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Best Things to Do
Popular Best Things to Do in Otsu [2025]
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Lake Biwa
4.5
/5
46 reviews
6.0
Based on 277 reviews
46.4 km from downtown
Phone +81775111530
Address: Lake Biwa, Shiga, Japan
Recommended sightseeing time: 3–5 hours
Highlights:
Explore Shiga's famous spots
Mount Hiei's Enryakuji Temple nearby
Saved by 114 users55% positive reviews
Verified user reviews
As the morning light pierces the mist over Lake Biwa, you'll understand why the Japanese consider it the "Lake of Life." As Japan's largest freshwater lake, its waters serve not only as a backup for Kyoto Prefecture but also as a living reservoir of cultural genealogy.
Hikone Castle, reflected in the mirror-like waters of the early morning, its 400-year-old castle tower blending with the shimmering waters to create a breathtaking spectacle. Take a pontoon boat to Takebushima Island, where the bronze torii gates gleam in the sunlight. The Tang-style architecture of Hogon-ji Temple speaks of its cultural ties to China's Tang Dynasty. The lakeside bike path is the perfect way to explore. The 70-kilometer route connects reed marshes, vineyards, and century-old shops. Passing through the white-walled earthenware buildings of Omi Hachiman Water Village, it's like stepping into an Edo-era ukiyo-e painting.
The gustatory memories are equally unforgettable. Omi beef sushi melts in your mouth, while sushi made with biwa catfish has a refreshing sweetness. The local wines from Lake Country Winery are even more mellow when savored against the setting sun. The most unforgettable moment was meeting a local elder on the lake's west beach. Pointing across the water, he said, "When I was a child, my father took me to those floating islands to pick mulberries. The water is still this clear."
The magic of Lake Biwa lies not only in its scenery but also in its living ecological epic. From the migratory birds of spring and autumn to the snowflakes of winter, the cycle of seasons showcases the wisdom of the symbiotic relationship between humanity and nature. When the last rays of sunlight cast a golden path across the lake, you will understand why these waters have nurtured the essence of Japanese traditions such as the tea ceremony and haiku—they teach us how to find eternal beauty in the balance between movement and stillness.
With their vastness and tranquility, these waters invite every visitor to find inner peace. Perhaps this is Lake Biwa's most moving travel gift.
this is one of the largest lakes in Japan and the scenery is very nice , the lakeside has cafe and for sightseeing you can take the cable car
Biwako Valley Ski Resort
4.7
/5
6 reviews
5.2
21.1 km from downtown
Phone +81775921155
Address: 1547-1 Kido, Otsu, Shiga 520-0514, Japan
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5–1 day
Achieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
Verified user reviews
The scenery had changed completely since I visited in the summer, and a world of silver spread out before me. The snow was of good quality, and it wasn't as crowded as the more famous ski resorts. I was able to ski while enjoying the wonderful scenery, and it became my favorite slope. The restaurant was open as usual.
There are always a lot of people there no matter when you go!
It's a great photo spot, but I've never been there on a sunny day, so I'd like to go😇
It's a little cold, so a jacket is a must!
You should definitely go there if you're traveling to Shiga!
If you go here, you'll know you've been to Shiga!!
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Former Chikurin-in Temple
4.3
/5
6 reviews
4.2
Based on 54 reviews
6.1 km from downtown
Phone +81775780955
Address: 5 Chome-2-13 Sakamoto, Otsu, Shiga 520-0113, Japan
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–2 hours
Highlights:
Zen gardens & monk retreat
Capture dreamy reflections photos
Verified user reviews
Rurikoin Temple is a good substitute, except that the transportation is not as convenient as Rurikoin Temple, the scenery is not worse than Rurikoin Temple, the courtyard is very quiet and you can take a walk. There were only 3 groups of guests in the morning! The most important thing is that the ticket is only 300, which is very cost-effective!
Once inside, you'll be greeted by a different world, with the garden moss growing beautifully all over, almost like a natural carpet.
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