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Ōtsu

Otsu, Shiga, Japan

Escape the City Buzz: Discover the Tranquil Charm of Ōtsu, Japan Nestled on the southern shores of Lake Biwa, Ōtsu (Ōtsu, Shiga, Japan) offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, historical treasures, and serene spiri…

#Ōtsu#Shiga#Japan#Lake Biwa#Historic Sites
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Ōtsu.

Top Hotels in Ōtsu

Top Flights to Ōtsu

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Ōtsu.

Tours

Exploring Lake Biwa

Experience the beauty and tranquility of Japan's largest freshwater lake with a variety of activities, including sightseeing cruises, lakeside walks, and cycling paths.

Hieizan Enryakuji Temple Visit

Visit the historic and spiritual headquarter of Tendai Buddhism, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, situated on Mount Hiei.

Shopping

Otsu Port Aqua Terrace for a Leisure Stroll

A scenic port area perfect for a peaceful walk, offering beautiful views, restaurants, and shopping opportunities.

Outdoor

Outdoor Adventure at Biwako Valley

Enjoy thrilling outdoor activities including skiing in winter and hiking during summer at Biwako Valley, a popular resort area near Lake Biwa.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Ōtsu.

Currency
¥ | JPY | Japanese Yen
Population
information not available
Languages
Japanese, Japanese
Average weather
Ōtsu
Jan
cold
8°1°
Feb
cold
9°1°
Mar
cloud
13°4°
Apr
sun
18°9°
May
sun
23°14°
Jun
rain
26°19°
Jul
rain
30°23°
Aug
hot
32°24°
Sep
rain
28°20°
Oct
cloud
22°14°
Nov
cloud
16°8°
Dec
cold
11°3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Ōtsu.

What people love

Ōtsu, located in Shiga, Japan, offers a unique travel experience with its combination of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural attractions. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Ōtsu:

  1. Lake Biwa: Ōtsu is situated on the eastern shore of Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan. Visitors can enjoy various water activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming, as well as picturesque views of the surrounding mountains.

  2. Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine: This ancient Shinto shrine, located on the slopes of Mount Hiei, is a significant cultural and religious site in Ōtsu. Visitors can explore the beautiful architecture, serene gardens, and learn about the local traditions and rituals.

  3. Historical Sites: Ōtsu has a rich history dating back to the Heian period, and there are several historical sites to explore, including Ishiyama-dera Temple, where the famous Tale of Genji was written, and the Omi Jingu Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Tenji.

  4. Local Cuisine: Shiga Prefecture is known for its delicious food, including fresh seafood from Lake Biwa, Omi beef, and local specialties such as funazushi (fermented crucian carp) and saba-zushi (mackerel sushi). Ōtsu offers a variety of dining options to indulge in the regional cuisine.

  5. Accessibility: Ōtsu is conveniently located just a short train ride from Kyoto, making it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway destination for those visiting the Kansai region. The city is well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to explore the surrounding areas.

Overall, Ōtsu offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights, making it a rewarding destination for travelers looking to experience a different side of Japan.

Enjoy your trip to Ōtsu!

What to know

Traveling to Ōtsu, located in Shiga, Japan, may have some cons to consider:

  1. Limited English proficiency: As a less touristy destination compared to major cities like Tokyo or Kyoto, you may encounter fewer English speakers in Ōtsu. This could potentially pose challenges when seeking assistance or directions.

  2. Limited tourist infrastructure: Ōtsu may not have as extensive tourist infrastructure compared to more popular destinations in Japan. This could mean fewer accommodation options, limited English signage, and fewer tourist-centric services available.

  3. Limited international dining options: While you can still find delicious Japanese cuisine in Ōtsu, there may be fewer international dining options compared to larger cities. If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, it may be more challenging to find suitable restaurants.

  4. Transportation considerations: Depending on your travel plans, getting to and around Ōtsu may require more time and transfers compared to major cities with extensive transportation networks. This could potentially impact your overall travel schedule.

  5. Less bustling nightlife: If you're looking for a vibrant nightlife scene with bars, clubs, and entertainment options, Ōtsu may not offer as much variety as larger cities like Osaka or Tokyo. The nightlife in Ōtsu is likely to be quieter and more subdued.

Overall, while Ōtsu offers a more relaxed and authentic experience of Japanese culture, it may have some limitations in terms of convenience and amenities typically found in more touristy locations.

Ōtsu is a city located in Shiga Prefecture, Japan, and serves as its capital. It has a rich historical background and is known for its cultural and historical significance.

Historical Overview

  1. Ancient and Feudal Periods:

    • Ōtsu was historically significant as it was the location of the ancient capital of Japan during the Asuka period. The city was known as Ōmi-kyō when Emperor Tenji moved the capital there in 667 AD, though it was later moved back to the Nara region.
    • The area played a crucial role during the Heian period as it was a key point on the Tōkaidō, one of the main roads linking Kyoto with eastern Japan.

  2. Medieval and Edo Periods:

    • During the Sengoku period, Ōtsu was a strategic location due to its proximity to Kyoto and its position on Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake.
    • Ōtsu Castle was built in 1586 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a prominent daimyo who unified Japan. The castle played a role during the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600, which led to the establishment of the Tokugawa Shogunate.

  3. Meiji Era and Modern Period:

    • In the Meiji period, Ōtsu grew as a transportation hub with the development of railways and the modernization of Japan.
    • The city was the site of the Ōtsu Incident in 1891, where a Russian prince, Nicholas Alexandrovich (later Tsar Nicholas II), was attacked by a Japanese policeman. This incident brought international attention and was a diplomatic challenge for Japan.

Significant Historical Figures

  • Emperor Tenji: Moved the capital to Ōtsu and played an essential role in government reforms.
  • Toyotomi Hideyoshi: Constructed Ōtsu Castle and was a leading figure in Japan’s unification.

Important Landmarks

  1. Mii-dera Temple:

    • Also known as Onjō-ji, Mii-dera is one of the four largest temples in Japan and has significant historical importance. It was established in the 7th century and has beautiful architectural structures with a large collection of cultural properties.

  2. Lake Biwa:

    • The largest freshwater lake in Japan, it is an important natural landmark and provides scenic beauty and recreational activities.

  3. Enryaku-ji Temple:

    • Located on Mount Hiei, near Ōtsu, this temple is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was founded in the 8th century by Saichō, the founder of the Tendai sect of Buddhism in Japan.

  4. Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine:

    • A significant Shinto shrine in Ōtsu, known for its beautiful architecture and cultural festivals.

Modern Developments

  • Today, Ōtsu continues to be a vibrant city that blends historical heritage with modern living. It serves as a residential area for people working in nearby Kyoto and offers various cultural and natural attractions for tourists and residents alike.

Ōtsu's historical depth and cultural heritage make it a notable city in Japan's history, with influences that have shaped the nation's development over the centuries.