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Biwako Kisen Chikubushima Cruise

Cruise in comfort while gliding towards the mystical isle that floats atop lake Biwa.

Last update : 21 Apr 2024

Head Editor : Biwako Kisen Steamship Co.,Ltd.

Highlights
Photos
Official FAQs
Reviews
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Details
Nearby Spots

Chikubu Island measures just a sheer 2km all around at its perch on the northern end of Lake Biwa. It remains a point of faith and power spot for many since ancient times.

With no access to Chikubu Island by train or foot, this is one spot that’s perfect for booking a comfortable cruise. Set out from the Nagahama Port on the east side of the lake or Imazu Port on the west and make your way via the Chikubu Island Cruise. The area around Imazu Port retains the retro atmosphere of a former post town, while Nagahama Port, once a thriving castle town, offers plenty of travel-worthy sights to explore around the port. Total travel time to Chikubu Island is about 25-30 minutes on the boat. Make the most of your time over on the open deck with the joy of majestic views and rejuvenating breeze swept out over Lake Biwa.

In addition to roundtrip island route there’s even the Lake Biwa Cross-Lake Route that takes you across the lake from east to west. Both ports sit within walking distance from a station meaning you can pick the spot that best fits your travel plans.

Highlights

Access to Chikubu Island via two ports: Imazu Port and Nagahama Port.
Chikubu Island is dotted with Important Cultural Properties and National Treasures, making the entire island a point of faith for many.
Port areas boast plenty of travel-worthy spots to explore.

Photos

On the way to Chikubu Island with the best of impeccable views over Lake Biwa.
Chikubu Island, a mystical island speckled with Important Cultural Properties and National Treasures.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)

We provide brochures in English, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, and Thai. For signs, the main items are written in these four languages.

Is it possible to re-enter the premises?

Re-entry is not allowed.

Is free WiFi available in the facility?

Biwa Lake Free Wi-Fi is available on all ships (login required). Please note that signal availability may vary by location.

Are coin lockers available?

Otsu Port: Coin lockers are available in the waiting room.
Nagahama Port & Imazu Port: We offer luggage storage for a fee (200 yen). Please inquire at the counter.

What about any additional questions?

Please refer to the “Frequently Asked Questions” section on our official website.

Reviews

Details

Name in Japanese: 琵琶湖汽船竹生島クルーズ
Postal Code: Imazu Port：520-1621
Nagahama Port：526-0067
Address: Imazu Port： 30 Imazu, Imazucho, Takashima City, Shiga
Nagahama Port：4-17 Minatocho, Nagahama City, Shiga
Telephone: Imazu Port：0740-22-1747
Nagahama Port：0749-62-3390
Closed: Open every day
Business Hours: Telephone Hours 9:00am-4:30pm
Pricing: Imazu Route: Adults (Junior high school students and above) 3,000 yen, Elementary students (12 years old and under) 1,500 yen
Nagahama Route: Adults (Junior high school students and above) 3,400 yen, Elementary students (12 years old and under) 1,700 yen
Lake Biwa Cross-Lake Route: Adults (Junior high school students and above) 3,200 yen, Elementary students (12 years old and under) 1,600 yen
*Preschool children are free with every paying adult
Access: Nagahama Port: About a 10-minute walk from JR Nagahama Station
Imazu Port: About a 5-minute walk from JR Omi-Imazu Station
Credit Cards: Accepted
Official Website: Official Website (English)