How Do You Spell LAKE BIWA?

Pronunciation: [lˈe͡ɪk bˈiːwə] (IPA)

Lake Biwa is the largest freshwater lake in Japan, and its name is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /leɪk ˈbiːwə/. The first syllable is pronounced with a long "a" sound, while the second syllable has a long "ee" sound followed by a schwa sound. The spelling of "Biwa" is derived from the Japanese characters for "loquat" and "ring," which relate to the shape of the lake. The proper spelling and pronunciation of Lake Biwa is important for those interested in Japanese geography and culture.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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LAKE BIWA Meaning and Definition

  1. Lake Biwa is a large freshwater lake located in the Shiga Prefecture in Japan. It is the largest lake in the country, covering an area of approximately 670 square kilometers. Lake Biwa is situated in the northeastern part of the Kinki region, and it is surrounded by several cities and towns, making it an important geographic and cultural landmark.

    The lake has a maximum depth of around 104 meters and is fed by various rivers and streams, including the Uji River and the Seta River. It also serves as the primary source of water for several municipalities in the region.

    Lake Biwa holds significant historical and cultural importance in Japan. It has been celebrated in literature, art, and music for centuries. The surrounding area features numerous attractions, including historic temples, shrines, and viewpoints that provide stunning vistas of the lake and its surroundings.

    Furthermore, Lake Biwa is renowned for its diverse ecosystem, boasting a rich variety of plant and animal species. The lake supports numerous fish species, including the endemic Biwa trout, and is a vital habitat for various waterfowl.

    Due to its natural beauty and ecological significance, Lake Biwa attracts numerous tourists and nature enthusiasts throughout the year. It offers a range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and birdwatching, making it a popular destination for both locals and international visitors. Overall, Lake Biwa is a natural treasure that plays a crucial role in the region's cultural heritage and environmental biodiversity.

Etymology of LAKE BIWA

The word "Lake Biwa" originates from the Japanese language. In Japanese, the lake is known as "Biwa-ko" (琵琶湖). The etymology of the word "Biwa" is not entirely clear, but one commonly suggested theory is that it originates from the similar-shaped Japanese musical instrument called "biwa", a short-necked lute-like instrument. The contours of the lake were said to resemble the shape of this traditional musical instrument, hence the name "Biwa-ko" was given to the lake. The term "ko" means "lake" in Japanese, so "Biwa-ko" translates to "Lake Biwa".