Biwako Ohashi Bridge

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Biwako Ohashi Bridge

A scenic road with sweeping views that brings out the beauty of Lake Biwa.

Last update :
Supervised by :  滋賀県道路公社

This connecting bridge, with a total length of Approx. 1.4 km, links Otsu City on the western shore of Shiga Prefecture with Moriyama City on the eastern shore. It crosses Lake Biwa at its narrowest point, helping shorten travel time between the east and west sides of the lake and supporting the growth of Lake Biwa tourism.

The middle section is higher than both ends so that boats can pass beneath the bridge girders, and the bridge’s gentle curve blends beautifully with the surrounding scenery, further enhancing the appeal of Lake Biwa. At the highest point of the curve, it rises as much as 26.3 meters above the lake surface. From here, you can enjoy an exhilarating drive while taking in an open panoramic view of the lake, which changes its appearance throughout the day, as well as the townscape on the opposite shore.

It is also known as the first bridge in Japan to feature a melody road. When you drive at 60 km/h or under, vibrations from the tires play the Song of a Tour Around Lake Biwa over a stretch of Approx. 600 m (installed only in the right lane toward Moriyama, and not installed in the lane toward Otsu).

Highlights

  • A connecting bridge with a total length of Approx. 1.4 km linking Otsu City on the western shore of Shiga Prefecture and Moriyama City on the eastern shore.
  • It helps shorten travel time between the east and west sides of Lake Biwa and supports the growth of Lake Biwa tourism.
  • Enjoy an exhilarating drive with sweeping views of Lake Biwa.

Photos

  • A connecting bridge with a total length of Approx. 1.4 km linking the east and west sides of Lake Biwa

    A connecting bridge with a total length of Approx. 1.4 km linking the east and west sides of Lake Biwa

  • Its gently curving shape blends beautifully with the surrounding scenery

    Its gently curving shape blends beautifully with the surrounding scenery

  • Enjoy an exhilarating drive

    Enjoy an exhilarating drive

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Is there free Wi-Fi available in the area?

A

No, there is not.

Q

Are there any sightseeing spots nearby?

A

Michi-no-Eki Biwako Ohashi Kome Plaza (3-1-1 Imakatata, Otsu City), Mangetsu-ji Ukimido (1-16-18 Honkatata, Otsu City), Sagawa Art Museum (2891 Kitagawa, Mizuhocho, Moriyama City), Lake Biwa Museum (1091 Oroshimocho, Kusatsu City), JA Lake Shiga Farmers Market Ouminchi Moriyama Store (2785 Sumotomachi, Moriyama City)

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Details

Name in Japanese
琵琶湖大橋
Address
Imakatata, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture–Imahamacho, Moriyama City, Shiga Prefecture
Phone
077-524-0141 (Shiga Prefecture Road Public Corporation)
Admission
Mini vehicles: 100 yen, standard vehicles: 150 yen, large vehicles: 200 yen, extra-large vehicles: 500 yen, mopeds, etc.: 10 yen, pedestrians and bicycles: free (ETC discounts and discounts for people with disabilities available)
Access
1) Right by the Koto Naishi-mae bus stop from JR Katata Station
2) 5 minutes by car from Mano IC on National Route 161 Kosai Road, 35 minutes by car from Ritto IC on the Meishin Expressway
Official website
Official website (Japanese)