Lake Biwa

Researchers recently unearthed a remarkably well-preserved ancient relic, a nearly intact pottery vessel in Japan, dating back over 10,000 years near Lake Biwa.

About Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa is the largest freshwater lake in Japan.

Location: Shiga ken (prefecture), west-central Honshu.

Dimensions: Approximately 64 km long (north–south direction).

Area: Covers around 672 sq. km.

Naming: Its name refers to the biwa, a Japanese musical instrument that the lake resembles in shape.

Age: Believed to be one of the world’s oldest lakes, formed at least four million years ago.

Formation: The lake occupies a structural depression and is fed by small rivers from surrounding mountains.

Outlet: The Yodo River flows out from Lake Biwa’s southern tip, past Seta, and southwest to Osaka Bay.

Ecology: A breeding ground for freshwater fish, including trout; supports a pearl-culture industry.

Utility: Serves as a major reservoir for the cities of Kyoto and Otsu; also provides water for nearby textile industries.

Conservation: Designated as a Ramsar Site in 1993.