How to Get to Lake Biwa(Shiga, Otsu): Access from Kyoto, Osaka, Tokyo and Kansai International Airport

Lake Biwa (琵琶湖) is Japan’s largest freshwater lake and a world-renowned destination for bass fishing, sightseeing, and outdoor activities. Located in Shiga Prefecture, Lake Biwa is easily accessible from major cities such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo, as well as Kansai International Airport (KIX). This guide explains the best ways to reach Lake Biwa, whether you are traveling by train, bus, or car.

Index

1. Access from Kyoto area

Kyoto is the gateway city to Lake Biwa, located only about 30 minutes away by train.

By Train: Take the JR Biwako Line (part of the JR Tokaido Main Line) from Kyoto Station to Otsu Station (End of Lake Biwa). Travel time is about 10 minutes, fare around 200–300 yen.
By Car: About 30 minutes via general road.
Recommended for Bass Fishing: Many guided tours, including bass fishing trips, offer hotel pickup from Kyoto. This is the most convenient option if you are staying in Kyoto.

2. Access from Osaka area

Osaka is also well connected to Lake Biwa.

By Train: Take the JR Special Rapid Service from Osaka Station to Otsu Station. Travel time is about 45 minutes, fare around 1,000 yen.
By Car: About 1 hour via Meishin Highway and general road.
Customize: Our guide service also offers transportation to the Osaka area for an additional fee.

3. Access from Tokyo

Coming from Tokyo requires a longer journey but is still convenient.
You can get to Lake Biwa in 2.5 to 3 hours.

By Shinkansen (Bullet Train): Take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station (about 2 hours 15 minutes). From Kyoto, transfer to the JR Biwako Line to reach Otsu or other lakeside stations. Total travel time: 2.5–3 hours.
By Air: Flights from Tokyo Haneda or Narita to Osaka Itami or Kansai International Airport are available. From there, continue by train or car.
Recommended Option: Shinkansen is the fastest and most comfortable way for visitors with fishing equipment.
We provide complimentary shuttle service to and from the Kyoto Station area.

4. Access from Kansai International Airport (KIX)

For visitors from overseas, Kansai International Airport is the most convenient entry point for visiting Lake Biwa.

By Train: From KIX, take the JR Haruka Express to Kyoto Station (about 1 hour 15 minutes). From Kyoto, transfer to the JR Biwako Line to reach Otsu (about 10 minutes).
By Car: Driving takes about 1 hour 40 minutes depending on traffic.
Tip for Anglers: Many fishing guide services provide direct pickup from Kansai Airport (additional cost), saving you the hassle of train transfers with luggage.

We also offer bass fishing guide services at Lake Kawaguchi, located just a short distance from Tokyo.
This is the only place where you can enjoy bass fishing while viewing at Mt. Fuji.
Be sure to visit this lake and try catching bass with Mt. Fuji as your behind.