Vast still waters of Lake Biwa reflecting soft clouds at dusk with a lone boat on the horizon, capturing the lake's openness and quiet grandeur

LAKE BIWA:
Samurai
Heritage by
Lake Biwa

  • Small forested island rising from the calm surface of Lake Biwa, a sacred natural landmark at the heart of the region's spiritual identity

    Sacred Island

    Set within the still waters of Lake Biwa, Chikubu Island carries a quiet sense of reverence. Forest, shrine, and shoreline come together in a place shaped by ritual, nature, and time.

  • Paddleboarders gliding toward a red torii gate on the turquoise waters of Lake Biwa, blending active discovery with cultural wonder

    Lake Torii

    Rising directly from the water, the torii gate at Shirahige Shrine creates a striking point of balance between landscape and belief. Seen from the lake, it feels both grounded and quietly transcendent.

  • Castle framed by cherry blossoms in full bloom, one of Japan's most celebrated historic landmarks on the shores of Lake Biwa

    Castle in Bloom

    Hikone Castle stands with quiet authority, its form softened by seasonal color. In spring, cherry blossoms frame the structure, creating a moment where history and nature feel perfectly aligned.

At Lake Biwa, expansive views and still waters define the journey,
while Hotel New Awaji offers a place of quiet return.

Modern low-profile hotel building set into a green hillside above Lake Biwa, where contemporary design meets the rhythm of the natural landscape

Beauty and History

Hidden in a cedar forest near Lake Biwa, Taga Taisha has welcomed pilgrims since the 8th century.

Regional Lake Biwa feast with grilled fish, Omi wagyu, and seasonal sides, showcasing the depth and variety of the lake region's culinary tradition

A Culinary Expression
of Lake Biwa

Drawing from the lake and surrounding farmland, each dish reflects a deep respect for seasonality, ingredient integrity, and regional culinary tradition.

Curved lakeside promenade overlooking the open expanse of Lake Biwa with distant mountain silhouettes, inviting calm reflection and open-air exploration

Panorama of
Lake Biwa

Experience breathtaking views stretching across Japan’s largest lake, where sky and water meet in a vast horizon. From the green slopes to the shimmering surface below, every angle inspires reflection and awe. This open landscape invites you to pause, embrace the stillness, and feel the timeless bond between nature and humanity.

Paddleboarders approaching a traditional red torii gate on the still turquoise waters of Lake Biwa, offering a rare perspective on the lake's sacred shoreline

The Floating Gate
of Lake Biwa

From the surface of Lake Biwa, approach the torii gate of Shirahige Shrine at a measured pace. The stillness of the water and the clarity of the horizon frame the experience, creating a rare perspective where physical movement and cultural significance exist in quiet alignment.

Hotel New Awaji Group's Lake Biwa property at dusk beneath a vivid blue and amber sky, with the lake's still waters stretching toward distant mountains
Seasonal kaiseki dishes presented in lacquered and glass vessels with autumn garnish, reflecting the refined dining experience at Hotel New Awaji Group's Lake Biwa property
Private suite with floor-to-ceiling glass overlooking the open expanse of Lake Biwa, offering an uninterrupted connection to the water and sky
Warm interior of a geodesic dome accommodation at Hotel New Awaji Group, offering an intimate and distinctive lakeside retreat experience
Private outdoor onsen with natural rock garden and wooden enclosure, creating a serene and sheltered bathing experience at Hotel New Awaji Group