Lake Biwa Boat Race Tour

The Lake Biwa Boat Race Tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Japan’s vibrant sporting culture. Participants can enjoy a scenic train ride, a walking tour at the race venue, and learn about the intricacies of boat racing. Led by an experienced guide, the tour promises an engaging and immersive adventure on the country’s largest lake. For those seeking to dive deeper into Kyoto’s thrilling world of boat racing, this tour might just be the perfect gateway.

Key Points

• Tour includes a 2.83-hour guided walking tour of Lake Biwa and the boat racing event, with instructions on enjoying and wagering on the sport.
• Tour is priced at $198.23 per person, with a group size of 2-4 participants, and is available in English and Japanese.
• Participants aged 20 and older can place bets on the boat races, with the entry fee included in the tour price.
• Tour starts and ends at Kyoto Station, with transportation provided via train and bus to the race venue.
• Tour has an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars from travelers, with positive feedback on the itinerary, guide knowledge, and cultural experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Lake Biwa Boat Race Tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the excitement of Japanese boat racing and legal betting, all while enjoying the scenic beauty of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake.

Priced from $198.23 per person, the 4-hour tour begins and ends at Kyoto Station, with a group size of 2-4 people. Participants can enjoy the tour in either English or Japanese.

The tour features a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility in planning.

With a 5/5 rating from travelers, this tour offers an immersive and memorable experience.

Itinerary and Highlights

On the Lake Biwa Boat Race Tour, participants embark on a journey that begins with a 10-minute train ride from Kyoto Station to Otsu.

After a 15-minute shopping stop in Otsu, they board a bus for a 7-minute ride to the race venue.

The guided tour then takes them on a 2.83-hour walking tour, where they witness the splendor of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake, and experience the unique aspect of Kyoto’s sporting life – Japanese boat racing and wagering.

Finally, they return via bus and train, completing the 4-hour excursion.

Boat Racing and Wagering

Participants aged 20 and older can place bets on the boat races during the tour.

Led by Kenji, a veteran guide with 20 years of experience, the tour provides instructions on how to enjoy and wager on this unique Japanese sporting event.

The entry fee, which is included in the tour price, covers access to the race venue and a reserved seating area.

While the thrill of betting is part of the experience, the tour’s primary focus is on appreciating the grandeur of Lake Biwa and witnessing a captivating aspect of Kyoto’s sporting culture.

Guided Tour With Kenji

How does Kenji, the veteran guide, lead the tour of the Lake Biwa boat races? With 20 years of experience, Kenji provides a captivating and informative experience.

The tour includes:

1. A train ride from Kyoto Station to Otsu, followed by a brief shopping stop.

2. A bus or coach to the race venue, where Kenji guides visitors on a 2.83-hour walking tour.

3. Detailed instructions on enjoying the sport and placing bets, ensuring participants aged 20 and older can fully enjoy the excitement.

4. A return trip via bus, coach, and train, completing the 4-hour adventure.

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Entry Fee and Inclusions

The tour price includes the travel costs from Kyoto Station to the stadium and back, as well as a light meal and snacks from a supermarket in Otsu.

Plus, the entry fee and reserved seating are covered. However, any money or tickets used for betting aren’t included.

Participants aged 20 and older can place bets on the races, with guidance provided by Kenji, who’s 20 years of experience.

The tour doesn’t include insurance of any type.

Meeting Point and Recommendations

Travelers can find the meeting point near the big gate at JR Kyoto Station, where they’ll spot a LINNELLS backpack held by the guide.

For the tour, the following recommendations are advised:

1. Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the tour involves a guided tour on foot.
2. Bring any necessary medications, as the tour may not provide medical assistance.
3. Dress appropriately for the weather, as the boat race venue is outdoors.
4. Bring a small amount of cash for any additional purchases or betting during the event.

Customer Reviews

Numerous travelers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback on the Lake Biwa Boat Race Tour, awarding it an impressive overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars. Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s engaging itinerary, knowledgeable guide, and unique cultural experience.

Attribute	Rating
Overall Experience	5/5
Value for Money	5/5
Guide	5/5
Logistics	5/5
Recommendation	100%

The tour’s exceptional ratings demonstrate its ability to offer a memorable and immersive glimpse into the thrilling world of Japanese boat racing.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Customers can book the Lake Biwa Boat Race Tour conveniently online through the tour provider’s website.

The tour is priced at $198.23 per person and has a cancellation policy that offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour runs for 4 hours and accommodates groups of 2-4 people.

Languages offered are English and Japanese.

The key booking and cancellation details are:

1. $198.23 per person.
2. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
3. Group size of 2-4 people.
4. Available in English and Japanese.

FAQ

How Safe Is the Boat Racing and Wagering Experience?

The boat racing and wagering experience is considered safe, as it’s a legal and regulated form of betting overseen by the Japanese government. The guide provides instructions to help participants enjoy the sport responsibly.

Can Minors Participate in the Betting Activities?

Minors under the age of 20 are not permitted to participate in the betting activities during the boat racing event. The tour is only open to adults aged 20 and older who can legally place wagers.

What Is the Dress Code for the Event?

The tour organizers recommend wearing comfortable shoes for walking, as the guided tour involves some time on foot. There is no formal dress code, and participants can dress casually for the event.

Is Photography or Filming Allowed During the Tour?

Photography and filming are generally allowed during the tour, though visitors should be mindful of not disrupting the races or other participants. The tour guide can provide more specific guidance on appropriate photography practices at the event.

Can Guests Extend Their Stay or Customize the Itinerary?

Guests can’t extend their stay or customize the itinerary for this tour. The tour has a fixed 4-hour schedule and starting/ending location. Any changes would need to be arranged separately with the tour provider.

Sum Up

The Lake Biwa Boat Race Tour offers an immersive and engaging experience for visitors to explore Kyoto’s vibrant sporting culture. Led by an experienced guide, the tour includes a scenic train ride, a brief shopping stop, and a 2.83-hour walking tour at the race venue, where participants can learn about boat racing and place bets. The $198.23 per person entry fee covers all activities, making it a convenient and memorable way to discover this unique aspect of Japanese culture.

You can check if your dates are available here: