Lesser-Known Cherry Blossom Spots πΈ (1)
A Guide to Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture + Transportation ππ’ Good afternoon, everyone! In preparation for the upcoming cherry blossom season, Big Penguin will continue to update on lesser-known cherry blossom spots across Japan. This time, at the request of the members of Group 2, we'll introduce the cherry blossom destinations and transportation options around Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture. π Similar to Gifu Prefecture, Shiga boasts two spots selected in Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Sites, with diverse varieties and more convenient transportation. πΈ First up is the recently popularized cherry blossom spot "Lake Biwa Canal." This canal, dating back to the Meiji period, is lined with over 100 Somei Yoshino and mountain cherry trees on both sides. ππ’ Though not massive in scale, the waterway adds a charming touch, and there's even a night cherry blossom viewing event. It's definitely worth a visit! π This year's illumination dates are from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. from March 25th to April 13th. Be sure to plan your visit accordingly! π Transportation: Take the Kyoto Metro Tozai Line from Kyoto towards "Lake Biwa Otsu." Transfer to the Keihan Ishiyama Sakamoto Line heading towards "Sakamoto Hiei-zan-guchi / Omi Jingu-mae" at the terminal, and get off at Miidera Station. π It's a 2-minute walk from there. πΈ Having come all the way to Lake Biwa Canal, how could you miss the nearby "Miidera Temple"? Just like the Miidera in Wakayama, the Miidera in Otsu is famous for its cherry blossoms, but it also has a richer historical heritage. ππ’ The temple grounds are home to over 1,300 Somei Yoshino cherry trees. π From March 25th to April 13th, there's a special spring opening, and you can even reserve a visit to the highly photogenic "Moon Viewing Stage." π Transportation: As mentioned above, it's a 10-minute walk from Lake Biwa Canal. #LakeBiwa #MiideraTemple πΈ#ShigaTravel πΏ #CherryBlossomSeason π
