The renewed Café360 in Otsu City. (Courtesy of Biwako Valley)
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Biwako Valley, a leisure facility in Otsu City, is nestled in the Hira Mountains on the western shore of Lake Biwa. Its Café360 at Biwako Terrace has recently been renovated to offer even more breathtaking views.
Located about 70 meters (230 feet) above the popular Grand Terrace at Biwako Terrace THE MAIN, the renewed Café360 features stunning 360-degree panoramic scenery. The café officially reopens on July 5.
Biwako Terrace THE MAIN, situated near the ropeway summit station, first opened in 2016 with a café and observation deck. The following year, Café360 debuted on a different mountaintop, offering a more elevated perspective.
Open for All Seasons
Perched at the mountain's peak, Café360 is accessible by transferring to lifts from the ropeway summit station. Originally a summer-only destination, the facility was renovated in February 2025 to allow visitors to enjoy the snow-covered landscape in winter. It now operates year-round.
A soft launch began in April with the addition of café services. After the surrounding lawn had fully grown, the area was officially unveiled to the media ahead of its grand opening.
Café360 is built on a raised, diamond-shaped deck measuring 37.2 meters in diameter and 12.6 meters in width. The structure rises up to 6 meters above the ground, creating a floating sensation and a dramatic sense of openness — as if the lake is just a step away.
Treats with a View
An on-site trailer café serves popular treats like donuts, along with local specialties such as Omi tea, Japanese black tea, and regional craft beers.
"This area benefits from the unique geography of the Hira Mountains, which creates a natural wind tunnel and brings in a refreshing breeze," said a spokesperson. "You can stretch out in a hammock and relax while enjoying the cool mountain air."
To access the facility, visitors must purchase a pass that includes a round-trip ropeway ticket, unlimited lift rides, and admission to Biwako Terrace. Prices are ¥4,000 JPY (about $30 USD) for adults, ¥2,000 for elementary school students, and ¥1,000 for preschoolers.
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Author: The Sankei Shimbun
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