Lake, central Honshu , Japan.
It is Japan's largest lake, measuring 40 mi (64 km) long and 12 mi (19 km) wide, with an area of 260 sq mi (673 sq km). Its name refers to the musical instrument (see pipa ) that the lake resembles in shape. Its sole outlet, the Yodo River, flows from its southern tip to Ōsaka Bay. Lake Biwa is noted for its pearl culture industry. Its great scenic beauty, long a subject of Japanese poetry, makes it one of Japan's major tourist attractions.