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Our top choices for Otsu hotels

1. Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs

Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs
Shimogyo Ward
United Kingdom
Kwai On
¥22,727
¥25,300 total
Oct 20 - Oct 21
Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs

2. Cross Hotel Kyoto

Cross Hotel Kyoto
Downtown Kyoto
United States
Dora
¥49,728
¥55,648 total
Oct 26 - Oct 27
Cross Hotel Kyoto

3. THE BLOSSOM KYOTO

THE BLOSSOM KYOTO
Shimogyo Ward
United States
Tom
¥44,131
¥48,813 total
Oct 25 - Oct 26
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO

4. Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto

Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto
Gion
United States
Bruna Maria
¥36,899
¥41,730 total
Oct 30 - Oct 31
Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto

5. Kyoto Brighton Hotel

Kyoto Brighton Hotel
Central Kyoto
United States
Manish
¥29,730
¥33,228 total
Oct 19 - Oct 20
Kyoto Brighton Hotel

6. Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo

Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
Downtown Kyoto
Australia
Arti
¥20,748
¥23,028 total
Oct 18 - Oct 19
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo

7. The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo

The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
Downtown Kyoto
United States
Jennifer
¥20,373
¥26,364 total
Oct 25 - Oct 26
The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo

8. Yumotokan

Yumotokan
Noka
United Kingdom
Heba
¥42,205
¥46,725 total
Oct 27 - Oct 28
Yumotokan

9. Hilton Kyoto

Hilton Kyoto
Downtown Kyoto
United States
Sonya
¥45,188
¥58,168 total
Nov 12 - Nov 13
Hilton Kyoto

10. Biwako Ryokusuitei

Biwako Ryokusuitei
Ogoto
United States
Crystal
¥37,882
¥42,212 total
Nov 5 - Nov 6
Biwako Ryokusuitei

11. Hotel Musse Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi Meitetsu

Hotel Musse Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi Meitetsu
Downtown Kyoto
United States
Josy
¥24,874
¥27,361 total
Oct 26 - Oct 27
Hotel Musse Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi Meitetsu

12. Kyoto Ohara Ryokan Seryo

Kyoto Ohara Ryokan Seryo
Sakyo Ward
United States
Yini
¥73,029
¥81,628 total
Oct 23 - Oct 24
Kyoto Ohara Ryokan Seryo

13. Biwako Grand Hotel

Biwako Grand Hotel
Ogoto
United States
Christa
¥28,915
¥32,107 total
Oct 28 - Oct 29
Biwako Grand Hotel

14. Satoyu Mukashibanashi Yuzanso Ryokan

Satoyu Mukashibanashi Yuzanso Ryokan
Ogoto
Canada
Paxton
¥29,642
¥33,182 total
Oct 27 - Oct 28
Satoyu Mukashibanashi Yuzanso Ryokan

15. Good Nature Hotel Kyoto

Good Nature Hotel Kyoto
Shimogyo Ward
United Kingdom
Medha
¥72,046
¥79,251 total
Oct 19 - Oct 20
Good Nature Hotel Kyoto

16. Biwako Hanakaido

Biwako Hanakaido
Ogoto
United States
Alex
¥56,960
¥63,660 total
Nov 3 - Nov 4
Biwako Hanakaido

17. Dantoukan Kikunoya

Dantoukan Kikunoya
Ogoto
Japan
NAOMI
¥34,364
¥38,355 total
Oct 26 - Oct 27
Dantoukan Kikunoya

18. The Westin Miyako Kyoto

The Westin Miyako Kyoto
Higashiyama Ward
United States
Christopher
¥66,000
¥83,790 total
Oct 27 - Oct 28
The Westin Miyako Kyoto

19. Oakwood Hotel Oike Kyoto

Oakwood Hotel Oike Kyoto
Downtown Kyoto
Canada
Paulo Victor
¥21,850
¥24,035 total
Nov 10 - Nov 11
Oakwood Hotel Oike Kyoto

20. Dhawa Yura Kyoto

Dhawa Yura Kyoto
Higashiyama Ward
Canada
Liam
¥52,292
¥64,999 total
Nov 8 - Nov 9
Dhawa Yura Kyoto
View all properties

Vacation Rentals in Otsu

Apartment

Minn Gion

Minn Gion
Gion
"Great location, close to restaurants and train station"
Minn Gion
Vacation Home

Machiya Maya Gion

Machiya Maya Gion
Gion
"Perfect base for which to explore Kyoto. Easy walk around Gion areas. Great rooms, kitchenette and lounge. Perfect for families."
Machiya Maya Gion
Aparthotel

Gion Hanna STAY

Gion Hanna STAY
Higashiyama Ward
"It was nice but a little on the smaller side. The front desk people were very nice and tried there best to help."
Gion Hanna STAY
Apartment

Randor Residence Kyoto Nijo Castle

Randor Residence Kyoto Nijo Castle
Central Kyoto
"Perfect stay for a family of 4"
Randor Residence Kyoto Nijo Castle
Pension

RESI STAY YASAKA

RESI STAY YASAKA
Gion
"Nice place!!!"
RESI STAY YASAKA
Aparthotel

KOKO HOTEL Residence Kyoto Nijo Castle

KOKO HOTEL Residence Kyoto Nijo Castle
Central Kyoto
"Great hotel!"
KOKO HOTEL Residence Kyoto Nijo Castle
Aparthotel

GOZAN HOTEL & SERVICED APARTMENT Higashiyama Sanjo

GOZAN HOTEL & SERVICED APARTMENT Higashiyama Sanjo
Higashiyama Ward
"spacious rooms and very clean and cozy"
GOZAN HOTEL & SERVICED APARTMENT Higashiyama Sanjo
Aparthotel

Kyototabisou Kasumi

Kyototabisou Kasumi
Higashiyama Ward
"The staff at the front desk was very helpful. We love being able to cook some eggs and toast for breakfast a few days because we had pots and pans that we could use. The location is close to a station which makes things easy. We loved the quiet neighborhood and the fact that we could easily walk to some neighborhood grocery stores when we needed things. There are also convenience stores and pharmacies nearby. Great little spot."
Kyototabisou Kasumi
Vacation Home

THE KAGAYA KYOTO toji

THE KAGAYA KYOTO toji
Minami Ward
"This accommodation was exactly as advertised. It was perfect for 4 travelers, was comfortable and very quiet! Location was good as well, within walking distance of Toji Temple, restaurants, and the JR line."
THE KAGAYA KYOTO toji
Aparthotel

Randor Residential Hotel Kyoto Suites

Randor Residential Hotel Kyoto Suites
Minami Ward
"Our travel plans changed suddenly and were in a need of a last minute stay. Great location at a great price."
Randor Residential Hotel Kyoto Suites
Apartment

Minn Kiyomizu Gojo

Minn Kiyomizu Gojo
Gion
"It has a washer/dryer combo in bathroom. Lovely view. Small table. Everything so clean. Great atmosphere. Would stay again."
Minn Kiyomizu Gojo
Vacation Home

Kyokoi Chikurintei

Kyokoi Chikurintei
Gion
"What a great place to stay in Kyoto! So close to Gion, pontocho alley and many other attractions. The house was very clean and check in and out was very easy. The host is very communicative as well. We absolutely loved it."
Kyokoi Chikurintei
Aparthotel

Minn Kawaramachi Gojo Riverside

Minn Kawaramachi Gojo Riverside
Gion
"Love this place! Quiet and room was bigger than the other hotel we stayed at"
Minn Kawaramachi Gojo Riverside
Aparthotel

MONday Apart Premium Kyoto Sta. Kamogawa

MONday Apart Premium Kyoto Sta. Kamogawa
Shimogyo Ward
"Excellent places to stay"
MONday Apart Premium Kyoto Sta. Kamogawa
Vacation Home

Kyoto Machiya Fukune

Kyoto Machiya Fukune
Downtown Kyoto
"Excellent stay! Beautiful authentic Japanese house… well located!"
Kyoto Machiya Fukune
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Where to stay in Otsu

Find the best Otsu areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.Learn more about Otsu
Learn more about Otsu

Ogoto

If you're spending some time in Ogoto, Ogoto Onsen and Lake Biwa are top sights worth seeing.

Chuo

If you're spending some time in Chuo, Lake Biwa and Otsu Festival Hikiyama Exhibition Pavilion are top sights worth seeing.

Noka

If you're spending some time in Noka, Ogoto Onsen and Lake Biwa are top sights worth seeing.

Ogaya

While there might not be top attractions in Ogaya, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Aeon Mall Kusatsu and Yabasekihan Island Park.

Asahigaoka

Though Asahigaoka might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Biwako Hall and Otsu Port.

Stay near popular Otsu attractions

A mountainous landscape with a lake, forested hills, and a clear blue sky.

Mount Hiei

8.4/10 (47 reviews)
You can spend time exploring the galleries in Mount Hiei in Otsu. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the temples in this culturally rich area.
See properties
A cable car moving over a mountainous landscape with a view of a valley and a body of water.

Biwako Valley Ski Resort

8.4/10 (66 reviews)
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.
See properties
A person standing on a wooden deck overlooking a body of water and distant mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

Biwako Valley

9.0/10 (46 reviews)
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 culturally rich area.
See properties
A canal flanked by lush greenery and a red bridge.

Lake Biwa Canal

8.6/10 (14 reviews)
After visiting Lake Biwa Canal, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Kyoto. Make some time to visit the shops while you're in the area.
See properties
A traditional wooden pagoda surrounded by lush greenery.

Enryakuji Temple

8.6/10 (42 reviews)
After visiting Enryakuji Temple, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Otsu. Check out the temples and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
See properties
A traditional Japanese building with a symmetrical design, featuring two main towers and a central entrance.

Biwako Otsukan

8.0/10 (11 reviews)
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.
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Ogoto Onsen

8.4/10 (25 reviews)
You can take time to visit Ogoto Onsen during your travels to Otsu. Wander the lakeside or discover the hot springs in this relaxing area.
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Hiei-zan & Enryaku-ji

9.2/10 (5 reviews)
Find out about the history of Otsu when you spend time at Hiei-zan & Enryaku-ji. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
See properties

Learn more about Otsu

Hike the forested paths of Mount Hiei to reach Enryaku-ji Temple, where Buddhist monks have practiced meditation for centuries. Explore Miidera Temple's historic buildings and climb to its bell tower for spectacular views across Lake Biwa.

See all hotels in Otsu
A traditional Chinese pavilion with a tiled roof, situated on a stone bridge over water, with mountains in the background.

Top Otsu Hotel Reviews

RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto

RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto

10/10 Excellent
"This is a lovely hotel, very well maintained. The room was big and met all our needs. I would recommend this hotel to anyone."
Mark 1-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO

THE BLOSSOM KYOTO

10/10 Excellent
"Spacious rooms, great location."
Nicolas 4-night trip
Posted 12 hours ago
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO
Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto

Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto

10/10 Excellent
"The rooms were spacious, clean and comfortable. We loved the rooftop restaurant and bar. The coffee shop and bakery were wonderful in the morning. Staff were terrific and helped us book a car and driver for a day sightseeing."
Seonag 4-night trip
Posted 12 hours ago
Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto
Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs

Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs

8/10 Good
"There are lots of amenities here -like the public bath and the big fancy breakfast- but assume you will need to compete for every resource, from a breakfast table to a shoe locker. The lobby felt like a combination of a college dorm and an airport gate. Things are generally good in your room, and all supplies were in order. Walls are thin enough I was woken up by my neighbor’s alarm every morning. Breakfast waits at 6:45 AM were about 45 minutes. I spilled some hand wash soap on the area in front of the sink and learned that the floor was not nearly as clean as it appeared."
Barbara 7-night trip
Posted 19 hours ago
Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo

Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo

8/10 Good
"Good property. Excellent breakfast. Good shopping and easy access to public transport."
Lynda 2-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo

Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo

8/10 Good
"Hotel in great location, across from the train station. Room is very clean and spacious with all amenities needed. Staff are very friendly and helpful. Highly recommended this hotel."
Son 6-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo
Yumotokan

Yumotokan

10/10 Excellent
"Fasntastic place to relax at. We were picked up at the train station and ushured into a relaxing lounge which we had unlimited access to for the duration of our stay, including the drinks and snacks, The check in process was very smooth and our bags were waiting for us in our room when we got there. We booked the in-room Onsen that we practically lived in. It was initially a bit hot for our liking but the staff were able to adjust it for us. We had an amazing nine course dinner that showcased the local produce. and the breakfast buffet was also briliant. Overall a very relaxing and comfortable stay with fantastic staff and would definitely come back."
Herbert 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Yumotokan
Satoyu Mukashibanashi Yuzanso Ryokan

Satoyu Mukashibanashi Yuzanso Ryokan

10/10 Excellent
"Great food and beautiful location"
Paxton 2-night trip
Posted 10 days ago
Satoyu Mukashibanashi Yuzanso Ryokan
Biwako Ryokusuitei

Biwako Ryokusuitei

10/10 Excellent
"My family of 3 had a wonderful time and our 8 year old was delighted with the baths, the kid dinner and buffet. Our only complaint was the dinner restaurant happened to have a lot of loudly screaming children which diminished the experience a bit."
Crystal 1-night trip
Posted 10 days ago
Biwako Ryokusuitei

More cheap stays in Otsu

The Pocket Hotel Kyoto-karasumagojo

The Pocket Hotel Kyoto-karasumagojo

423 Matsuyacho Shimogyo-ku Kyoto Kyoto Prefecture
¥8,924
¥10,218 total
Oct 18 - Oct 19
9.2/10 Wonderful! (566 reviews)
The Pocket Hotel Kyoto-karasumagojo
Agora Place Kyoto Nijo

Agora Place Kyoto Nijo

25 Marutamachi, Nakagyo-ku Kyoto Kyoto
¥10,009
¥11,134 total
Oct 18 - Oct 19
9/10 Wonderful! (57 reviews)
Agora Place Kyoto Nijo
Sakura Terrace The Atelier

Sakura Terrace The Atelier

1-1, Higashikujo, Kitakarasuma-cho Kyoto Kyoto
¥11,047
¥12,245 total
Oct 25 - Oct 26
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,002 reviews)
Sakura Terrace The Atelier
Smile Hotel Kyoto karasumagojo

Smile Hotel Kyoto karasumagojo

396-3 Osakacho Kyoto Kyoto
¥12,591
¥13,990 total
Oct 25 - Oct 26
8.2/10 Very Good! (480 reviews)
Smile Hotel Kyoto karasumagojo
The Millennials Kyoto

The Millennials Kyoto

235 Yamazakicho, Nakagyo-ku Kyoto Kyoto
¥14,769
¥16,324 total
Oct 19 - Oct 20
9.4/10 Exceptional! (749 reviews)
The Millennials Kyoto
Tsukimi Hotel

Tsukimi Hotel

21 Tsukimicho Kyoto Kyoto
Get rates
9/10 Wonderful! (189 reviews)
Tsukimi Hotel

Hotels in Otsu with star-rating

Find out more about Otsu

Top reasons to visit Otsu

  • Stunning Lake Biwa: Enjoy the picturesque views and recreational activities at Japan's largest freshwater lake, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
  • Rich Cultural Temples: Discover Otsu's beautiful temples and shrines, which showcase the region's deep cultural heritage.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Experience a variety of outdoor activities, from scenic hikes to beach outings along Lake Biwa.
  • Welcoming Accommodations: Enjoy diverse lodging options, including hot spring-themed stays that cater to all travelers.
  • Friendly Neighborhoods: Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of Otsu's inviting communities, perfect for family-friendly experiences.

Find great hotels near Otsu

Explore a variety of hotel accommodations in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, where you can find welcoming options for LGBTQIA travelers and families alike. Experience the unique charm of hot spring-themed stays while enjoying the stunning views of Lake Biwa. Whether you're searching for a cozy guesthouse or a comfortable hotel, Otsu offers diverse lodging options to suit every traveler's needs.

  • Cross Hotel Kyoto: Nestled approximately 16km from Otsu, Cross Hotel Kyoto is a 3.5-star eco-certified hotel that caters to environmentally conscious travelers. With a remarkable guest rating of 9.6 out of 10, this hotel emphasizes sustainable living without compromising comfort. The modern design reflects a harmonious blend of style and eco-friendliness. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities that promote relaxation and well-being, making it a suitable choice for those seeking an eco-friendly vacation experience.
  • The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo: This 4-star hotel, located about 16km from Otsu, boasts a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. A highlight of The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo is its diverse dining options, including breakfast and dinner services, ensuring guests can indulge in delightful meals. For entertainment, the hotel features multiple television options, including flat-screen and digital TVs. The hotel's prime location also provides easy access to the vibrant city center, making it an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore Kyoto’s rich cultural offerings.
  • Hotel Gran Ms Kyoto: Situated in the heart of the city and approximately 16km from Otsu, Hotel Gran Ms Kyoto is a stylish 3.5-star accommodation with a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This hotel embraces a city-themed experience, providing easy access to local attractions, eateries, and shops. Guests can expect comfortable and well-appointed rooms that reflect the urban essence of Kyoto. Its central location makes it ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in the bustling atmosphere of the city.

Where to stay in and around Otsu

Otsu, located in Shiga Prefecture, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and romantic scenery. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches along Lake Biwa, immerse themselves in the local culture, and enjoy the warm hospitality of friendly neighborhoods. Nearby attractions like Inase provide a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for families or budget travelers seeking a memorable experience. Whether you're after luxury or a peaceful retreat, Otsu has something for everyone.

  • Kyoto: A vibrant metropolis located 16km from Otsu, Kyoto is a treasure trove of cultural heritage and modern attractions. Travelers flock to this city year-round, with peak visits in April and the autumn months of October to November. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly outing, a city-themed adventure, or a business trip, Kyoto has something for everyone. Explore bustling shopping districts, local markets, and public spaces, or visit renowned landmarks such as historic temples and theme parks. For a unique experience, don't miss the chance to relax in an onsen and soak in the city's rich history.
  • Moriyama: Situated just 5km from Otsu, Moriyama is a charming city that offers stunning outdoor scenery and romantic escapes. With consistent visitor numbers, peak seasons occur in March through April and during the summer in July. This city is perfect for travelers looking to enjoy outdoor activities. Popular venues include body treatment centers, ski resorts, and ski fields, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Explore the nearby lake, indulge in a relaxing onsen experience, or take in the scenic beauty that Moriyama has to offer.
  • Ogoto: Nestled in the vicinity of Otsu, Ogoto is a picturesque neighborhood that attracts visitors year-round, particularly peaking in February, July, and September. Travelers come here for wellness retreats, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Enjoy activities such as body treatments or skiing at the local ski resort and lift. With its proximity to tranquil onsens, hotsprings, and serene lakes, Ogoto provides a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration for those seeking a rejuvenating getaway.

Things to do near Otsu

Shopping

In Otsu, visit the Otsu Matsuri Market for local crafts and delicious street food. If you're up for a drive, check out the Aeon Mall Otsu, located about 19km away, featuring a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options for a fun day out.

Recreation

Yamamoto Onsen offers a tranquil atmosphere with natural hot springs that soothe the body and mind. Enjoy rejuvenating treatments and traditional Japanese hospitality in a scenic setting. Nearby, Lake Biwa provides opportunities for leisurely boat rides and peaceful lakeside walks, enhancing your wellness retreat experience.

Adventure

Experience breathtaking views at the Mt. Hachiman Castle Ruins Lift, located 18km from Otsu. This cable car ride offers a thrilling ascent through scenic landscapes. For another adventure, visit the Mt. Otokoyama Cable Car, situated 31km away, where family-friendly fun meets stunning vistas.

Nightlife

In Otsu, the lively nightlife scene features cozy izakayas and vibrant karaoke bars, offering a taste of local culture. The waterfront area is dotted with bars and restaurants, providing a scenic backdrop for evening strolls and socializing over drinks and delicious food.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Otsu

To save money during your visit to Otsu, consider traveling in January to February or September, when hotel prices are lower. Book your accommodations about a month in advance for the best rates, and check Expedia for last-minute deals. Tuesday is the least expensive day to stay, while Saturday is the most costly. Explore the city on foot or utilize affordable public transport. Look for free activities, such as local parks and temples, to enhance your experience without breaking the bank. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities through an Expedia package can also yield significant savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Otsu are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Otsu is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Otsu is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Otsu is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Otsu hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Otsu

Otsu, located in Shiga Prefecture, offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and romantic scenery, making it an ideal vacation spot. Visitors can explore beautiful temples, shrines, and art museums, while also enjoying family-friendly experiences. Don't miss a visit to Otsu Harbor and the stunning Lake Biwa, which provide plenty of opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Whether you're seeking culture or adventure, Otsu has something for everyone.

  • Mount Hiei: This majestic mountain offers a cultural experience with stunning views and serene hiking trails. The area is rich in history and provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city, making it ideal for nature lovers and those seeking inspiration.
  • Enryakuji Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Enryakuji Temple is a significant center of Japanese Buddhism. Visitors can explore its ancient structures, which are nestled in a lush forest, and immerse themselves in the spiritual atmosphere that permeates the surroundings.
  • Ogoto Onsen: Renowned for its natural hot springs, Ogoto Onsen offers a relaxing retreat. Enjoy outdoor bathing with scenic views, and indulge in wellness treatments that rejuvenate both body and mind.

Best time to go to Otsu

The best time to visit Otsu can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Otsu falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Otsu falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January37.6°F (3.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February39.2°F (4.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March45.9°F (7.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May63.9°F (17.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.5°F (21.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July78.1°F (25.6°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
August80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September73.0°F (22.8°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
October62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
December42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Otsu

Traveling to Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, is convenient with access to several major airports. Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX) is located 95km away, with nearby hotels like Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, just 161m from the terminal. Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) is 87km away, featuring options such as Centrair Hotel, a mere 161m from the airport. Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) is only 55km from Otsu, with luxurious accommodations like Swissotel Nankai Osaka, 14km from the airport. Each hotel offers transportation services for easy access to their respective airports, ensuring a smooth travel experience.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best place for a stay in Otsu?
Based on our traveler data, Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel is one of the top choices for your stay. This hotel is a short 5-minute walk from Lake Biwa, and it offers a golf course and 4 restaurants. Other good options for your stay include Smile Hotel Otsu Seta and Yumotokan. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Otsu.
What's the top vacation rental that Otsu has to offer?
KINOTOMI OMIMAIKO - Self Check-In Only: Visitors give good reviews to this Otsu vacation home rental, which is located in a rural location and has a private balcony, a barbecue grill, and air-conditioning to put you at ease in your new surroundings. Kitchen amenities include a full-sized fridge, a dishwasher, and a stovetop. Other favorite homes for rent in Otsu are KALEIDO | A Timeless Japanese Stay Just 10 Minutes from Kyoto and Welcome to our Cozy 78 sqm Hiei Mt. House!. See all vacation rentals in Otsu.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Otsu, will I receive a refund?
Yes! You'll find that most room reservations are fully refundable if you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline, which in most cases is within 24 or 48 hours of check in. If your reservation is non-refundable, you might be able to still cancel and receive a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Otsu.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip to Otsu?
To access more information about updating your trip to Otsu or cancelling it, click here.
What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Otsu?
Based on our traveler reviews, Youth Hostel WANIHIMA~Lakeside BIWA is a top choice for a less expensive stay. Another top choice for your stay on the cheap is J-Hoppers Lake Biwa Guesthouse - Hostel. View all budget hotels in Otsu.
What's the best LGBTQ-friendly accommodation in Otsu?
Smile Hotel Otsu Seta is a top LGBTQ-friendly hotel, and features free WiFi and free internet. Koke Musu inn is another good choice for your stay. See all available hotels listed as LGBTQ-friendly in Otsu.
What's the best pet-friendly hotel in Otsu?
Biwako Mastunoura Bettei is a top dog-friendly ryokan, and offers a restaurant along with private hot tubs for its human guests. See more pet-friendly hotel accommodations in Otsu.
Where is the best place to stay close to Biwako Valley Ski Resort?
Biwako Mastunoura Bettei is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveler data, and this 3-star ryokan offers free breakfast and a restaurant. It's located 1.5 mi (2.4 km) from Biwako Valley Ski Resort. Other good options within 5 miles include Biwako Hira Hotel and The Gran Resort Ohmimaiko.
What about the best place to stay near Biwako Hall?
One of the top choices for your stay is Hotel Piazza Biwako, located next to Biwako Hall, and this 3.5-star hotel offers free WiFi and parking. Biwako Hotel and Inn where you can prepare and wash your own meals / Otsu Shiga are a couple of other good options close by.
What's the best accommodation for a beach vacation in Otsu?
View Lodge Biwa is a top beach hotel with free WiFi and free parking, and it's located on Manohama Beach. Youth Hostel WANIHIMA~Lakeside BIWA is another good option to stay near the beach. See more stays near the beach in Otsu.
What are some accommodations with pools in Otsu?
Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel: Hotel, 5-minute walk from Lake Biwa. Features a children's pool, a seasonal outdoor pool, and 4 restaurants. Satoyu Mukashibanashi Yuzanso Ryokan and Biwako Hotel are two additional hotels with an onsite pool. View all hotels with pools in Otsu.
What is the best spa hotel in Otsu?
Yumotokan is a top spa hotel with 65 rooms, free WiFi, and an arcade/game room. Spend an afternoon at the spa where you'll find massage treatments. Other popular spa hotels in Otsu include Biwako Ryokusuitei and Ogoto Onsen Yunoyado Komolebi. See all spa hotels in Otsu.
What is the best hotel near Kansai International Airport (KIX)?
Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport is a popular 4-star hotel featuring 4 restaurants and free WiFi. It's located a short 0.1 mi (0.2 km) from Kansai Intl. Airport. Another good choice close to the airport is First Cabin Kansai-Airport, located just 0.1 mi (0.2 km) away.
How is it to stay in Otsu?
Visitors to Otsu are sure to enjoy the lakeside setting and hot springs. Tourists can also enjoy so much more including its temples. In Otsu, there are 66 hotels and other accommodations to choose from. Find out more about Otsu.
What is there to see in Otsu?
Cultural venues include Mount Hiei, Biwako Hall, and Otsu City Science Museum. Attractions like Biwako Otsukan and Hiratopia are fun for everyone. Landmarks like Hiei-zan & Enryaku-ji, Enryakuji Temple, and Mii-dera might be worth a visit. Check out what more to see and do in Expedia's Otsu guide.
What's the best way to get around Otsu?
If you'd like to explore more of the area, ride aboard a train from Ogotoonsen station, Biwako-Hamaotsu Station, or Kamisakaemachi Station. If you want to venture out around the area, you may want a rental car in Otsu for your journey.
What's the weather like in Otsu?
The hottest months are usually August and July with an average temp of 75°F, while the coldest months are January and February with an average of 41°F. The rainiest months in Otsu are July, September, June, and August, with each month seeing an average of 9 inches of rainfall.

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