Otsu
1 tours available
Why Visit Otsu
Otsu is the capital of Shiga Prefecture and sits on the southwestern shore of Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake. Just ten minutes from Kyoto by train, Otsu offers a completely different atmosphere — wide lakeside promenades, forested temple grounds, and mountain views that feel worlds away from the crowds of its famous neighbour.
The city is home to Miidera (Onjoji), one of the great temples of the Tendai Buddhist tradition, whose hilltop bell tower commands sweeping views over Lake Biwa. The Otsu-e folk paintings, a 350-year-old tradition of bold, humorous images originally sold as traveler souvenirs along the old Tokaido highway, remain one of Japan's most distinctive folk art forms.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March – April) — Cherry blossoms line the Lake Biwa Canal and Miidera temple grounds. The lakefront is perfect for cycling and hanami picnics.
Summer (July – August) — Lake Biwa fireworks in August is one of Japan's most spectacular pyrotechnic displays, with over 10,000 fireworks reflected on the water.
Autumn (November) — Miidera and nearby Ishiyamadera temple are illuminated during evening foliage events, creating stunning reflections in temple ponds.
Insider Tips
- Take the Sakamoto Cable Car — Japan's longest cable railway — from Otsu up to Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei for panoramic Lake Biwa views.
- Try funazushi, a rare fermented sushi made with nigorobuna fish from Lake Biwa — it's the original form of sushi dating back over 1,000 years.
- Rent a bicycle at Otsu Station to ride along the Biwako Lakeside path, one of Japan's most scenic waterfront cycling routes.
- Visit Ishiyamadera, the temple where Murasaki Shikibu is said to have begun writing The Tale of Genji while gazing at the moon over Lake Biwa.
Tours Visiting Otsu
Refined Kansai Journey: Lake Biwa & Castles
A Premium Journey Through Shiga's Hidden Gems
Cruise Lake Biwa, visit National Treasure Hikone Castle, Uji, Fusimi Inari Shrine. 11-day luxury tour with private taxis and Green Car Shinkansen.
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Kansai
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Available Tours
1 tours