Lake Biwa Canal: A Meiji Era Engineering Marvel
Discover a feat of Meiji-era engineering: a historic canal connecting Lake Biwa and Kyoto, offering scenic cruises and cultural insights.
The Lake Biwa Canal is a historic waterway connecting Lake Biwa and Kyoto, constructed during the Meiji period. It provided water for drinking, irrigation, industry, and hydroelectric power, and even facilitated transportation. Today, it's a scenic spot with cherry trees lining the canal and opportunities for boat tours.
A brief summary to Lake Biwa Canal
- 7 Miideracho, Otsu, Miideracho, Shiga, 520-0034, JP
- +8177-522-3830
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during spring to witness the stunning cherry blossoms lining the canal.
- Take a boat cruise to experience the canal from a unique perspective and see historical features.
- Explore the Keage Incline, a preserved section of the canal that showcases its engineering.
- Visit the Lake Biwa Canal Museum to learn about the history and functions of the canal.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Kosei Line to Otsu Station. From Otsu Station, transfer to the Keihan Ishiyama Sakamoto Line and get off at Miidera Station. The Lake Biwa Canal is a short walk from the station. The train journey from Kyoto to Otsu takes approximately 20 minutes and costs ¥410. The walk from Miidera Station to the canal is about 4 minutes.
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Walking
From Miidera Temple, walk towards the Kannon-do gate. The canal runs alongside Miidera Temple. Follow the path along the canal to explore the area. Note that there are limited parking options around the canal, so using public transport is recommended.
Discover more about Lake Biwa Canal
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nanzen-ji Temple
5.7 km
Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Nanzen-ji Temple, a stunning Buddhist sanctuary nestled in the heart of Kyoto's natural landscape.
Eikan-dō Temple
5.7 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Eikan-dō Temple, a must-visit Buddhist sanctuary in Kyoto, Japan, surrounded by stunning gardens.
Heian Shrine
6.8 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and cultural richness of Heian Shrine in Kyoto, a must-visit Shinto shrine surrounded by stunning gardens.
Heian-jingū Shrine
6.8 km
Discover the beauty and serenity of Heian-jingū Shrine, a stunning Shinto shrine in Kyoto renowned for its breathtaking architecture and tranquil gardens.
Heian Jingu
6.8 km
Step back in time at Heian Jingu Shrine, a vibrant tribute to Kyoto's imperial past and the elegance of the Heian period.
Chion-in Temple
6.9 km
Experience the tranquility of Chion-in Temple, Kyoto's iconic Buddhist sanctuary, where history and spirituality intertwine amidst stunning architecture and serene gardens.
Kiyomizu-dera
6.9 km
Experience the serene beauty and spiritual essence of Kiyomizu-dera, an iconic Buddhist temple in Kyoto, renowned for its stunning architecture and breathtaking views.
Shugakuin Imperial Villa
7.0 km
Experience the captivating beauty and rich history of Shugakuin Imperial Villa, a serene gem in Kyoto's lush landscapes.
ROHM Theatre Kyoto
7.0 km
Kyoto's premier performing arts venue, blending modern design with a rich history of cultural events and community engagement.
Kiyomizu-dera Niomon Gate
7.0 km
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Kōdai-ji Temple
7.0 km
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Maruyama Park
7.1 km
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Ninenzaka
7.1 km
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Matsubara Street
7.1 km
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Sannenzaka
7.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Otsu Festival Hikiyama Exhibition Hall
0.7 km
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Biwako Flower Fountain
0.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Biwako Flower Fountain in Otsu – a must-visit tourist attraction with vibrant floral displays and breathtaking lake views.
Hama-Otsu Nagisa Park
1.0 km
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Omi Jingu
2.3 km
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Mount Daimonji
4.2 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene landscapes of Mount Daimonji, a must-visit hiking gem in Kyoto, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Yumemigaoka Observation Deck
4.7 km
Experience breathtaking views of Lake Biwa from Yumemigaoka Observation Deck, a serene escape in the heart of Shiga Prefecture, Japan.
Hōnenin Temple
5.6 km
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Higashiyama Jisho-ji
5.6 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Higashiyama Jisho-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, known for its stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.
Kōun-ji Temple
5.7 km
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Nanzen-ji
5.7 km
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Eikandō Temple
5.7 km
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Eikandō Temple, a must-visit Buddhist site in Kyoto renowned for its stunning gardens and rich cultural heritage.
Philosopher's Path
5.9 km
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Tenjuan Temple
5.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Tenjuan Temple in Kyoto, a hidden gem of tranquility and traditional Japanese culture.
Konchi-in
6.1 km
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Keage Incline
6.3 km
Discover Keage Incline in Kyoto, a historic pathway adorned with cherry blossoms, perfect for leisurely walks and rich in cultural significance.
Essential places to dine
Japanese Cuisine OHMI
1.0 km
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近江牛ダイニングOKAKI
1.1 km
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Otsu Highway Restaurant
2.0 km
Experience delightful Japanese and Western cuisine at Otsu Highway Restaurant while enjoying scenic views along Otsu Highway.
Yamasaki
5.7 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Yamasaki in Otsu - where tradition meets flavor.
Monk
5.7 km
Discover Monk: A top-rated pizza restaurant in Kyoto blending Italian tradition with local flavors for an unforgettable dining experience.
Kakyo
6.6 km
Experience the finest kaiseki cuisine at Kakyo in Kyoto - where tradition meets innovation in every exquisite dish.
Nananoichi
6.7 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine with a touch of Kyoto's finest flavors at Nananoichi.
Tan
7.0 km
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LURRA°
7.0 km
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Cenci
7.1 km
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Kōdaiji Jūgyūan
7.1 km
Experience exquisite Japanese fine dining at Kōdaiji Jūgyūan in Kyoto, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Otowa Saryo
7.1 km
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Arash's Kitchen
7.2 km
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THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO|Restaurant
7.2 km
Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto, where tradition meets modern elegance in every dish.
Kyoto Tsuburano
7.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
ブランド買取専門店 BRAND OFF 大津テラス店
2.2 km
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Friend Mart
2.2 km
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Oh! Me Ōtsu Terrace
2.2 km
Discover Oh! Me Ōtsu Terrace, a bustling shopping haven in Otsu, Japan, offering a unique blend of fashion, dining, and entertainment.
Omi beef Specialty Store Kawanishi
5.4 km
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Kyoto Handicraft Center
7.1 km
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Studio Ghibli shop
7.1 km
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Ghibli Studios Shop Kyoto
7.2 km
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Hashiya Kaede
7.3 km
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Kyo Sakura
7.3 km
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Ki-Yan Stuzio Gion Ishidan-shita Shop
7.4 km
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fine antique
7.4 km
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Ayanokoji Gion
7.4 km
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HAURA Kyoto japan
7.4 km
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Kurochiku
7.5 km
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Statue kyoto
7.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
CRAFT倶楽部京都
7.4 km
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Bingo
7.4 km
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Talisker
7.4 km
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Gion SAMBOA
7.4 km
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Bar鳴子
7.5 km
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Man in the Moon Gion
7.5 km
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bar mousse
7.5 km
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feel京good
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Lounge & Bar 1867 (ダーワ・悠洛 京都 by バンヤン・グループ)
7.6 km
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Gion Finlandia Bar
7.6 km
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Le Peu
7.6 km
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The Common One Bar Kyoto
7.7 km
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ROCK BAR CRUNCH
7.7 km
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Pig & Whistle
7.7 km
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Bar Liquor Museum
7.7 km
Explore the rich history and artistry of Japanese spirits at the Bar Liquor Museum in Kyoto, a unique destination for enthusiasts and curious travelers.