Lake Biwa Museum

Established in 1996, the Lake Biwa Museum explores the relationship between the lake and people, highlighting the natural and cultural aspects of Japan's largest and oldest lake. Providing drinking water for 14 million residents, including those in Osaka and Kyoto, and serving as a commercial fishing ground, the lake and its river system have a significant impact on human life. The museum's exhibits focus on the interplay between humans and Lake Biwa, with a strong emphasis on research and documentation of the lake's ecosystem and human impact. Additionally, it houses one of Japan's largest freshwater aquariums.

Aquarium

The aquarium shows more than 100 kinds of fish, including almost all the native fish of Lake Biwa and the rivers of Shiga. A cold-water tunnel tank holds the fish of the deep offshore waters, such as the Biwa salmon. Another section introduces creatures of other ancient lakes around the world, such as the Baikal seal.

Permanent exhibitions

Multiple exhibition rooms showcase the evolution of Lake Biwa's natural environment from 4 million years ago until present day. On display are fossils, rocks, minerals, and remnants of the lake's early inhabitants, as well as evidence of human activity. These exhibitions provide a comprehensive look at the history of the lake.

Discovery Room

The museum also features interactive exhibitions, where visitors can engage their senses by touching objects, observing, and learning.

Outdoor exhibitions

Outside the museum, visitors can stroll through recreations of natural environments, including different types of forests, such as ancient forests, forests from the Jomon and Yayoi periods, lakeside forests, and deciduous tree forests.