Okishima, Lake island in Shiga Prefecture, Japan
Okishima rises 225 meters above Lake Biwa, stretching across the waters as the largest inhabited freshwater island in Japan.
The island community has maintained traditional fishing practices since ancient times, developing specialized techniques for harvesting lake fish throughout generations.
Local residents of Okishima continue their centuries-old traditions of freshwater fishing, forming Japan's only lake-based fishing industry.
Visitors reach the island through regular ferry services from Horikiriko port, with 11 daily crossings during weekdays and 9 on Sundays.
The island houses a population of 350 residents alongside numerous cats, making it the largest inhabited lake island community in Japan.
Location: Omihachiman
Elevation above the sea: 225 m
Part of: Biwako Quasi-National Park
GPS coordinates: 35.20778,136.06333
Latest update: September 23, 2025 12:41
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