Li-Ka1920 | Review by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人

From Kyoto, you can take a train to Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake. Without researching it beforehand, it's hard to grasp just how vast it is. It looks like an inland sea, with sunlight sparkling on the water. In early spring, the tranquil lake is captivating, making it an excellent place to slow down and escape the crowds of central Kyoto.

Stunning scenery is everywhere: first, visit the Shirahige Shrine torii gate standing in the lake and take in its sacred atmosphere; then head to Ukimido, one of the Eight Views of Omi, to enjoy the Zen-like view of the historic Buddhist hall blending with the water and sky. To take in the entire lake, I recommend riding the ropeway up to the Biwako Valley observation deck. Lake Biwa's serene, profound natural beauty has a deeply soothing effect on the mind and body, and it's definitely worth a special trip!

Located near Lake Biwa and listed as one of the Eight Views of Omi, Mangetsuji Temple's Ukimido is an ancient lakeside Buddhist hall steeped in poetry.

On the way from the parking area to Ukimido, you pass through narrow lanes that retain the atmosphere of an Edo-period port town. The rustic houses, low wooden walls, and occasional breeze are so peaceful and enchanting that they seem to wash away Kyoto's hustle and bustle before you even arrive.

Emerging from the lanes, a stone bridge draws your gaze out across the vast expanse of Lake Biwa. When you finally see the Buddhist hall seemingly floating on the water, its solemn presence is visually stunning. Take off your shoes and step onto the corridor extending over the lake, where the water and sky blend into one. This is the perfect place to slow down, feel the gentle lake breeze, quietly gaze across the water, and immerse yourself in a peaceful moment unique to Japan.

Shirahige Shrine, located on the shore of Lake Biwa, has a long history. Though small and simple, it offers breathtakingly beautiful scenery. The most captivating sight is the vermilion torii gate standing in the lake. With the waves around it, it seems to float on the water, often creating the dreamlike illusion of being at Itsukushima Shrine, one of Japan's Three Scenic Views.

For the best view of this torii gate on the water, the ideal photo spot is the observation deck inside the shrine grounds. From this elevated position, you get an expansive view that captures the depth of the lake and sky blending together while also keeping you safe.

A national highway with fast-moving traffic separates the shrine from the torii gate, and there is no pedestrian crossing at all. For your own safety and that of drivers, please don't be an irresponsible traveler and risk crossing the road to the lakeshore on the other side. The best way to experience this sacred tranquility is to quietly pray in the lake breeze from the observation deck and gaze at the torii gate in the distance.