IMO 8948636

Biwako Floating School (びわ湖フローティングスクール) is an educational project run by Shiga Prefecture, Japan, since 1983. The project involves running an educational cruise program in which fifth graders living in Shiga Prefecture board a ship for educational purpose Uminoko for a two-day, one-night cruise on Biwako, or Lake Biwa. Uminoko carries approximately 160 children per voyage, making 90 voyages per year and carrying 15,000 people each year. Biwako Floating School also refers to this ship. The purpose of Biwako Floating School project is to help children deepen their understanding of the environment of Lake Biwa and their local area, and to have the children live together on the ship. Participating pupils said they were satisfied with completing the tasks assigned to them, collaborating with their friends, and learning. Teachers who boarded with pupils commented that the project was an inspiring experience for the children.