Ukimi-do, Kyoto Travel Guide

Free Guide: Experience the serene beauty of Ukimi-do Temple, a floating Buddhist sanctuary on Lake Biwa, where history and tranquility meet.

A brief summary of Ukimi-do

Experience the serene beauty of Ukimi-do Temple, a floating Buddhist sanctuary on Lake Biwa, where history and tranquility meet.

Nestled on the shores of Lake Biwa, Ukimi-do Temple is a serene Buddhist sanctuary that offers breathtaking views and a rich cultural experience for visitors. A must-see for any traveler to Otsu.

4.2 Very good · 1,706 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • Every day8 am–5 pm

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
1 Chome-16-18 Honkatata, Otsu, Shiga 520-0242
Phone
Website

Getting there

Train

From Kyoto Station, take the JR Biwako Line (also known as the JR Kosei Line) towards Otsu. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Get off at Otsu Station. Once you arrive at Otsu Station, take the East Exit.

Bus

From Otsu Station East Exit, walk to the bus stop located just outside the station. Take the Biwako Bus (琵琶湖バス) bound for 'Honkatata'. The bus ride will take about 10 minutes. Get off at the 'Honkatata' stop. Ukimi-do is a short walk from the bus stop.

Walking

After getting off the bus at 'Honkatata', walk towards the lake. Ukimi-do is located at 1 Chome-16-18 Honkatata. You will see a sign leading to the temple. Follow the path to reach the entrance.

Discover more about Ukimi-do

Overview

Ukimi-do Temple, an exquisite Buddhist temple located on the picturesque shores of Lake Biwa in Otsu, Shiga, embodies serenity and spiritual beauty. This tranquil sanctuary, known as the "Floating Temple," is a historical gem that has captured the hearts of both locals and tourists. With its stunning wooden architecture and scenic surroundings, it offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The temple's unique design, set against the shimmering waters of Lake Biwa, creates a captivating atmosphere that is particularly enchanting during sunrise and sunset. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, which are adorned with beautiful gardens and offer ample opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture the mesmerizing reflections on the lake.As a place of worship, Ukimi-do Temple is not only a tourist attraction but also a functioning Buddhist temple that welcomes visitors for meditation and reflection. Engaging with the spiritual practices of the temple can provide a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and Buddhism. The serene environment encourages contemplation, making it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility or a moment of peace. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore, where the natural beauty complements the temple's serene ambiance.For those planning a visit, it's worth noting that the temple is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, allowing ample time to soak in its beauty. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply in search of a quiet retreat, Ukimi-do Temple is a must-visit destination that promises a fulfilling experience amidst stunning vistas and spiritual richness.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Explore Ukimi-do on the map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Ukimi-do, mapped for you.

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Ukimi-do, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from opening hours and how to get there to Eve’s tips and the best time to go, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Unlock the best of Ukimi-do

Skip-the-line tickets, guided tours with entry, and walking tours of the area, booked in a few clicks.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

More to explore near Ukimi-do

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery.

Activate your presence Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Explore more

Kyoto
More of the city

Explore more of Kyoto

Discover Kyoto: A Journey Through Japan's Ancient Heart, Where Cultural Riches and Natural Beauty Await at Every Turn.

Explore Kyoto
Japan
More of the country

Explore more of Japan

Discover the harmony of tradition and modernity in Japan, where ancient temples and cutting-edge technology coexist in perfect balance.

Explore Japan
The Evendo app on two phones

Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Kyoto

Discover Kyoto like never before with Evendo, the 100% free app-based travel guide covering attractions, landmarks, shops, restaurants, hotels, tours, and much more.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, and experiences
  • Rich content including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Planning a trip to Kyoto? Evendo is your all-in-one travel guide app, offering detailed information and booking options for attractions, landmarks, shops, and more—completely free.

  • 'Near me' feature to easily discover nearby attractions
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience
  • Historical overview and travel essentials for Kyoto
  • 100% free with no additional costs
  • Global coverage of 7,000+ destinations

Planning a trip to Kyoto has never been easier with Evendo, your ultimate travel companion. From the historic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) to the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Evendo covers all the must-see attractions and hidden gems. Looking for the best sushi? Evendo lists top-rated restaurants like Sushi no Musashi and gives you insider tips to eat like a local. The app also includes detailed information on shops, bars, nightclubs, and hotels, ensuring you have everything you need for a memorable trip.

Evendo goes beyond just listing places; it provides rich content including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details. You can easily book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly from the app. Whether you're planning to visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine or take a guided tour of Gion, the app makes it simple to organize your itinerary. Plus, features like 'Near me' and curated local tips ensure you never miss out on what’s around you.

The app also offers a historical overview of Kyoto and essential travel tips to help you navigate the city with ease. With easy navigation and a user-friendly interface, Evendo is designed to make your travel experience as smooth as possible. And the best part? It’s 100% free with no in-app purchases or hidden costs. Download Evendo now and discover Kyoto like never before.

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.