Things to do in Otsu

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Lake Biwa Canal featuring a river or creek
Biwako Otsukan showing heritage elements
Otsu which includes food
Lake Biwa showing a garden
Otsu which includes signage
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Most popular activities in Otsu

Tours & day trips

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Perfect Kyoto 1Day Bus Tour

Perfect Kyoto 1Day Bus Tour

Activity duration is 8 hours and 30 minutes
9.6 out of 10 with 153 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is ￥19,000 per adult
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Private & custom tours

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From Osaka/Kyoto: Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Lunch

From Osaka/Kyoto: Kyoto & Nara Day Trip with Lunch

Activity duration is 10 hours
9.4 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is ￥10,300 per adult
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Classes & workshops

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Kyoto: Tea Ceremony Meditation - Make Matcha with Tea Master

Kyoto: Tea Ceremony Meditation - Make Matcha with Tea Master

Activity duration is 45 minutes
Free cancellation available
Price is ￥6,510 per adult
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Adventure & outdoor

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Katsuo-ji, Atago Nenbutsu-ji & Arashiyama Hiking Tour

Katsuo-ji, Atago Nenbutsu-ji & Arashiyama Hiking Tour

Activity duration is 1 day
Price is ￥9,055 per traveler
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Shows & concerts

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Kyoto Gion Cultural Walk & Geisha Show with Dining Options

Kyoto Gion Cultural Walk & Geisha Show with Dining Options

Activity duration is 3 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is ￥17,800 per adult
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What to do in Otsu

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Otsu

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Ogoto

3/5(1 area review)

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

Ogoto
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Katata

While visiting Katata, you might make a stop by sights like Lake Biwa and Biwako Quasi-National Park.

Katata
大津
Photo by shikabane taro (CC BY)

Shimo-sakamoto

While visiting Shimo-sakamoto, you might make a stop by sights like Lake Biwa and Biwako Quasi-National Park.

Shimo-sakamoto

Popular day trips from Otsu

Heian Shrine showing a temple or place of worship, religious aspects and heritage architecture

Kyoto

Uji

Uji

Photo by Yasmin

Kusatsu

Moriyama

Moriyama

Photo by fukufuku_n

Omihachiman

Takashima

Takashima

Photo by Hsiao Cheng Wang

Koka

Photo "Ritto" by 椙元舟 (page does not exist) (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by 椙元舟 (page does not exist) (CC BY-SA)

Ritto

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 travelers 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 neighborhoods on foot. Only 0.64 kilometers from the city center of Otsu is Ogoto and Katata is 2 kilometers 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 neighborhoods 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.

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