Lake Biwa Boat Racing: Thrilling Aquatic Keirin

Experience the thrilling aquatic tradition of Biwako Boat Race in Japan. Bet on high-powered boats and watch exciting races on Lake Biwa. Legal and safe gambling with a guide’s 20 years of experience.

Duration: 4 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Boat Race Biwako - We’ll set out from Kyoto Station; stop at a special supermarket to pick up your choice of a light meal and drinks for our boat race picnic; travel to Lake Biwa in Shiga for the event; and return to Kyoto Station after the races.
    Duration: about 4 hours (We set out at 11:15am. The travel time on a JR train from Kyoto Station to…
What's Included
  • Entry fee and reserved seat at the races
  • Snacks
  • Train and bus tickets to and from the boat race stadium
What's Not Included
  • Money or tickets for betting
  • Insurance of any type
Additional Information

Japan’s renowned “Keirin racing,” now an Olympic event, is a bicycle race initially paced by a motorized vehicle. The boat races on Lake Biwa offer a similar experience on water, featuring high-powered, advanced speedboats instead of bicycles.
These races, held on the stunning “Biwako,” or Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake, promise an exhilarating…

Location
Kyoto Station
I'll be waiting for you near the big gate that says "JR Kyoto Station" at the main entrance to Kyoto station. You'll know me by my LINNELL'S backpack. I've included a photo of the meeting point -- which includes me and my big backpack -- in the photos above.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(2 Ratings)
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1 star
Excursion00169676343
Feb 9, 2024
Amazing Local Experience! - Thanks to Kenji, I had a fantastic time watching Japanese boat racing. As a big American sports fan who loves to go to sports stadiums in the United States, I was expecting the American 'ballpark' experience: overpriced food, crowded seating, and rowdy fans. Japanese boat racing stadiums reject each one of these three negatives about American sports. First, you're allowed to bring your own food and drinks into the stadium. Second, you can enjoy your meal at spacious tables with a pristine view of the stadium lake. Third, although the fans are very respectful, they are still enthusiastic about the races. Kenji enhanced the boat racing experience through his extensive knowledge of the sport. He knew the betting system in great detail, informing me how to incorporate the racing, driver, and stadium data to give me the best chance to win. Thanks to Kenji, I felt comfortable trying my odds against the house. If you are interested in the excitement of sports, immersing yourself in Japanese culture, and having a great time, I highly recommend booking this tour with Kenji.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
577rebeccaq
Feb 8, 2024
Very interesting Japanese Boat Race - I have traveled to Japan many times but have never thought of watching a Japanese boat race. Thank you to Kenji San for introducing me and my family to this wonderful and fun event. Even though I am normally not into any sports race, it was quite fun to watch all the boats racing against each other, especially since there were all women racing which was easier for me to relate to. I would highly recommend going for this fun event.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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December 2024
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