This autumn, the lakeside city of Omihachiman in Shiga Prefecture will once again transform into a living canvas as the BIWAKO Biennale returns for its 11th edition. Running from late September through mid-November, this international art festival brings together around 70 artists from Japan and abroad under the 2025 theme "Flux."
A celebration of impermanence and transformation, "Flux" is set to explore the passage of time and the enduring power of human creativity. Visitors can expect a striking blend of contemporary works set against centuries-old architecture and landscapes, creating a dialogue between past and present.
Spread across three distinct areas, the festival offers varied experiences:
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Omihachiman Old Town, home to Edo- and Meiji-era merchant houses, repurposed as immersive art spaces
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Chomyoji Temple, a historic site with panoramic views over Lake Biwa, hosting the Biennale for the first time
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Okishima, the only inhabited island on Lake Biwa, where art mingles with the rhythms of daily island life
The Biennale has long stood out for its use of vacant heritage buildings, revitalizing them through art while preserving the town's cultural identity. Installations range from large-scale sculptures to delicate textile pieces and interactive digital media.
For younger audiences, a special workshop will also take place on Okishima, inviting elementary school students to create art using local materials.
With Japan's cultural calendar booming in 2025 with events like the Osaka-Kansai Expo, BIWAKO Biennale offers a quieter, more intimate opportunity to engage with art in motion. If you do plan on attending, please note that a viewing passport grants access to the Omihachiman venues, while Chomyoji Temple and Okishima can be visited freely. If you're a returning visitor or new to Shiga, this is a rare chance to explore the region's soul through its art, history, and natural beauty.
