TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Lake Biwa Canal was a large-scale civil engineering project built during the Meiji period to channel water from Lake Biwa towards Kyoto. Established in the late Meiji period (construction began in 1885 and completed in 1890), the canal was used for daily life, fire prevention, irrigation, as well as for shipping and hydroelectric power generation. The canal contains many modern civil engineering heritages, such as stonework and brick structures, tunnels, and locks, and is attractive for its harmony between historical scenery and the natural scenery of the four seasons. On the Otsu city side, you can see the beginning of the channel heading towards Kyoto from the shore of Lake Biwa near the intake.
Highlights
- View of the intake and waterway: You can see where water is taken in from Lake Biwa and the beginning of the waterway. The contrast between the lake and the man-made structure is beautiful.
- Civil engineering heritage (stonework and brickwork): You can observe the technology and designs of the time while strolling around, including stone walls, brick tunnels, and locks that retain Meiji-era technology.
- Four Seasons Landscape: The lake has different appearances with each season, with cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, and autumn leaves in autumn. There are many photo spots along with the lakeside scenery.
- Canal Memorial Museum and Exhibition (certain section)There is a facility that introduces the history and workings of the canal, and you can deepen your understanding through historical explanations and models (please check the opening hours for the facility).
- Walking trails, strolls and cycling: You can walk along the canal along the well-maintained footpaths and promenades, perfect for a quiet stroll along the water.
- Canal boat tour (operating for a limited period): Depending on the section and season, sightseeing boats and canal boats are in operation, and the canal scenery seen from a boat is exceptional. Be sure to check the operation information in advance.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train + walking:
- Accessible by bus or on foot (depending on the section) from Otsu Station on the JR Biwako Line (Tokaido Main Line). From Kyoto, it's a few stops from JR Kyoto Station, and takes about 5-10 minutes.
- The nearest stations to each section of the canal vary, such as "Zose," "Keihan Ishiyama Sakamoto Line - near Ishiyama-dera Temple," and "Seta." Please check the nearest station depending on the area you wish to visit.
- bus: You can access bus stops along the canal and nearby tourist spots by bus within Otsu City. Please check the tourist information center or route map to find the nearest bus stop to your destination.
- car: Head into the city from the Otsu IC on the Meishin Expressway. Depending on the location, you may need to use paid municipal parking lots or facility parking lots.
- Note: Access to the canal varies depending on the location within Otsu City. If there is a particular structure or walking route you would like to see, we recommend checking the location and nearest station/bus stop in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Just stop by and take photos: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- A leisurely stroll and tour (visiting the museum and multiple ruins): 1-2 hours
- Combining sightseeing with canal boat rides and other nearby attractions: Half a day to a full day
Nearby spots
- Nagisa Park/Otsu Port: Enjoy a stroll along the shores of Lake Biwa.
- Omi Shrine: A historic shrine, many people visit it as part of a tour of the canal.
- Mii-dera (Onjo-ji): A representative ancient temple in Otsu, you can explore its history while touring the canal.
- Ishiyama-dera Temple (be careful of the distance): A famous spot that can be combined depending on your sightseeing route.
- Biwako Otsukan and the surrounding cafes and walking areas: Convenient for resting and eating.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: The park is especially popular during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, when walking trails and parking lots can become crowded. We recommend arriving early or using public transportation during peak times.
- Waterside Safety: There are steps and stones on the shore that can be slippery in places. Elderly people and those with small children should watch their step and not get too close in areas where there are no fences.
- MannersPlease take your trash with you and visit quietly. Please be considerate and not interfere with the living spaces of local residents or the walking paths.
- Seasonal clothing and insect protection: In summer, wear protective gear against the sun and mosquitoes, and in winter, wear protective gear against the cold wind. The stone roads can be slippery when it rains.
- Check available viewing areas: Access to some facilities and remains may be restricted for protection reasons. The Canal Memorial Museum and boat operations are open on limited days, so please check official information in advance.
(Additional Information) The atmosphere and sights of Lake Biwa Canal vary depending on the section within Otsu City. Before visiting, decide which section you want to see (the intake side, along the waterway, visiting the ruins, etc.), and then check the nearest station, bus times, and opening hours to efficiently tour the area.
