先従隗始 / CC0

Often called the "Itsukushima of Lake Biwa," this ancient shrine sends a vermilion-black torii standing out in the water of Japan’s largest lake. At dawn the gate catches the light off the water, while the main shrine and its mountainside okumiya sit across the lakeshore road.

Best season

Year-round (dawn best)

Crowd level

Hidden gem

Rating

4.2· 6,321 reviews

Opening hours

Daily Open 24 hours

Usual hours — confirm with the official site for holidays + seasonal closures.

Nearest station

Ōmi-Takashima Station (JR Kosei Line)

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