Omi-shirahama Beach

Omi-Shirahama Beach (近江白浜), located along the western shores of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, is a scenic stretch of coastline renowned for its soft white sands and a backdrop of verdant pine trees. Its shallow, clear waters make it especially safe for families with children, while the expansive beach area is ideal for sunbathing, beach games, and lakeside strolls. During the warmer months, the beach comes alive with swimmers and water sports enthusiasts, and dedicated areas make it easy to set up for barbecues or spend the night at one of the campgrounds.

The beach is also the vibrant setting for the region’s annual hot air balloon race, an event that transforms the sky into a kaleidoscope of colors and draws crowds from across Japan. The combination of gentle lakeside breezes and open space creates perfect conditions for ballooning, while on the ground, visitors can enjoy food stalls, family-friendly games, and festive summer energy. Whether you’re watching balloons drift overhead, splashing in the water, or gathering around a beachside grill, Omi-Shirahama offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty and seasonal excitement.