Ukimido Temple Otsu
A serene Zen temple on Lake Biwa, its iconic 'floating' hall offers breathtaking views and a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds
Ukimido Temple Otsu
Best Time
Vibrant foliage, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Zen temple on Lake Biwa, its iconic 'floating' hall offers breathtaking views and a peaceful escape.
"It’s a zen site which reflecting Zen Buddhist principles of simplicity and finding enlightenment through introspection."
serene escape
Visit early or late to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere with minimal crowds.
Autumn's Beauty
Experience the temple's charm with vibrant autumn leaves for a truly magical visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Floating Hall (Ukimido)
On Lake Biwa
A picturesque pavilion that appears to float on the water, offering serene lake views and a sense of calm.
Lake Biwa Views
From the temple grounds
Breathtaking panoramic vistas of Japan's largest freshwater lake, especially stunning during autumn.
Zen Garden & Architecture
Temple grounds
Experience the minimalist beauty of the Zen garden and the intricate details of the temple's architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
serene escape
Visit early or late to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere with minimal crowds.
Autumn's Beauty
Experience the temple's charm with vibrant autumn leaves for a truly magical visit.
Small Fee, Big Reward
Entry is free, but a small fee (around 300 yen) may apply for certain areas.
Good Luck Charms
Try your luck with a gacha-style Omikuji (fortune) for 100 yen.
Tips
from all over the internet
serene escape
Visit early or late to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere with minimal crowds.
Autumn's Beauty
Experience the temple's charm with vibrant autumn leaves for a truly magical visit.
Small Fee, Big Reward
Entry is free, but a small fee (around 300 yen) may apply for certain areas.
Good Luck Charms
Try your luck with a gacha-style Omikuji (fortune) for 100 yen.
Photography Paradise
Capture stunning shots of the 'floating' temple and serene lake views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ukimido Temple for its profound serenity and lack of crowds, offering a peaceful escape with beautiful lake views. While small, its unique 'floating' architecture and Zen ambiance make it a worthwhile visit for those seeking tranquility and a moment of introspection. Some wish for more to explore nearby, but the core experience is highly appreciated.
"Very serene temple with hardly any tourist. It’s very peaceful, beautiful and small. Recommend if one has spare time. Very well connected with train and a bus. No tickets required, it’s free."
Manpreeth Nishter
"It’s a zen site which reflecting Zen Buddhist principles of simplicity and finding enlightenment through introspection. It’s minimalist and symbolic representation of nature and pruned trees made this site extraordinary. Very nice place to rest your mind.
Parking: yes
Ticket: yes
Toilet: yes"
吉岡
"Beautiful shrine. When we visited it was just ourselves and a few locals. Not many tourists make the trip to this one. But if you are in Otsu it's worth the visit. Need to pay a small 300 yen fee to enter but worth it."
Gary Hyde
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ukimido Temple is well-connected by public transport. You can take a train from Kyoto to Otsu City, followed by a bus. The journey is approximately less than an hour by public transport. +1
Yes, parking is available at Ukimido Temple, making it convenient for those traveling by car.
The most common route involves taking a train to Otsu Station and then catching a local bus that stops near the temple.
Yes, Ukimido Temple can be visited as a day trip from Osaka, though it might be a longer journey. It's more easily accessible from Kyoto.
The JR Tokaido Line is a common option to reach Otsu Station from major cities like Kyoto.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General entry to the temple grounds is free, but there's a small admission fee of around 300 yen for adults and 100 yen for children to access certain areas. +1
While specific hours can vary, many visitors recommend arriving before closing time, as one traveler rushed to make it 30 minutes before closing.
Yes, a small fee of 300 yen for adults and 100 yen for children is typically charged for entry.
Yes, you can buy good luck charms and try a gacha-style Omikuji (fortune) for 100 yen.
It's noted as a place with hardly any tourists, offering a peaceful experience with just a few locals. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The 'floating' hall itself, with its reflection on Lake Biwa, is the primary iconic photo spot. The surrounding lake views and the temple's architecture also offer great photographic opportunities. 
While not explicitly stated, general photography of the grounds and exterior is widely encouraged. Be mindful of any posted signs regarding interior photography.
Late afternoons during the golden hour can provide beautiful lighting for capturing the temple and lake. Autumn also offers stunning colors for photography.
There are no specific mentions of drone usage. It's advisable to check local regulations or inquire on-site, as drone use is often restricted at religious sites.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake views and the temple. A standard zoom lens will also be versatile.
🎫 🧘 Onsite Experience
The temple is described as very serene, peaceful, and zen, offering a place to rest your mind and find introspection. +1
Most visitors find that less than an hour is sufficient to explore the temple and enjoy the views, though some might wish to spend a bit more time.
Yes, restroom facilities are available on-site.
It's a Zen site reflecting Buddhist principles of simplicity and enlightenment through introspection, with a minimalist and symbolic representation of nature.
Some visitors express a desire to spend more time exploring other nearby shrines and piers with boats, suggesting there's more to see in the vicinity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that it's a serene environment, so encourage children to explore respectfully. The short duration of a typical visit means it won't tire out younger ones, and the opportunity to try a fortune (Omikuji) can be a fun interactive element.
🧘 Solo Travelers & Seekers of Peace
It's a place to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with yourself. The accessibility by public transport makes it an easy addition to an itinerary, offering a profound sense of peace without requiring extensive travel time.
📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts
+1 The interplay of light, water, and architecture provides a unique visual experience that is highly rewarding to capture. Beyond the main hall, the surrounding landscape of Lake Biwa and the temple's Zen garden offer further photographic opportunities. The minimalist aesthetic of the temple itself is also a subject of interest for those appreciating Japanese design and architecture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The "Floating Hall" and its Significance
The hall's unique position over the lake offers breathtaking views, especially during different seasons. Many visitors are drawn to the tranquil atmosphere it provides, a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of urban life. The temple's history dates back over a thousand years, adding a layer of profound cultural significance to the experience.
When visiting, take a moment to appreciate the reflections of the hall on the water's surface and the surrounding natural beauty. It's a place where architecture and nature harmoniously coexist, offering a moment of calm and reflection for all who visit.
Experiencing Autumn at Ukimido
Visiting during autumn allows you to capture some of the most iconic and colorful photographs of the temple. The crisp autumn air also adds to the serene and pleasant experience of exploring the grounds. It's a time when the natural beauty of the area is at its peak, making it a highly recommended period for a visit.
If you plan to visit during autumn, consider going on a weekday or during off-peak hours to fully appreciate the scenery without large crowds. The combination of the temple's unique design and the vibrant autumn colors makes for an unforgettable visual experience.
Zen Principles and Introspection
Travelers often describe the atmosphere as deeply peaceful and a great place to 'rest your mind.' The deliberate lack of excessive ornamentation and the harmonious integration with nature are key elements that contribute to this calming effect. It's a space where one can escape the noise of daily life and engage in quiet contemplation.
For those seeking a spiritual or mindful experience, Ukimido Temple offers a unique opportunity. The serene environment, coupled with the symbolic architecture, provides a conducive setting for meditation and self-discovery. Even a short visit can leave a lasting impression of tranquility and inner peace.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit