Station Kōhoku Mizudori Station

Discover the Soul of Lake Biwa at Kōhoku Mizudori Station

Nestled along the serene shores of Lake Biwa, Kōhoku Mizudori Station offers a vibrant gateway to one of Japan’s most scenic and culturally rich regions. Located in the heart of Ōmi’s lakefront landscape, this modern roadside station is framed by the breathtaking beauty of the Japanese sunset, designated among the “100 Best Sunsets in Japan.” Surrounded by reed beds and home to migratory waterfowl like the white-naped crane, the station sits within the expansive Kōhoku Bird Park, where nature and culture harmonize.

More than a rest stop, Kōhoku Mizudori Station is a celebration of local heritage. Visitors can savor regional specialties such as Biwa Lake fish, near-fermented delicacies like funazushi, and premium beef, all reimagined in contemporary dishes at the on-site restaurant. The shop offers farm-fresh produce, handmade rice-based treats, and authentic souvenirs, while nearby attractions like the Kōhoku Bird Center and the submerged Jōmon-era artifacts at Katsuragō Oyazaki Lakebed Ruins invite deeper exploration. Whether for a meal, a moment of stillness, or a journey through history, this station delivers an authentic taste of the lake’s enduring spirit.

Kōhoku Mizudori Station stands out as the only roadside station in the region where you can witness the iconic Japanese Sunsets Hundred Selection view of Lake Biwa at dusk, framed by flocks of white herons and coots. Its signature experience is the exclusive "Kohakucho Ramen," made with broth from lake fish and served alongside the rare "Hokoku Kirakira Biwa-masu Donburi," featuring Biwa Lake’s native fish. The station’s unique lakefront library and adjacent birdwatching center offer immersive nature experiences found nowhere else.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 10:30 AM and 11:00 AM on weekends to secure a seat at the restaurant before the 11:00 AM opening, as the Kohakucho Ramen and Omi Kirakira Biwamas Don are often fully sold out by noon.
• Hidden Gems: Stop at the deli counter near the entrance to pick up freshly made Omi Rice-based Baumkuchen—it’s only available during the 4–10 month season and sells out by 3:00 PM.
• Weekend Special: On Sundays, visit the Lakefront Market (Lake Side Market) held on the 21st of each month—local vendors sell handmade Biwa Lake Acrylic Keychains, which are not available elsewhere.
• Best View Time: Arrive at the Mizudori Terrace by 6:15 PM during summer months to witness the sunset over Lake Biwa, which is listed as one of Japan’s top 100 sunsets—arrive early to claim a spot near the railing with a clear view.
• Local Food Tip: Order the Grilled Smoked Sardine Spaghetti at the restaurant, which is only served on Tuesdays and Thursdays and is made with sardines caught daily from the nearby lake fishing port.
• Free Wi-Fi Access: Use the Freespot Wi-Fi at the station’s reception desk, which offers faster connection speeds than the general network—ideal for downloading event schedules or checking real-time updates on the Lakebird Center hours.
• Nearby Attraction Access: Walk 3 minutes to the Lakebird Center to use the free field scopes and binoculars—staff offer live commentary on migrating Coots, White Storks, and Great Bitterns during the peak season from October to March.

Spring (March-May): Lake-side cherry blossoms peak in late April, while fresh bamboo shoots arrive at the market by early April.

Summer (June-August): The Lakeview Market runs from late June through August, offering seasonal lake fish and fresh produce.

Autumn (September-November): The autumn harvest event is held on November 24, featuring local vegetables and seasonal specialties.

Winter (December-February): Winter birdwatching at the湖北野鳥センター is best from December to February, with sightings of white cranes and other migratory waterfowl.