For many cyclists, riding around Lake Biwa (“Biwaichi”) is seen as a physical challenge—a 200km training course to be conquered in a single day. But this is a missed opportunity. Lake Biwa is to Japan what Lake Garda is to Italy or Lake Constance is to Europe. Historically a vital transportation hub, its shores are dotted with beautiful port towns, feudal castles, and unique cultural landscapes. Just as no one would sprint through the Louvre Museum, the only true way to experience this rich cultural region is through “Slow Cycling” at speeds under 20km/h.
Kyoto as Your Base Camp Your journey should begin and end in Japan’s most sophisticated city: Kyoto. With its world-class hotels, dining, and logistics to store your heavy luggage, it is the perfect hub. Renting an E-Bike in Kyoto, setting off for a 4-day adventure, and returning to the luxury of Kyoto for a celebratory dinner is the smartest way to travel.
The E-Bike as Your “Magic Carpet” Accessing Lake Biwa from Kyoto requires crossing a mountain pass (Osakayama), and the lake winds can be strong. However, with an E-Bike, these are no longer obstacles. To save your energy for “sightseeing” rather than just “moving,” a high-performance E-Bike is an essential tool.
220 km (137 miles)
900 m (2,950 ft)
4Days (Avg. 55km, 34 miles /day)
- GIANT EXPLORE E+
- MERIDA ePRESSO
The single most important factor for the success of this trip is choosing the “right bike.” Unfortunately, many rental shops around Lake Biwa only offer small E-Bikes designed for Asian physiques or city bikes that cannot carry luggage, making them unsuitable for Western travelers or multi-day touring.
[Kyoto eBIkes] is the only shop in Kyoto offering professional-grade E-Bikes specifically optimized for long-distance touring.
Western Sizing: We have frame sizes that comfortably fit riders over 190cm (6’3″).
Touring Gear: We provide GPS computers with the route pre-installed and pannier bags to carry your luggage for 4 days.
Pro Specs: Our bikes feature high-capacity batteries (e.g., Bosch systems) to ensure you go the distance.
Departing from the shop, the ride begins by passing through Gion (the Geisha district) and the Zen grounds of Nanzen-ji Temple.
From Yamashina Station, you will enter a beautiful, narrow path along the Lake Biwa Canal (Sosui), a route known only to locals. The highlight is “Kozeki Pass,” a historic bypass of the old Tokaido Road. Riding your E-Bike through this quiet, beautiful Bamboo Forest—far away from the crowds of Arashiyama—will feel like traveling back in time.
After crossing the pass, you will descend straight to Otsu Port, where the vast lake opens up before you. Stop for lunch at a cycle station or cafe overlooking the water. From there, enjoy a smooth ride along the designated cycling road to Omihachiman.
After crossing the pass, you will descend straight to Otsu Port, where the vast lake opens up before you. Stop for lunch at a cycle station or cafe overlooking the water. From there, enjoy a smooth ride along the designated cycling road to Omihachiman.
We recommend staying at one of these hotels, which are cyclist-friendly and offer easy access to restaurants:
Hotel New Omi: A full-service city hotel offering comfort and excellent hospitality.
Green Hotel YES Omihachiman: A convenient and reasonably priced option, perfect for a good night’s rest.
Day 2 is a luxurious itinerary with a short 48km ride (approx. 3 hours) and 5 hours dedicated to sightseeing. Leaving Omihachiman, you will stop in Hikone. We recommend “Omi Champon,” a local soul food noodle dish packed with vegetables, though the town offers many culinary options. After lunch, visit Hikone Castle. This site is very cyclist-friendly; you can ride your E-Bike across the moat bridge and park at the designated area inside the castle grounds. This allows for a stress-free walk up to the National Treasure keep and through the stunning Genkyuen Garden.
If you are eager to ride a bit more, we highly recommend a detour to the Nakasendo, also known as the “Samurai Trail.” Taking this route brings the day’s total to 60km (37 miles) with an elevation gain of 280m (918 ft).
Instead of taking the lakeside road from Hikone to Nagahama, you will head inland along this historic highway. The route passes through Torimoto-juku, Banba-juku, and Samegai-juku. These former post towns are incredibly well-preserved. Riding through these quiet, authentic streets feels like stepping onto a movie set of old Japan. The clear streams and traditional architecture of Samegai-juku, in particular, are simply stunning.
In the afternoon, arrive in Nagahama. Historically a town of gunsmiths, it has evolved into a center of artistic craftsmanship, inheriting that DNA of “Japanese dexterity.” Today, the town is famous for glass art (Kurokabe Square) and detailed figurines. The preserved historical streetscape is perfect for an afternoon stroll.
Stay & Nightlife: Nagahama comes alive at night. The old town is filled with Izakayas where you can try Omi Beef or the adventurous “Funazushi” (fermented sushi). Be sure to wake up early the next morning to catch the stunning sunrise over Mt. Ibuki.
Wano Retreat HITOIKI: A renovated “Machiya” hotel. My top recommendation for an authentic stay.
Hatago Shirachu: A traditional Ryokan known for its excellent cuisine.
Grand Mercure Lake Biwa Resort & Spa: A large resort hotel for those seeking modern luxury.
Day 3 focuses on the sheer joy of cycling along the “Northern Lake” (Okubiwako), the most pristine and scenic part of Lake Biwa. Today is less about visiting museums and more about riding through breathtaking landscapes.
Leaving Nagahama, look out for the mystical Chikubu Island floating in the middle of the lake. The terrain here is undulating, hugging the rugged coastline. With our powerful E-Bikes, these hills are not obstacles but opportunities to gain elevation for better views. The climb around Shizugatake is where you will truly appreciate the electric assist.
For lunch, stop at a “Michi-no-Eki” (Roadside Station) in the Shiotsu area at the northern tip of the lake. Adventurous foodies should try “Funazushi Chazuke” (fermented sushi served with hot tea/broth), a rare local delicacy. For a more classic comfort food, the “Kamo Soba” (Buckwheat noodles with duck) is outstanding.
Spring (April): The cherry blossom tunnel at Kaizu Osaki is world-class.
Summer (Jul-Sep): The white sandy beaches of Imazu and Takahama invite you to park your E-Bike and take a refreshing swim in the lake.
Autumn (Nov): The Metasequoia Avenue in Makino turns a dramatic golden hue, creating a cinematic landscape.
our destination is the Takahama area, known for its resort atmosphere.
Takarabune Onsen Yumoto Kotobuki: A traditional Ryokan right on the shore. Relax in the “Onsen” (hot spring) while gazing out at the lake.
Lakeside Terrace Biwako: For a modern resort experience. Enjoy glamping-style amenities and a relaxed lakeside vibe perfect for Western travelers.
On the final day, we head back toward Kyoto. The first stop is Shirahige Shrine, famous for its large red Torii gate floating in the lake. This is a prime photo spot, but please be careful as the road in front of the shrine can be busy. For your safety, do not run across the road. Instead, use the pedestrian crosswalk located slightly down the road to access the shrine grounds safely.
After riding south along the lake, we stop for lunch in the Wani area. From here, we leave Lake Biwa and head west up along the Wani River into the mountains. The scenery transforms completely, revealing beautiful “Tanada” (Terraced Rice Fields), a classic landscape of rural Japan. The route includes a climb of about 250m up to Tochu Pass. However, with your powerful E-Bike, you won’t be out of breath. You can effortlessly climb while enjoying the stunning countryside views.
After crossing the pass, a stop at Sanzen-in Temple is highly recommended. With over 1,200 years of history, this vast temple is famous for its serene moss gardens and the cute, smiling “Warabe Jizo” statues hidden within. You can experience deep Kyoto culture here, such as drinking Matcha while viewing the gardens or trying your hand at Sutra Copying.
Leaving Sanzen-in, the rest of the ride is a reward. Enjoy a long, gentle downhill ride all the way into Kyoto city. Feel the breeze as you descend from the mountains and make your triumphant return to the Kyoto eBikes shop.
We can also pick you up from the shop to your hotel, or collect your bike from your hotel in Kyoto. Enjoy a fun-filled Kyoto evening!
