The Biwako 2025 Biennale returns to Shiga!

The town of Omihachiman

On the shores of Lake Biwa, Omihachiman is a traditional market town, dominated by Mount Hachiman (accessible by cable car). While its mountainous landscape attracts many hikers, the town is best known for its canals. Take a boat trip between two exhibitions. Admire the old merchants' houses and discover the ruins of Hachiman Castle, built in the 16th century.

Chomei-ji temple

In Omihachiman, Chōmei-ji is the 31st temple on the "Path of the 33 Temples of Saigoku Kannon", a centuries-old Buddhist pilgrimage dedicated to the goddess of mercy, Kannon.

The temple's history is closely linked to the legend of Takenouchi no Sukune, a statesman who is said to have lived to the age of 300 after carving his vows on a willow tree. Later, Prince Shōtoku discovered the tree and, on the old man's advice, carved a statue of the goddess Kannon. To extend your life expectancy, however, you'll need to climb the 808 stone steps that lead up to the main complex. Good luck!

Okishima

In the middle of Lake Biwa, Okishima is Japan's only inhabited island in a freshwater lake. It offers a glimpse of a rural way of life, where fishing is the mainstay of the local economy. Taste funazushi, a sushi made from freshwater carp, and greet the four-legged inhabitants of what is sometimes called "cat island".

Note that you can visit Okishima and Chomei-ji temple free of charge with your Biennale entrance ticket.