Lake Biwa

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

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