Lake Biwa Cycling Tour: Japan’s Most Classic One-Day Cycling Route

Introduction

In the Japanese cycling world, “Biwaichi (ビワイチ)” is a word full of magic. It refers to the cycling challenge of circling Lake Biwa, covering approximately 200 kilometers in total, making it one of Japan’s most iconic long-distance cycling routes. Lake Biwa is located in Shiga Prefecture, just about fifteen minutes away from Kyoto by Shinkansen. Its long history, magnificent lake and mountain scenery, and the rich cultural attractions along the way make this route a classic pilgrimage for cycling enthusiasts from Japan and abroad.

In 2019, Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism officially designated Biwaichi as a “National Cycle Route,” placing it alongside the Shimanami Kaido and Tsukuba Kasumi as one of Japan’s three national cycling routes. This designation brought unified route signage, improved cycling paths, and upgraded facilities along the way, making the Biwaichi riding experience even more complete.

Route Basic Information

• Total Distance: Northern lake route approximately 150 km; full loop including the southern lake approximately 200 km
• Total Elevation Gain: Approximately 300-500 meters (flat terrain with only gentle slopes)
• Road Conditions: Over 90% is well-paved road, with dedicated cycling paths on some sections
• Recommended Duration: Fit riders can complete it in one day; generally, two days and one night is recommended
• Direction: The official recommendation is counterclockwise (riding with the lake on the left, offering better views)

Detailed Section Introduction

Starting Point: Otsu/Moriyama (Southern Shore)

Most riders choose to start from Otsu City or Moriyama City. Otsu is the capital of Shiga Prefecture and has convenient transportation; Moriyama has multiple bicycle rental shops and accommodation facilities designed specifically for Biwaichi riders.

Southern Lake Section: Moriyama → Otsu → Omi-Maiko (Approximately 40 km)

The southern lake is the narrower part of Lake Biwa, passing through Otsu’s urban area and the foot of Mount Hiei. This section includes more city roads with slightly heavier traffic, but also features a beautiful cycling path along the Seta River. Near Omi-Maiko, there is a beautiful white sand beach, and on clear days you can see the Hira mountain range across the lake.

West Shore Section: Omi-Maiko → Takashima → Kaizu Osaki (Approximately 50 km)

The west shore is one of the most scenic sections of Biwaichi. The road extends along the lakeshore, with the endless lake surface on the left and rolling mountains on the right. Near Takashima City, there are several metasequoia tree-lined avenues, especially stunning during the autumn foliage season. Kaizu Osaki is a famous cherry blossom spot in Japan; in spring, approximately 800 Somei Yoshino cherry trees bloom along the lakeshore, forming a four-kilometer pink tunnel.

North Shore Section: Kaizu Osaki → Nagahama (Approximately 40 km)

The north shore is the most secluded section of Lake Biwa, with sparse traffic, making it perfect for enjoying a peaceful ride. From here, you can gaze across to Chikubushima Island; on clear days, the lake surface is like a mirror, reflecting the distant mountains and blue sky. Nagahama is the largest city on the north shore, famous for the glass craftsmanship at Kurokabe Square, and is also a great spot for supplies and rest.

East Shore Section: Nagahama → Hikone → Omihachiman → Moriyama (Approximately 70 km)

The east shore passes through the most historically rich area of Shiga Prefecture. Hikone Castle is one of only twelve surviving castle keeps in Japan and is designated a National Treasure, well worth stopping to visit. Omihachiman is a well-preserved old merchant town; the white-walled earthen storehouses along the Hachiman-bori canal are full of charm. This section is relatively flat, allowing for a faster pace.

One-Day Completion Strategy

For riders challenging the one-day loop, the following strategies can help you finish successfully:

Time Planning

• Departure Time: 5:00-6:00 AM (earlier in summer)
• Target Completion Time: 8-12 hours (including rest)
• Average Speed: 20-25 km/h
• Rest Stops: Plan a supply stop every 30-40 km

Supply Point Planning

There are plenty of convenience stores and dining facilities along Lake Biwa, but the north shore section is more remote, so it is recommended to ensure adequate supplies before Nagahama.

Relaxed Two-Day, One-Night Version

If time permits, a two-day, one-night itinerary allows you to enjoy the scenery along the way more leisurely:

Day 1: Moriyama → Nagahama (approximately 100 km)

• Ride north along the west shore in the morning, stop for lunch in Takashima or Makino
• Arrive in Nagahama in the afternoon, visit Kurokabe Square and Nagahama Castle
• Stay at a hotel or guesthouse in Nagahama city

Day 2: Nagahama → Moriyama (approximately 100 km)

• Visit Hikone Castle in the morning and taste Omi beef
• Return to Moriyama via Omihachiman in the afternoon
• Enjoy the sunset by the lakeshore in the evening

Practical Travel Information

Transportation

• From Kyoto: JR Biwako Line from Kyoto to Otsu takes only 9 minutes; to Moriyama about 25 minutes
• From Osaka: JR Special Rapid Service to Otsu takes about 40 minutes; to Moriyama about 55 minutes
• Bringing Bikes on Trains: JR West allows bicycles on trains using a rinko bag, but you should avoid commuter rush hours

Bicycle Rental

To promote Biwaichi, Shiga Prefecture has set up multiple bicycle rental points near major stations:

• Giant Store Moriyama: Offers Giant and Liv brand bikes; road bikes cost approximately 5,000-8,000 yen per day
• Biwaichi Rental Cycle: Multiple locations, with cross-station return service available
• General rental shops: Prices around 3,000-6,000 yen/day; electric-assist bikes around 5,000-8,000 yen/day

Accommodation

There is a wide range of accommodation along the route, from hot spring inns to business hotels:

• Nagahama Area: Recommended: Nagahama Taiko Onsen; soaking in a hot spring after riding is the best way to recover
• Takashima Area: Several lakeside guesthouses where you can enjoy tranquil lake views
• Hikone Area: Many business hotels with affordable prices

Best Seasons

• Cherry Blossom Season (Early April): The lakeside cherry blossoms at Kaizu Osaki are a spectacular sight
• Fresh Green Season (May to June): Comfortable temperatures and lush greenery
• Autumn Foliage Season (November): The metasequoia avenues on the west shore turn golden
• Periods to Avoid: The rainy season (mid-June to mid-July) and midsummer (August, intense heat)

Budget Estimate (Two Days, One Night, Per Person)

Notes

1. Wind Direction: The Lake Biwa area often experiences strong northerly winds in winter; when riding counterclockwise, you may encounter strong headwinds on the north shore section.
2. Traffic Rules: In Japan, cyclists ride on the left side of the road, opposite to Taiwan, so extra caution is needed.
3. Etiquette: Cycling paths in Japan are often shared with pedestrians; please slow down and yield to pedestrians.
4. Trash Disposal: There are very few trash bins on Japanese streets; please carry your trash with you and dispose of it at convenience stores or your accommodation.

Conclusion

Biwaichi has earned its status as a Japan National Bicycle Route because it perfectly balances challenge with accessibility. The 200-kilometer distance is an achievable goal for most riders, while the rich history, culture, and natural scenery along the way elevate the journey far beyond a mere physical challenge. After cycling around Lake Biwa, you’ll take away not just the sense of accomplishment from completing the ride, but also lasting memories of Japanese tradition and natural beauty.

Related Reading

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• The Complete Guide to the Sun Moon Lake Cycling Path: Taiwan’s Most Beautiful Lakeside Ride
• Hsinchu’s Emei Lake Cycling Path: The Most Beautiful Lakeside Ride in Northern Taiwan