Boat Rentals & Cruises · Keage / Yamashina / Otsu

Lake Biwa Canal Boat (Biwako Sosui-sen) びわ湖疏水船

Seasonal small-boat cruise through the Meiji-era Lake Biwa Canal tunnels between Otsu and Keage in Kyoto.

ClosedOperates spring (late Mar-mid Jun) and autumn (Oct-early Dec) on set days

PriceMii-dera to Keage (one way): ¥6,000
Otsu Port to Keage (one way): ¥14,000

Getting thereKeage Station (Tozai Line), exit 1, about 5 min walk (Keage pier)

Time needed1-2 hours

Best timeEarly April and November

AddressKeage Pier, Lake Biwa Canal, Kyoto

Websitebiwakososui.kyoto.travel

About

Revived in 2018, these 12-seat boats travel the historic 1890 canal that carries Lake Biwa water to Kyoto, passing through long brick tunnels and the Yamashina canal greenery. Trips run between Otsu (Otsu Port or Mii-dera) and Keage in spring and autumn, with downstream trips of about 55-85 minutes aboard. A rare look at Meiji industrial heritage from the water.

Highlights

Ride through the 2.4 km first tunnel
Meiji-era brick portals and stone work
Cherry blossoms in spring, autumn leaves in autumn
Guide commentary on board

Tips

Book online well ahead; boats seat only 9-12
Spring and autumn seasons only
Fares vary by date band; Otsu Port runs only on select days

Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-12

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Lake Biwa Canal Boat (Biwako Sosui-sen) びわ湖疏水船

About

Highlights

Tips

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