海津大崎
Kaizu Osaki
A lakeside road lined with 800 cherry trees—Kaizu Osaki is one of Japan’s most beautiful, yet quietly kept, sakura secrets.
Attractions
Seasonal Landscape, Cherry Blossoms, Scenic Drive, Lake Biwa
MK Guide Recommends
Hugging a narrow peninsula on the northwestern shore of Lake Biwa, Kaizu Osaki is celebrated as one of Japan’s top 100 cherry blossom viewing spots. In early to mid-April, over 800 yamazakura trees bloom along a 4-kilometer stretch of lakeside road, creating a tunnel of soft pink arching over the water. The blossoms reflect off the lake’s surface, while distant snow-dusted mountains complete the painterly scene. The route is accessible by car, bicycle, or seasonal sakura-viewing boat cruise from Makino. Outside the bloom window, Kaizu Osaki is still worth visiting for its quiet fishing coves, rural atmosphere, and views toward Chikubu Island. During peak sakura season, expect narrow roads, slow traffic, and visual magic.
Facilities & Services
4 km cherry blossom road along Lake Biwa
Seasonal sakura boat cruises from Makino
Best seen early to mid-April (weather dependent)
Public toilets and limited parking along the route
10-minute taxi or bike ride from JR Makino Station
Cha Cha Maru
A small, countryside tea house in Hino serving Japanese sweets and tea in a calm, traditional setting.
Steak Kitchen Boston Common
A long-running neighborhood steakhouse in Rittō serving carefully prepared beef and Western dishes in a relaxed, dependable setting.
Garden Museum Hiei
An open-air art garden on Mount Hiei featuring sculpture, seasonal flowers, and expansive views of Kyoto and Lake Biwa.
Wagashiya Anpan Yūki
A specialty wagashi bakery in Ōtsu dedicated to anpan made with traditional Japanese sweets craftsmanship.
Table Mother