Lake Biwa: Mystical Chikubu Island Boat Tour from Many Ports
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Discover the sacred beauty of Chikubu Island on this guided boat journey across Lake Biwa. Renowned for its spiritual significance, Chikubu is home to the revered Benzaiten shrine, where you’ll experience centuries of devotion and tradition. With an expert local guide, explore the stunning Hogon-ji Temple, admire the ornate Kara-mon Gate, and participate in the ancient kawarake-nage ritual for good fortune. Delve into the island's rich history and see artifacts that highlight its artistic and spiritual legacy. Convenient departure options from Nagahama, Hikone, and Imazu make it easy to embark on this unique cultural adventure.
- Guided boat tour to Chikubu Island from Lake Biwa
- Explore historic sites like Hogon-ji Temple and Tsukubusuma Shrine
- Participate in traditional rituals such as kawarake-nage
- Choose from multiple departure points for convenience
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
Chikubushima
Rising from the waters of Lake Biwa, Chikubu Island has been revered as a sacred site for over a thousand years. Legends say it was the first place in Japan where Benzaiten, goddess of beauty, music, and fortune, was enshrined, and her spirit still fills the island’s temples and shrines. Hogon-ji Temple, Tsukubusuma Shrine, and the Dragon God Shrine reflect the blending of Buddhism and Shinto that shaped Japanese faith. Visitors can pass through the ornate Kara-mon Gate, cross the “Boat Corridor,” and join the kawarake-nage ritual, tossing clay discs for protection and luck. Artifacts found in the lakebed prove its role as a spiritual center long before organized religions. Surrounded by cliffs, pagodas, and treasure halls, Chikubu Island offers not just sightseeing but immersion in the mystery and devotion of Lake Biwa.
Options
From Hikone Port
From Hikone Port Starting point: びわ湖遊覧船のりば, 3755 Matsubarachō, Hikone, Shiga 522-0002, Japan
From Nagahama Port
From Nagahama Port Starting point: Chikubushima Cruise, 4-17 Minatochō, Nagahama, Shiga 526-0067, Japan
From Imazu Port
From Imazu Port Starting point: (Imazuko /), Japan, 520-1621 滋賀県高島市今津町今津３０
From Nagahama Station
From Nagahama Station Starting point: Nagahama Station, 1 Kitafunacho, Nagahama, Shiga 526-0057, Japan
What‘s Included
Boat ride to the island
Guided tour of Chikubu Island
Experience kawarake-nage: throwing clay discs for good luck
Sweet treats served on the island
Food and drinks
Personal expenses
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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