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Lake Biwa

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Lake Biwa Weather, Climate and Best Time to Visit

Data source：Meteostat
Update date：2025-09

Lake Biwa year round climate

  • Spring (March–May): 8.7–17.7°C on average, mild climate but with relatively heavy rainfall, especially in April and May. Common activities: Flower viewing, lakeside walks, cycling. Recommended clothing: Light jacket, long-sleeved shirt, rain gear.
  • Summer (June–August): 22.7–28.5°C on average, hot and humid with frequent rainfall, most rainfall in July. Common activities: Water activities, camping, sightseeing at summer resorts. Recommended clothing: Light and breathable clothing, sun hat, rain gear.
  • Autumn (September–November): 18.3–26.1°C on average, pleasant and comfortable climate with less rainfall. Common activities: Hiking, viewing autumn leaves, lakeside leisure. Recommended clothing: Light jacket, long-sleeved shirt.
  • Winter (December–February): 4.1–6.7°C on average, cold and dry with little rainfall. Common activities: Hot spring trips, indoor activities. Recommended clothing: Warm jacket, hat, scarf, gloves.

Lake Biwa climatological average

Annual average temperature: approx. 15.7°C / Annual rainfall: approx. 1670 mm / Summer humidity: 70%–80% / Rainiest month: July

Lake Biwa monthly average temperature and precipitation

Month
Air temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
January
4.1°C
90.8
February
5°C
79.7
March
8.7°C
123.8
April
14.5°C
152.2
May
17.7°C
188.3
June
22.7°C
223.6
July
27.6°C
235.1
August
28.5°C
165.1
September
26.1°C
117.4
October
18.3°C
124.5
November
13°C
96.9
December
6.7°C
72.7

Lake Biwa weather for the next seven days

5/7
Thursday
Sunny
23°C/12.6°C
5/8
Friday
Moderate rain
19.9°C/11.2°C
5/9
Saturday
Patchy rain nearby
16.9°C/10.2°C
5/10
Sunday
Sunny
19.2°C/9.5°C
5/11
Monday
Sunny
21.4°C/12.4°C
5/12
Tuesday
Sunny
21.9°C/12.9°C
5/13
Wednesday
Patchy rain nearby
23.2°C/13.5°C

Lake Biwa Frequently Asked Questions and Useful Information for Travel

Is it safe to swim in Lake Biwa?

Yes, you can swim in Lake Biwa during its official swimming season, which typically runs from mid-July to late August, although locals might swim earlier in June at protected spots. Lake Biwa offers a freshwater, non-sticky experience with gentle waves and sandy beaches, making it a popular spot for recreational activities and swimming.

Why is Lake Biwa famous?

Lake Biwa is famous for being Japan's largest and one of the world's oldest lakes, which has fostered incredible biodiversity, including many endemic species of fish. It's also celebrated for its scenic beauty, historical and cultural significance, providing vital water resources to major cities, and serving as a popular tourist destination for its natural landscapes and cultural sites. Lake Biwa is of tectonic origin, dating back at least four million years, making it one of the world's few ancient lakes.

Can you see Mount Fuji from Lake Biwa?

Unfortunately, you cannot see Mount Fuji from Lake Biwa. However, Lake Biwa boasts its own unique beauty and attractions waiting to be explored, offering stunning natural landscapes and cultural experiences.

Is Lake Biwa closer to Kyoto or Osaka?

Lake Biwa is located very close to Kyoto, with Otsu city on its shores being just a short distance from Kyoto. This proximity makes it an easily accessible destination for visitors exploring the Kyoto region.

What kind of biodiversity can be found in Lake Biwa?

Lake Biwa is home to an exceptional level of biodiversity due to its ancient origins. It supports a rich and unique ecosystem with over 1,000 recorded species and subspecies, including many endemic fish, birds, and mollusks. The lake is recognized as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention, serving as a crucial habitat for various species.