Southern Lake Biwa Loop Cycle Tour

Cycling the southern part of Lake Biwa reveals a stunning interplay of water and mountains—capturing the essence of Japan’s natural beauty. Starting and finishing at RBRJ (Lake Biwa), this 55 km loop blends sections of the official Biwaichi cycling route with detours into the quiet farmlands and rolling hills of Shiga. It’s a rewarding half-day ride best suited for experienced cyclists looking to explore beyond the beaten path.

The ride starts on the lovely Seta River outside of RBRJ Lake Biwa. You’ll immediately cross the Seta no Karahashi, a historic bridge with deep cultural significance, before following the scenic shoreline of Lake Biwa to the Lake Biwa Museum.

After the museum, you’ll make your way along the Melon Kaido before reaching the Lake Biwa Cyclists’ Sanctuary monument, and the Lake Biwa Ohashi. The observatory on the bridge offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Biwa and the surrounding mountains, making it a memorable highlight of any Biwaichi journey.

On the west side of the lake, we begin climbing into the hills above Sakamoto, and follow the scenic mountain road passing by to Saikyo-ji, Hiyoshi Taisha and further along Omi Jingu Shrine before returning to RBRJ along the Lake Biwa shoreline.