Lake Biwa Latest News
Researchers recently unearthed a remarkably well-preserved ancient relic, a nearly intact pottery vessel, in Japan, dating back over 10,000 years.
About Lake Biwa
- It is the largest freshwater lake in Japan.
- It is located in Shiga ken (prefecture), west-central Honshu.
- Approximately 64 km long from north to south, the lake covers an area of 672 sq.km.
- Its name refers to the biwa, a Japanese musical instrument that the lake resembles in shape.
- It is believed to be one of the world’s oldest lakes, formed at least four million years ago.
- The lake occupies a structural depression and is fed by small rivers flowing from the encircling mountains.
- The sole outlet, the Yodo River, flows from Lake Biwa’s southern tip, past Seta southwest to Ōsaka Bay.
- Lake Biwa is a breeding ground for freshwater fish, including trout, and supports a pearl culture industry.
- It also serves as a reservoir for the cities of Kyōto and Ōtsu and is a valuable resource for nearby textile industries.
- It was designated as a Ramsar site in 1993.
Source: IDR
Last updated on January, 2026
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Lake Biwa FAQs
Q1. Lake Biwa is located in which country?+
Q2. Which river serves as the sole outlet of Lake Biwa?+
Q3. In which year was Lake Biwa designated as a Ramsar site?+
Q4. Which major Japanese cities depend on Lake Biwa as a reservoir?+
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