If you visit Lake Biwa, I highly recommend taking a boat across the lake and stopping at Chikubu Island. There are three ports offering round-trip island tours, or you can choose a route that crosses Lake Biwa. If your schedule allows, choose the latter. Take a boat from Imazu Port on the west side of Lake Biwa to Chikubu Island, then continue to Nagahama Port on the east side. During the crossing, you can enjoy the tranquil beauty of Lake Biwa. Of course, Chikubu Island has Tsukubusuma Shrine. Remember to try throwing a round ceramic tile through the torii gate, and your wish will come true. Finally, stop by the port for an Omi beef bun. Visiting Chikubu Island takes about 1–1.5 hours. Make sure to keep track of the boat departure time. After returning to Nagahama Port, you can also visit Kurokabe Market if you have time.
Chikubu Island | Review by hdwf2002
Other Reviews by hdwf2002
-
Harunire Terrace
This is a “small town” with nine buildings connected with wide wooden decks, utilizing a grove of more than 100 Japanese elm trees alongside the clear stream.
Harunire Terrace in Naka-Karuizawa is built along a stream, with wooden buildings, boardwalks, and forest cabins. The outdoor decks have free tables and chairs, while the small shopping area sells various goods and food. It’s a great place to visit in the afternoon and is very chill. I highly recommend the rich and delicious ice cream from Nagai Farm. A day trip by bicycle is also a great option—ride over from Karuizawa Station and enjoy a different way of exploring.
-
-
Ishiyamadera Temple
This is the head temple of the Shingon school on the bank of the Seta River, which flows from Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan. There are strange rocks erected all over the precincts, including the large rock towering in front of the Hondo (main shrine).
When traveling around Lake Biwa by JR, you'll pass JR Ishiyamadera Station, so consider visiting Ishiyamadera Temple. It's a 10-minute drive from the station. This is a famous fall foliage spot in the Kansai region and where The Tale of Genji was first written. Coming here feels like stepping into another world. Surrounded by tranquility and maple trees, it's very relaxing to stroll through the temple grounds. If you visit in mid-November, the red maple leaves and fallen foliage offer another kind of peaceful experience. You don't have to worry about crowds, and it's a good place to relax your body, mind, and spirit.
-
-
St. Paul's Catholic Church in Karuizawa
Nestled along “Waterwheel Lane,” just a short step off the main Old Karuizawa Ginza Street, this is the only Catholic church in Karuizawa.
Old Karuizawa Ginza Street has a retro feel. Besides visiting this old street, travelers can walk a little farther to St. Paul's Catholic Church. I understand it was built in 1935 and combines European architecture with stonework design. If you're lucky, you can go inside. The interior is entirely solid wood, and you can really feel its historic character. It's truly worth the walk to visit.
-
