Lake Biwa: Mystical Chikubu Island Boat Tour from Many Ports
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
📍Meeting point: If you choose the Imazu Port option, the meeting point is at the Chikubu Island Cruise Imazu Port. The guide will be waiting for you with a yellow sign. For details, please refer to the map.
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
Travel Insurance for Japan
SafetyWing covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and adventure activities. Plans from $1.5/day.
What To Expect
Stop 1
⏱ 2h 30mAdmission includedRising 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.
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
What’s NOT Included
- ✗Food and drinks
- ✗Personal expenses
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
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From
$148.46