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Lake Biwa Boat Race Tour
Kyoto,
Japan
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Overview
Duration
4h
Languages
Japanese, English
Voucher type
E-Ticket
What To Expect
You may have heard of Japan's famous "Keirin racing," now an Olympic sport, which is a bicycle race that is paced in the first laps by a motorized vehicle. The boat races on Lake Biwa are a kind of aquatic version of Keirin racing, but with high-powered, high-tech speedboats instead of bicycles.
These races, set on spectacular "Biwako," or Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan, make for a thrilling afternoon. Wagering on the races is part of the fun. The local government of Shiga Prefecture organizes the races and oversees the gaming, which is carefully managed and entirely legal.
The races will get your heart pumping -- perhaps even a bit faster if you've placed a wager on one of the boats...
Your guide, Kenji, who has twenty years of experience with these races, will provide detailed instructions on how to enjoy the sport and how to place bets.
Group size: 2 - 4 people
What to remember
Important info
Public transportation options are available nearby. Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries. Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health. Suitable for all physical fitness levels. Not suitable for travelers under the age of 20
What's included
The entry fee and a reserved seat at the races. A light picnic and drinks. Train and bus tickets to and from the boat race stadium
What's not included
Money or tickets for betting. Insurance of any type
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your tour until a day in advance
Provider
Kenji from Kyoto, a certified international sake sommelier
Meeting Point
I'll be waiting for you near the big gate that says "JR Kyoto Station" at the main entrance to Kyoto station. You'll know me by my LINNELL'S backpack. I've included a photo of the meeting point -- which includes me and my big backpack -- in the photos above.