest information and detailed access information, be sure to check the official Biwako Valley website or local guides before heading out.
