Otsu

I used this cable car on my way back from climbing Mount Hiei. I was so impressed to see Chikubu Island and Mount Hakusan from here. It was a very retro-feeling cable car.

Lake Biwa is Japan's largest freshwater lake and definitely worth a visit. While train access is inconvenient, taking the bus is the most worthwhile option. This trip omitted the observation deck visit, but it was still very worthwhile. If you enjoy visiting Buddhist temples, this is a must-do. A big thank you to our guide, Casper! Although we almost couldn't find our way to the bus stop, she eventually found us and even helped us take photos. Her bilingual explanations in Chinese and English were truly wonderful! Because the itinerary was quite rushed, I recommend bringing your own food to avoid wasting time eating, as you'll miss many photogenic spots!

April 11, 2026: The sky was clear and the itinerary was well-planned. Before arriving at our first stop, MIHO, we saw that minibuses had been queuing for over an hour to enter. Fortunately, the tour bus allowed priority entry. Our tour leader, Xiao Liao, arranged a 2.5-hour stop at the MIHO Art Museum, allowing for a leisurely visit, and we happened to catch the special exhibition: "The Tale of Ancient Gold." The outdoor scenery—blue skies and pink cherry blossoms—was dreamlike, like a fairyland. Next, we visited the former Chikurin-in Temple and Shirahime Shrine, enjoying the beautiful scenery of Lake Biwa along the way. Xiao Liao not only explained the attractions but also provided information on dining options. Additionally, because I was worried about motion sickness on the mountain roads, I had noted in the booking that I preferred front-row seats, and I'm very grateful to Xiao Liao for thoughtfully arranging second-row seats for me.

The boat ride on the lake was smooth and the water was crystal clear. The boat facilities were excellent, and the staff were fantastic!