Clear-water peaceful beach
There are some places in Lake Biwa where the water quality is clean and you can swim. The Omimaiko (Omi-maiko, Omi-Maiko or Omi Maiko) swimming beach, where underground water from the Hira Mountains flows in, has crystal-clear waters with white sand. It is easily accessible from Kyoto and Osaka, making it Kansai's popular swimming spot in the summer.
> How to access JR Omi-Maiko station from Kyoto and Osaka
White sandy beaches stretch for about 4km on the shore of the lake, and the green pine forest provides a natural shade to block the sunlight (it is even better to have a sunshade on midsummer days). The water is shallow up to about 3m from the beach, so even people with small children can play in the water with peace of mind.
The Omimaiko beach consists of Kitahama (north), Nakahama (middle), and Minamihama (south). Since it takes only a 5 minute walk from JR Omi-Maiko station, many people gather at Nakahama beach. In the summer, shops and restaurants are also open and lively at this area.
On the other hand, Minamihama beach near J-Hoppers Lake Biwa Guesthouse has relatively few people and is easy to spend. Toilets and water station are nearby.
Photo: Biwako Otsu Tourism Association
Access from J-Hoppers Lake Biwa
The distance from J-Hoppers Lake Biwa Guesthouse to Minamihama beach is 240m (787ft), and it takes about 3 minutes on foot. Here is how to get there.
Notes
Omimaiko beach is owned by the Minamikomatsu Neighborhood Association, so please be careful not to do the following.
About barbecue
If you are going to barbecue, please pay 300 yen per person to the office or collection staff. Direct fire is prohibited. Please use the barbecue stove.
About camping
It is possible to bring a tent and camp for 2500 yen per night from April to November (excluding July and August). You can always have a day barbecue or day camp.
Prohibited matters
- Fireworks, bonfire, campfire
- Tarp, awning
- Use of generator
- Play music loudly
About swimming
Waves also occur in lakes. Infants playing in shallow water with a float may capsize due to the waves (the float is rather dangerous for infants). We recommend wearing a life jacket. Please be careful not to take your eyes off your child.
Buoys are set up around 10 meters from the beach, and that is the swimming area. Beyond the buoys, even adult men will not be able to reach the lake bottom, and the water temperature will be low. Even those who are good at swimming may suddenly get stuck and drown, which is very dangerous. Never swim over the buoys, as several people are involved in water accidents each year.
Please enjoy swimming in Omimaiko Beach staying at J-Hoppers Lake Biwa Guesthouse.