Biwako Cruise
CHIKUBUSHIMA CRUISE
Chikubushima has long been known as the island where the gods live. Even today, many visitors come to
experience the mystical energy of this island.
Since ancient times, Chikubushima has been revered for its Hogon-ji Temple, which is No. 30 of the 33 temples of the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage. It is a small island with a circumference of 2 km, at almost equal distance from Imazu Port and Nagahama Port. The trees that cover the island (mainly conifers) are beautiful throughout the seasons. There are lots to see, including the Hogon-ji Karamon Gate and the main hall of Tsukubusuma Shrine, both of which are national treasures, as well as Hogon-ji’s Funa Corridor, an important cultural property. Recently, it has been used as a location for television and film productions, and in addition to the fact that it is known as a place of mystical energy with a mysterious atmosphere, many visitors come to claim their own share of that energy. The benzaiten goddess happiness dolls and kawarake-nage earthenware tile throwing (to ward off evil) are also popular. A regular sightseeing boat stopping at Chikubushima leaves from Nagahama Port and Imazu Port (cruise schedules are subject to change by season or day of the week).