Things to do in Otsu

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Otsu

Types of activities

Where to stay

Otsu travel guide

Lake Biwa Canal featuring a river or creek

Biwako Otsukan showing heritage elements

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What to do in Otsu

Popular places to visit

Biwako Valley Ski Resort

Hit the slopes in Otsu with a visit to Biwako Valley Ski Resort. Wander the lakeside or discover the hot springs in this relaxing area.

View of lake Biwa from the top of Mount Uchimi in Otsu city, Shiga prefecture, Japan

Biwako Valley

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Biwako Valley during your travels in Otsu. Wander the lakeside or discover the hot springs in this relaxing area.

Beautiful Panorama landscape southern west side of lake Biwa (Biwako) and cityscape of Otsu-shi from a mountain top of Hieizan

Mount Hiei

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Mount Hiei during your trip to Otsu. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the temples in this culturally rich area.

Enryakuji Temple

After visiting Enryakuji Temple, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Otsu. Visit the temples and top-notch restaurants in this culturally rich area.

Lake Biwa Canal

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Lake Biwa Canal during your travels in Otsu. Wander the lakeside or discover the hot springs in this relaxing area.

Ishiyamadera Temple

After visiting Ishiyamadera Temple, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Otsu. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

Biwako Otsukan

Enjoy an outing to Biwako Otsukan during your stay in Otsu. Amble around this culturally rich area's picturesque gardens and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Biwako Hall

You can make plans for a show at Biwako Hall on your trip to Otsu. Amble around this culturally rich area's picturesque gardens and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Mii-dera

You can find out about the history of Otsu with a visit to Mii-dera. Discover the top-notch restaurants and fascinating museums in this culturally rich area.

Areas of Otsu

Ogoto

While visiting Ogoto, you might make a stop by sights like Lake Biwa and Ogoto Onsen.

Katata

If you're spending some time in Katata, Lake Biwa and Biwako Quasi-National Park are top sights worth seeing.

Shimo-sakamoto

If you're spending some time in Shimo-sakamoto, Lake Biwa and Biwako Quasi-National Park are top sights worth seeing.

Heian Shrine which includes religious elements, heritage architecture and a temple or place of worship

Kyoto

Temple @ uji.
Uji is known as Green Tea City.

Uji

Kusatsu

Moriyama

Omihachiman

瀬戸内海を見晴らす　あじ竜王山公園から源平合戦由来の稲毛島、兜島、豊島ほか（香川県高松市庵治町）

Takashima

植物園、公園、屋内、温室、花壇、蓮、水蓮、蓮根、ロータス、蓮の花、レンコン、ロータス効果、蓮台、lotus、

Koka

People fishing near the stream while others enjoying the Cherry Blossom

Ujitawara

Frequently asked questions

Is Otsu worth visiting?

From retail therapy to outdoor adventures and history, there are many interesting things to do in Otsu. Make sure to discover the area's blend of cool sights, local charm and culture.

How do I spend a day in Otsu?

Biwako Valley Ski Resort and Ogoto Onsen are two good places to begin your adventures. Remember to check out the dining and shopping options in Otsu while you're here too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Otsu?

The top tourist attraction in Otsu is Mount Hiei, so don't forget to add it to your sightseeing agenda.

Is three days enough to stay in Otsu?

You can easily enjoy top sights like Mount Hiei, Ogoto Onsen and Lake Biwa Museum with a three-day trip to Otsu. On average, most travellers plan two days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so stay a little longer and check out Kyoto.

Is Otsu a walkable city?

Some key attractions in Otsu, like Ogoto Onsen and Lake Biwa Museum, are within walking distance. You can also explore several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Only 0.64 kilometres from the city centre of Otsu is Ogoto and Katata is 2 kilometres away.

What are some activities to do in Otsu with kids?

If you are after sights and activities for all of your group, here are some great ideas for what to do in Otsu with kids.

What to do in Otsu for adults?

Kusatsujuku Honjin and Roadside Station Biwako Ohashi Kome Plaza are just a couple of the things to do in Otsu. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.

Are there free things to do in Otsu?

In Otsu, Manohama Beach is an unmissable spot for anyone looking to see the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, check out the local neighbourhoods and parks, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a simple way to find out about the best free things to do in Otsu.