Explore the charm and hidden treasures of Lake Biwa through tailored tours with Tours To Go. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or revisiting the city, we create unforgettable experiences with customizable itineraries. Reserve your Japan tours today for an insider’s perspective on the top sights and attractions!
Shiga: Miho Museum, Lake Biwa & Waterbird Shrine Day Trip
Begin your journey with a visit to the Miho Museum, a stunning architectural masterpiece by renowned architect I.M. Pei, inspired by the "Tale of the Peach Blossom Spring." Tucked away in the mountains, the museum offers a peaceful retreat from city life, with lush forests in summer and snow-covered landscapes in winter.
If the museum is closed, explore Hachimanbori, a historic canal district in Hikone City, known for its traditional Japanese architecture and serene boat rides along the canal. In the afternoon, visit Kyu-Chikurin-in, a peaceful former hermitage for monks, famous for its moss-covered garden and mirror-like reflections, providing beautiful photo opportunities.
End your day at Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake and a national park. Visit the ancient Shirahige Shrine, known for its iconic torii gate standing in the water, with the ever-changing beauty of the lake as its backdrop.
Duration: 9 to 10 hours.
If the museum is closed, explore Hachimanbori, a historic canal district in Hikone City, known for its traditional Japanese architecture and serene boat rides along the canal. In the afternoon, visit Kyu-Chikurin-in, a peaceful former hermitage for monks, famous for its moss-covered garden and mirror-like reflections, providing beautiful photo opportunities.
End your day at Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake and a national park. Visit the ancient Shirahige Shrine, known for its iconic torii gate standing in the water, with the ever-changing beauty of the lake as its backdrop.
Duration: 9 to 10 hours.
Sailing Experience in the biggest lake in Japan with BBQ Option
Lake Biwa, or Biwako, is Japan’s biggest lake closely located at just about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from Kyoto. It is recognized as one of the most ancient lakes in the world, and the only lake of its kind in Japan. Biwako has been designated as a UNESCO Ramsar Wetland since 1993 boasting a rich ecosystem with approximately 1,000 different species of plant and animal life. Our sailing experience takes place in the splendor of such a magnificent atmosphere. This activity is conducted with our company-owned 30ft private sailboat. All amidst a pleasant breeze experienced most of the year by cruising over the mirror-like calm water as you hear the gentle sound of wind and birdsong. The sailing adventure is a refreshingly promising choice for breaking away from the hustle and bustle of the city center in Kyoto. The activity starts at 2PM with two options such as 3 hour cruising with or without BBQ after sailing (the options with BBQ consists of 3-hour sailing and 2-hour BBQ, TTL 5 hours).
Duration: 3 to 5 hours.
Duration: 3 to 5 hours.
Handmade Fireworks and Sunset Dinner Cruise on Lake Biwa
Discover the beauty of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest and oldest lake, with a history stretching back over 4 million years. This serene lake has long been a place where nature and human life coexist in harmony, giving rise to a unique “water culture” that thrives here.
Your journey begins in Nagahama City, at the northern edge of Lake Biwa. You’ll start by visiting the Kakinoki Fireworks Industry to learn the art of crafting traditional Japanese fireworks by hand. Afterward, you’ll explore the city on foot and experience the elegance of wearing a traditional Kimono.
As evening approaches, you’ll board a Yakatabune boat for a sunset cruise on Lake Biwa, where you’ll savor an Italian dinner, thoughtfully crafted around the theme of “fireworks.” The day concludes with a spectacular display as the fireworks you created burst into the night sky, marking the perfect end to a truly memorable tour. We hope you enjoy the traditional Japanese fireworks and the stunning scenery of Lake Biwa.
Duration: 11 to 12 hours.
Your journey begins in Nagahama City, at the northern edge of Lake Biwa. You’ll start by visiting the Kakinoki Fireworks Industry to learn the art of crafting traditional Japanese fireworks by hand. Afterward, you’ll explore the city on foot and experience the elegance of wearing a traditional Kimono.
As evening approaches, you’ll board a Yakatabune boat for a sunset cruise on Lake Biwa, where you’ll savor an Italian dinner, thoughtfully crafted around the theme of “fireworks.” The day concludes with a spectacular display as the fireworks you created burst into the night sky, marking the perfect end to a truly memorable tour. We hope you enjoy the traditional Japanese fireworks and the stunning scenery of Lake Biwa.
Duration: 11 to 12 hours.
Shirahige Shrine Kayak Tour
You can kayak on the largest lake in Japan, Lake Biwa. A kayak guide will accompany you, so you can enjoy it even for the first time. The destination is Torii on Lake Biwa. It is the property of the oldest shrine in Lake Biwa. Experience good memories at GOODTIMES TOURS!
Duration: 2 hours.
Duration: 2 hours.
Private 3 Hours Waterfalls Sightseeing Tour
The two waterfalls we visit are spectacular. The first, Hira Falls, is just a quarter mile (400 meter) hike from the car park. From there we hike to the even more dramatic Yobai Falls, feeling the splash of cool water. The round trip hike is only one mile (1.5 km) but the trail is rocky and steep, so a reasonable degree of fitness of required. From there we go to the shore of Lake Biwa where we ride kayaks, swim, or hang out on the beach. This tour is perfect for travelers who want to escape the crowds and heat of Kyoto and Osaka and enjoy nature.
Duration: 3 hours.
Duration: 3 hours.
