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Okishima Island
Japan’s one and only inhabited island on a lake.
Just off the eastern side of Lake Biwa, a small island sits out on the water. It’s the largest island in the lake, and also Japan’s only inhabited island on a lake.
According to island tradition, it is said that defeated Genji warriors from the Hogen and Heiji disturbances (1156–1159) washed ashore on Okishima and settled here. Even today, Approx. 200 people live on this remote island, which covers Approx. 1.53 sq km and has a perimeter of Approx. 6.8 km.
The only way to get to the island is by boat. On weekdays, 12 services run per day and are used for commuting to school and work, as well as regular crossings.
The views from the island are beautiful, too. From the summit plazas in the island’s mountains, you can take in scenery unique to an island floating on Lake Biwa. Most facilities, restaurants, and shops are concentrated on the eastern side facing the opposite shore of Omihachiman City, making it easy to explore on foot along the road. After enjoying a stroll to sights like the “Okishima Observation Deck” and Benzaiten with its red torii gate, stop by a restaurant, cafe, or souvenir shop.
There are also accommodations such as private lodgings, so it’s a great idea to stay overnight and take your time enjoying a full day on Okishima.
Highlights
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A small island floating just off the eastern side of Lake Biwa.
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Japan’s only inhabited island on a lake—still home to Approx. 200 residents.
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Lake Biwa views you only get from an island out on the water.
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Most facilities, restaurants, and shops are on the eastern side, facing the opposite shore of Omihachiman City.
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Overnight options too, including private lodgings.
Photos
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Traditional know-how for everyday life and abundant nature still remain today
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Okishima Observation Deck, with views toward Omihachiman City
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The red torii gate visible from the Okishima ferry on the way to the island
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Okishima Museum, opened in 2023
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A spectacular viewpoint with panoramic views of majestic Lake Biwa and the mountain range on the west side of the lake. Open cafe Sazanami, a shop serving soft-serve ice cream and drinks, opened in spring 2024
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There are also shops such as “Mizunosei,” which sells original products
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
A
English map available.
Q
Is there any free Wi-Fi available in the area?
A
Yes-Biwako free wifi is available near the community center.
Q
Are there coin lockers?
A
No.
Q
Are there smoking areas?
A
Yes-next to the restroom at Okishima Port.
Q
Can I bring my pet?
A
Dogs must be kept in a carrier cage, etc.
Q
Are there information signs?
A
Information maps are available at the fisheries cooperative and the community center.
Q
Are there any places to eat?
A
Please make reservations for restaurants on the island.
Q
Can I have a barbecue?
A
There are no barbecue facilities.
Q
Anything else I should know?
A
Please be quiet at night when walking around the densely populated village area, as fishing operations take place late at night.
For access information, please see the website.
*If you come by car, please park in the visitor parking lot.
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 沖島
- Postal Code
- 523-0801
- Address
- Okishima-cho, Omihachiman City, Shiga
- Phone
- 0748-33-9779 (Okishima-cho Remote Island Promotion Council)
- Closed on
- Open daily
- Hours
- Open for walking around at any time
- Admission
- Ferry: 500 yen one way; Parking: 300 yen
- Access
- Approx. 10 minutes by boat from Okishima Ferry “Horikiri Port”
- Official website
- Official website
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