Just north of Kyoto is the stunning body of water known as Lake Biwa or “Biwako” in Shiga Prefecture, home to beautiful beaches and resorts.
Lake Biwa, commonly known as Biwako in Japanese, is the largest body of water in the Kansai region. Located on the intersection of Shiga and Kyoto prefectures, it’s home to the stunning Omi-Maiko beach, where people from all over the world gather to swim in the freshwaters!
Given the inland nature of the Kansai region away from the coastlines, I was surprised that the Omi-Maiko beach existed. It turns out what defines a beach isn’t necessarily the salt water of the ocean, but simply the point at which a large body of water meets the land, and that’s precisely what we see here at this scenic lake, which I can’t help but feel “Okinawa vibes”!
Buzzing Vibe!
Speaking of the vibe, I was completely blown away by the change in atmosphere at Lake Biwa from the typical sounds and sights one experiences in Japan. Countless people with tents, shelters, and picnic chairs set up completely flooded the shores of Omi-Maiko beach, rejoicing in fun times with family and friends and gathering around barbecue pits.
What was more surprising, still, was the level of diversity among the people here. It was like an international fiesta with people from all over the globe gathered in one area, speaking in many different tongues. Of course, the Japanese still remain as a major demographic, and the food stalls were typically run by Japanese too, but it was certainly the type of vibe I’m more accustomed to seeing in a multicultural nation like Australia.
Swimming In Freshwaters
The water may not be salty, and the shore may not be sandy (rocky, rather), but Omi-Maiko beach still had a very beachy vibe nonetheless. Going in for a dip was one of the most relieving activities I did to combat the brutal heat and humidity of the Japanese summer.
It was also nice to swim without getting dry eyes and sandy hair as typical from standard saltwater beaches. No, this swim was as refreshing as they come, and combined with the beautiful scenery of the sloping mountains surrounding the lake, it was an experience that relaxed all the senses.
Unbelievable Scenery & Serenity
On the other side of the crowded Omi-Maiko beach is a section of Lake Biwa that offers a totally different vibe.
Here, the waters are calm and the mountains are in close range. With no shore in sight, swimming is not allowed here, though fishing and row boating is permitted.
The view of the sun peaking behind the mountains is one I will never forget. Perhaps the closest picture-perfect shot I’ve witnessed since my visit to Mt. Fuji’s Lake Kawaguchi back in 2018.
A Trip To Remember
So, if you’re looking for the beach experience in a landlocked prefecture like Kyoto, then head up to the stunning Lake Biwa’s Omi-Maiko beach for a trip that harmoniously combines energetic crowds with peaceful solitude.
To learn more about life in Japan, check out my book: The Japanese Pursuit of Perfection. This book features my most profound observations of Japanese culture and society as a foreign resident. Available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover. Grab your copy today!