LAKE CAPITAL

OTSUJust steps from Kyoto

SHORT
TRIPS

7 ThemeswithBreathtaking Views
Seasonal Scenery
Visit Historic Sites
Seasonal Activities
Taste the Region
Artisan Crafted Souvenirs
Exclusive Stays

Sapporo

TAKE THE DIVE
Otsu

Just 9 minutes away from Kyoto, Otsu is the former capital of Japan and home to the country’s
largest lake, Lake Biwa. Later becoming known as the birthplace of Japanese Buddhism, as
well as an integral connection point for travelers between modern day Tokyo and Kyoto, Otsu

Kyoto
Osaka International Airport(Itami Airport)

has cultivated a rich history and diverse folk culture which has been preserved for hundredsof years. Centuries later, the endless blue of the mother lake continues to inspire and attract

Tokyo

Fukuoka

Nagoyavisitors to this day. Come and “take the dive” into stunning seasonal scenery, storied temples

Osakaand shrines, a thriving local food culture, and more at Japan’s lake capital, Otsu.
Kansai International
Airport

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Breathtaking Views

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Seasonal Scenery

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Visit Historic Sites

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Seasonal Activities

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Taste the Region

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Artisan Crafted Souvenirs

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Exclusive Stays

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Sample Itineraries

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1 /	Former Chikurin-in
Temple4 / Sakamoto Cable Car
A cable car ride of about 11 minutes
takes you to Hieizan Enryaku-ji
Temple, which is designated asa UNESCO World Heritage site.
Sakamoto Cable, built in 1927, is thelongest cable car in Japan at 2,025
meters. Sit back in the nostalgicseats and take in the view of Lake
Biwa from the windows.

This is a retreat of a former priest from
Enryaku-ji Temple. The garden, which
stretches to the southwest of the mainbuilding, is designated as a scenic
garden by the Japanese government.
The trees in the circuit-style garden,
which incorporate the pure water ofthe river, the immaculately manicured
moss and ever-changing scenery ofeach season offers a truly enchanting
escape.
ADD

ADD

5 -2-13 Sakamoto,
Otsu

PHONE

5

This temple was built during the
Heian period (794 - 1185) in thehope of keeping travelers safe as
they crossed the lake. Mangetsu-ji
Temple is called "Ukimido," meaning"Floating Hall," because it seems tofloat on the surface of the lake. It is
one of the Eight Views of Omi and its
beautiful scenery is a highlight of thearea. The view of Lake Biwa against
the blue sky, Ukimido on the surfaceof the lake, and the rising sun are not
to be missed.
Note: Omi is the historical name of
Shiga Prefecture.
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 -16-18 Honkatata,
Otsu

PHONE

077-572-0455

This canal was constructed in the
Meiji era (1868 - 1912) to carrywater from Lake Biwa to Kyoto.
With a history stemming back over ahundred years, traces of its Meiji era
past can still be found at this mellow
canal. This is also known as one of
the most famous cherry blossom
spots in Otsu, with mountain cherry
and Yoshino cherry trees blossomingin spring.

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“The Top of Otsu,” located on the
top floor of the Lake Biwa Otsu
Prince Hotel, is a banquet room thatoffers first-class seating with grandviews of Lake Biwa. The sceneryfrom nearly 130 meters high is agreat accompaniment to special
occasions.
ADD -7-7 Nionohama,
4
Otsu

PHONE

077-521-1111

OTSU

Breathtaking
Views

6 /	Shusodaishiden
Karamon Gate
at Saikyo-ji Temple

Natural scenic views withhistorical roots await you
around every corner.

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Legend has it that this temple, which
was the family temple of feudal
Japan warlord Akechi Mitsuhide,
was built by Asuka period (593 - 710)
politician Prince Shotoku for his
mentor. This is the head temple of
the Tendai Shinsei sect of Buddhism
with nearly 400 branch temples
nationwide, and the view of Lake
Biwa from the Shusodaishiden
Karamon Gate is gorgeous.
ADD -13-1 Sakamoto,
5
Otsu

PHONE

077-578-0013

M iideracho, Otsu

PHONE

4

077-578-0531(Hieizan Railway)

5 /	Panoramic views ofLake Biwa from Lake
Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel

3 / The Lake Biwa Canal

ADD

PHONE

077-578-0955

2 /	Ukimido(Mangetsu-ji Temple)

ADD 244 Sakamoto
4
Hommachi, Otsu

077-522-3830(Otsu Station
Tourist Information
Center)5

1 /	Cherry blossoms from
the Moon-Viewing Stageat Mii-dera Temple

5 /	Lake Biwa Great
Fireworks Festival
This festival is a summertime
tradition in Otsu and draws many
visitors each year. Nearly 10,000
fireworks are fired off from the lake,
illuminating the night sky in brilliant
colors.

This well-known cherry blossom
spot originates from the Manyoperiod (1,250 - 1,350 years ago).
The view of the cherry blossom trees
reflected on the moon-viewing stage
are truly breathtaking.

ADD

▶ P09
ADD

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 46 Onjojicho, Otsu

PHONE

PHONE

077-522-2238

2 /	Michigan Cruise Shipand Shibazakura
Flowers

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S p r i n g

PHONE077-524-5000(Reservation
center)2

3 /	Illuminated Autumn
Foliage at Saikyo-ji
TempleSaikyo-ji is known as the family
temple of Akechi Mitsuhide. The
illuminated autumn foliage offers
visitors enchanting, mysticalscenery.
▶ P05
ADD

5
 -13-1 Sakamoto,
Otsu

PHONE

The Otsu Festival held every Octoberis one of Otsu’s three main yearly
festivals, taking after the traditions of
the Gion Festival in Kyoto.
▶ P111
 -2-27 Chuo, Otsu

PHONE

6 /	Swimming at Omimaiko

ADD

Seasonal
Scenery

With each passing season having its
own distinct views to discover andexplore, there’s beauty to behold nomatter the time of year in Otsu.

 095
1
Minamikomatsu,
Otsu

PHONE

6
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7 /	Winter Scenery and
Skiing at Biwako Valley
A world of silvery-white spreads
out as far as the eye can see atthis mountaintop winter resort. The
panoramic views of Lake Biwa andexhilarating skiing are well worth avisit.

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A u t u m n

W i n t e r

▶ P15
ADD

1547-1 Kido, Otsu

PHONE

077-592-1155

077-525-0505(Otsumatsuri
Hikiyama Renmei)

8 /	Sanno Torii Gate in thesnow at Hiyoshi Taisha
ShrineThis is the head shrine of nearly
3,800 Hiyoshi, Hie, and Sanno
shrines across the country. The
contrasting colors of the vermillion
Sanno Torii gate rising up out of thepure white snow make for striking
scenery.
▶ P10
ADD -1-1 Sakamoto,
5
Otsu

PHONE

6

077-596-0033(Minamikomatsu
Neighborhood Association), 077596-0520 (Omimaiko Nakahama
Beach Office/July and August only)

077-578-0013

4 /	Otsu Festival

ADD

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OTSU

▶ P12
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 -1-1 Hamaotsu, Otsu

S u m m e r

077-511-1530(Biwako Visitors
Bureau)Kick back under the shade of the
nearby pine trees while taking in theviews of the Hira mountain range at
this crescent-shaped beach. Visitors
flock to this spot to cool off in theclear water of this freshwater lake.

The pink Shibazakura flowers
blossoming along the shore near the"Michigan" paddleboat cruising Lake
Biwa. This scene shows Nionohama
Harbor in the spring.

ADD ll across theAwater off Otsu Port
(Launching location)

077-578-0009

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OTSU

Visit Historic Sites

Step through the halls of time at Hieizan Enryaku-ji Temple,
which is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site,and other historic temples and shrines that dot the Otsu
landscape.

㆒ The Golden Hall rebuilt by Kita no Mandokoro, wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi
㆓ Great Gate of Onjo-ji Temple (Temple Guardian Gate)

Home to one of the Eight Views of Omi,the "Evening Bell of Mii"

Mii-dera Temple
Officially known as Nagarasan Onjo-ji Temple,
this is the head temple of the Tendaijimon sect of
Buddhism. It is home to many national treasuresand cultural assets, such as the Kannondo Hall.
Known for its evening bell, which is one of theEight Views of Omi, the temple is also home toa must-see cherry blossom viewing spot known
as the Kangetsu Butai (or “Moon-Viewing Stage”
in English). Because it was embroiled in conflict,and overcame dangers such as being set on fire,
it is also known as the Phoenix Temple.
ADD246 Onjojicho, Otsu

PHONE

077-522-2238

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Special Activity

Banish your delusions by taking part in the special training ofmountain monks known as "Yamabushi", a practice rooted inJapanese culture and traditions. While participating, you'll receive
instruction from a practicing monk and wear authentic Yamabushi
garments.

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㆒ Konpon Chudo Hall, the main

World Heritage site brimmingwith a sacred atmospherehall in the To-do area (east areaof the temple grounds)
㆓ Shakado Hall, the oldest
building at the temple

A temple of noble lineage connected to
the Imperial family

Hieizan Enryaku-ji Temple
This is the head temple of the Tendai sect of
Buddhism, and runs along the borders of Otsu andKyoto. Also called the mother temple of Japanese
Buddhism, many monks have trained here over theyears. To the east, the grand view of Lake Biwa
spreads across the land, and to the west, panoramic
views of the city of Kyoto. With 1,200 years ofhistory and tradition, Hieizan Enryaku-ji Temple wasregistered as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1994.
The temple grounds are packed with things to see
and do, such as a temple bell that visitors can ring
and a popular cafe. The temple cafe is known for its
Sanskrit latte and Sanskrit dessert set which are only
available on weekends and holidays.
ADD

4 220 Sakamoto Hommachi, Otsu

PHONE

8

077-578-0001
Ascetic training experience:
077-579-4180 (Enryakuji Kaikan)

Enman-in Temple

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Special Activity

Built in 987, this temple of the Tendai sectof Buddhism was run by nobles close to
the imperial lineage. The temple’s Shinden
Hall is designated as an important cultural
asset, and its expansive garden to thesouth is designated as a historic scenic
spot known as the Famous Garden of
Mii. Highlights on the temple grounds
include the changing seasonal scenery of
the garden, and a museum dedicated tothe traditional folk-art paintings known as“Otsu-e.” Visitors can also eat Buddhist
vegetarian cuisine at Yuyutei, the temple
restaurant.
ADD

33 Onjojicho, Otsu

PHONE

Overnight or dinner guests at Enryakuji Kaikan
may participate in ascetic monk training
practices such as Zen meditation and sutra
copying, which is said to bring good luck.
Advance reservations are required for Zen
meditation.

Special Activity

077-522-3690
Enman-in Temple offers a variety of Japanesecultural activities such as tosenkyo and Zen
meditation. Tosenkyo is a traditional game akinto darts that spread from Kyoto during the Edo
period, where players toss an open fan onto atarget known as a cho on a block.

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Where the legendary novelist Murasaki Shikibu
is said to have begun writing the Tale of Genji

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㆒ Statues of temple guardians on bothsides of the Great East Gate
㆓ Colorful seasonal flowers at the temple叅 Imposing wollastonite rocks and thetwo-storied pagoda

Ishiyama-dera Temple is located near the Seta
River in the foothills of Mount Garan. It is theheadquarters of the Shingon sect of Buddhism,
and well known as one of the Eight Views ofOmi, the autumn moon of Ishiyama. The temple
is also where Murasaki Shikibu found theinspiration for the Tale of Genji. It is home to the
Nyoirin Kannon, a hidden Buddhist statue thatis not shown to the public, and many cultural
assets including the main hall and a two-storied
pagoda, both of which are national treasures.
Known locally as the “Flower Temple,”
Ishiyama-dera is also home to a wide variety offlowers that bloom throughout the year such asplum blossoms, cherry blossoms, and azalea.
ADD

SpringSummerAutumnA springtime festival with beautiful cherry
blossoms and portable shrines

A summer festival commemoratinga legendary journey

A historic festival continued
for nearly 400 years

Sanno Festival

Noryo Senko Festival

Otsu Festival

The Sanno Festival at Hiyoshi Taisha
Shrine is a famous annual prayer for peaceand a bountiful harvest with a historyof over 1,200 years. This lively festival
features seven portables shrines thatare utilized in various rituals such as thebeautiful “Hanawatari-shiki” ritual, the“Uma no Shinji” ritual, and the “Yoimiyaotoshi Shinji” ritual.

This summer festival at Takebe Taisha
Shrine celebrates the legendary ocean
voyage of folk hero Yamato Takeru. The
Noryo Senko Festival pays homage to hisjourney by imagining that the Seta Riveris the ocean route he took, recreating
his journey by sending boats laden withportable shrines from the Seta side to the
Kurozu side of the river. Once this symbolic
journey is over, the festival concludes witha dazzling fireworks display at sunset.

The Otsu Festival is held each autumn at
Tenson Shrine, and is one of the city's
largest events. It is designated as animportant intangible folk property by
the Japanese government, and borrows
heavily from the traditions of the Gion
Festival. During the festival, thirteen floats
built during the Edo period make their
way through the city, each with their own
unique clockwork puppets.

1 -1-1 Ishiyamadera, Otsu

PHONE

2

The historic spring, summer, and autumn festivals held in Otsu
are known as the Three Great Otsu Festivals. In spring the Sanno
Festival is held at Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine, the Senko Festival is heldat Takebe Taisha Shrine in the summer, and the city comes to life
during the Otsu Festival in the autumn with its 13 traditional floats.

Three Great
Otsu Festivals

Ishiyama-dera Temple

077-537-0013

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A mecca for the traditional Japanese card
game karuta and home to the father of clocks

Omi Jingu Shrine

2

Omi Jingu Shrine enshrines Emperor Tenji,
who moved the capital of Japan to Otsu in 667.
Surrounded by vast forests, the grounds of theshrine are home to a vermillion-painted twostoried gate and a main building crafted in the
traditional Omi-style. Emperor Tenji was known
as the father of clocks after creating the firstwater clock in Japan, and on the grounds, you'll
find many water clocks, sundials, and a clockmuseum. The temple is also renowned as thehome of the card game karuta.
ADD1
 -1 Jingucho, Otsu

PHONE

077-522-3725

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㆒ The vivid, vermillion two-storied gate
㆓ The famous Hyakunin Isshu karuta
card game叅 Water Clock Festival held each June

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Famous autumn foliage spot surrounded byabundant nature

Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine

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㆒ The uniquely shaped Sanno Torii Gate
㆓ Masaru can be found at the four corners
under the eaves of the two-storied gate
at the West Main Shrine叅 Cute Masaru fortunes

This is the head shrine of nearly 3,800 Hiyoshi,Hie, and Sanno shrines across the country.
It is home to several buildings designated asimportant cultural assets such as the Westand East main shrines, and the grounds area notable autumn foliage spot. Masaru, theservants of the gods at the shrine, are famousas monkeys of good fortune because theirnames rhyme with the Japanese words foreliminating evil and winning.
ADD5 -1-1 Sakamoto, Otsu

PHONE

077-578-0009

ADD5-1-1 Sakamoto, Otsu

PHONE077-578-0009(Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine)ADD1-16-1 Jinryo, Otsu

PHONE

 77-545-0038
0(Takebe Taisha Shrine)ADD1-2-27 Chuo, Otsu

PHONE077-525-0505(Otsumatsuri Hikiyama Renmei)

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OTSU

Seasonal
Activities

From a refreshing day by the lake, to a thrilling skiing trip in thegreat outdoors, there’s always something to do no matter theseason in Otsu.

㆒ Rafting on the Seta River offers an exciting adventure㆓E xperience the thrill of tubing叅 Don't be afraid to try river bugging on your own
4 Barbecue some meat and veggies for a tasty lunch
5 Head out to Ukimido on a stand-up paddleboard
6T ake in the views of the Hira mountains

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SummerBoard Biwako Kisen’s "Michigan," and take in the country’s
largest lake with a relaxing cruise around Lake Biwa. Whether you
choose to enjoy meals, drinks, and live music performances inside
the ship, or explore the exterior cruise deck and photo spots,
there are many ways to spend your time on the paddleboat as it
makes its way around the south side of the lake. The spectacularpanoramic views and refreshing breezes off Lake Biwa are not tobe missed.

The "Biwaichi" is a cycling route that wraps all the way around
Lake Biwa, and there’s no better starting point than the O-PORTable bike rental shop. With all the cycling items you need available
for rental, as well as offering repair and maintenance services, feel
free to stop by the shop empty handed to start your journey. Don’t
forget to take a break when you get back, and stop by Bird Cafe
inside the shop for a relaxing meal, beverage, or snack.

Lake Biwa and the Seta River offer plenty of unique aquatic
activities to choose from. The Seta River is a renowned destinationfor visitors from all across the Kansai region as a hotspot for
rafting, tubing, and river bugging. Whether you team up withfriends for a rafting expedition or strike out on your own in a solo
tube, you're sure to have fun on the water.

O'PAL is one of the most acclaimed facilities in Otsu for outdoor
activities. From water activities on Lake Biwa, to outdoor experienceson Mt. Hiei, O'PAL arranges many programs to help you get somequality time with mother nature. O'PAL's stand-up paddleboarding
and kayaking programs are among their most popular, with options
that include barbecues and cycling trips around the city as well.

Michigan Cruise

Cycling

Rafting and Tubing

Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Biwako Kisen
ADD

5 -1-1 Hamaotsu, Otsu

PHONE

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㆒ Explore Lake Biwa with a cruise from Otsu Port
㆓ Don't miss the Lake Biwa Flower Fountains
叅 Rent a bike at the lakeside Cycle Station
4 Enjoy cycling with gorgeous scenic views
5 Snap a photo near the Michigan at Otsu Port6T
 ry a croque monsieur sandwich from BirdCafe

077-524-5000 (Reservation center)

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CYCLE STATION O-PORT-able
ADD5
 -1-7 Hamaotsu, Otsu

PHONE

077-548-6572 (Biwaichi Bike)

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Friendship Adventures
ADD

1215-5 Ishiyama Nangocho, Otsu

PHONE077-533-5112

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O’PAL
ADD

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5-265-1 Ogoto, Otsu

PHONE

077-579-7111

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OTSU

Seasonal
Activities
㆒ Try catching some black bass on the lake㆓S ail across Lake Biwa
叅 Relax and enjoy the refreshing autumn breeze as it blows across the lake
4 The Sanno Torii gate at Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine decorated in autumn colors
5 The crimson colored leaves at Mii-dera Temple
6N
 ighttime autumn illumination event at Ishiyama-dera Temple

Spanning Mount Uchimi and Mount Horai, this ski resort features
gentle slopes that are perfect for beginners and children alike.
Ski to your heart's content as you take in the breathtaking views.

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AutumnThe mild autumn weather in Otsu makes it the best season forfishing and sailing on the lake, and Marina Club Rivre is theperfect place for both. From guided fishing tours of the best spots
for black bass to trying your hand at sailing, there is always plenty
to do on Lake Biwa.

Otsu, with its lush natural surroundings, is home to many famousspots to see the fall colors. Each year as the colors begin tochange, visitors flock to see the autumn foliage in Otsu at
locations like Mii-dera Temple, Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine, Ishiyamadera Temple, the Lake Biwa Canal, and Hieizan Driveway. Make
sure to save the date for your next visit, and come see all theAutumn season has to offer in Otsu.

Located at an elevation of 1,100 meters, the mountaintop resort
Biwako Valley is the perfect year-round spot for grand panoramic
views of the Lake Biwa Landscape. December marks the startof the winter season at the resort when the mountain transforms
into a snow-covered paradise. With many open areas and slopes
available, the resort is a hotspot for skiers all across the Kansai
region this time of year in Japan. At Biwako Terrace, you can kickback, relax, and lose track of the time while taking in the grandviews of Lake Biwa below.

Fishing and SailingTour the Fall Colors

SkiingMarina Club Rivre
ADD

3
 -23-19 Imakatata, Otsu

PHONE

14

Winter077-573-5656

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Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine
Mii-dera Temple 5 		Ishiyama-dera Temple 64

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Biwako Valley
1547-1 Kido, Otsu

▶ P10

ADD

▶ P09

PHONE

▶ P10

077-592-1155[ Green Season Late April - Late November ]The "Green Season" at Biwako Valley takes place during the spring andsummer months, featuring a variety of outdoor activities from a zipline
down the mountain to an obstacle course in the sky. Activities during
this season are available until early November.

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OTSU

Taste the Region

Omi Beef SteakOmi Beef, which is one of the threemajor brands of Wagyu in Japan, is
known for its soft texture and finely
marbled meat. The beef at Matsukiya
is aged at low temperatures, bringing
out its true flavor and enhancing its
umami for a delicious meal. Make
sure to try the Omi Beef Fillet or the
Omi Beef Sirloin.

Restaurant Matsukiya(Main Branch)ADD1
 4-17 Karahashicho,
Otsu

PHONE

077-534-2901

Otsu boasts many delectable Omi-style foods to choose
from. From Omi beef, one of Japan's three major Wagyu
breeds and the oldest beef brand in Japan, to Biwa trout,a fish indigenous to Lake Biwa, you will be spoiled for
choice here in Otsu.

Natural Biwa
Trout Sashimi
Natural trout caught in Lake Biwa,
known as biwamasu in Japanese,are a vibrantly-colored, fatty fishwith a superb flavor. Every day,Tokkuri offers natural Lake Biwa
seafood fresh from the market, lakefish boiled down in soy sauce, andunique seasonal flavors that you'll
only find in Lake Biwa.

TokkuriADD

 OCOLAS Otsu 1F,C
2-1 Kasugacho, Otsu

PHONE

077-522-1147

Eel Shabu-Shabu
Omi Shamo Chicken
Sukiyaki
Jidoriya Onza uses homegrown leanchickens which are well-known for
their savory meat and texture. These
free-ranging birds are raised withzero stress, resulting in Omi shamo
with quality meat which is used forcooking in home-made sauce fordelicious sukiyaki. Jidoriya Onza
is a restaurant run directly by the
Kawanaka chicken farm, so you canenjoy the best chicken umami in avariety of luxurious dishes.

The restaurant Osugi specializes
in eel cuisine, with its crown jewel
being its “eel shabu-shabu” which
attracts foodies from all across thecountry. The restaurant’s secret toits incredible shabu-shabu is cooking
the eels in quality soup stock to
draw out the meat’s fat and delicious
flavors, creating a melt in your mouth
experience like no other. It is also
recommended to use the wasabi soy
sauce or ponzu citrus vinegar toppings
to bring the umami of the eel to awhole new level. Osugi features many
eel-themed items, courses, and more.

Jidoriya Onza

Osugi

ADD

4
 -9-50 Mano, Otsu

PHONE

0120-003-129

ADD

3-4-30 Chuo, Otsu

PHONE

077-526-3824

Shabu-shabu is a Japanese hot pot dish ofthinly-sliced ingredients cooked by passing
them through boiled water, which are thendipped in sauce.

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OTSU

Artisan Crafted
Souvenirs

Top off your trip with travel-friendly souvenirs from artisansin Otsu whose techniques have been passed down forgenerations.

Pearls from Lake Biwa

Asajio Japanese Sake

At Jinbo Pearls (founded in 1966),
the shop’s third generation ownerpersonally selects each and every pearlthat is used in their jewelry. Pearls from
Lake Biwa are renowned for their uniquecolors and shapes, and here you canselect the exact pearls you want to use
in your custom jewelry. The distinct
pearls perfectly compliment the wide
variety of simple jewelry designs at the
shop. From pendants to earrings, Jinbo
Pearls is the perfect place to find asouvenir of your time at Lake Biwa.

This long-standing brewery has
watched over Otsu since 1658,
perfecting its craft along the way with
its signature “Asajio” sake. The Special
Junmai “Ginfubuki” in this series strikes
the perfect balance between umami andsweet, offering an easy on the palate
flavor that even novice-sake drinkers
can enjoy.

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4 / Hirai Shoten
ADD1-2-33 Chuo, Otsu

PHONE

077-522-1277

1 / Jinbo Pearls
ADD

1 F, 3-4-28 Chuo, Otsu

PHONE

Craft Beer

077-523-1254

Omi Beer is a small-scale brewery in
Katata which creates its own originalcraft beer. Koji Ale is a unique beverage
made with malted rice, and makes agreat souvenir along with the Lake Biwa
IPA. In addition to the 330 ml regularbeer, Omi Beer also offers special
brews and seasonal flavors which canbe purchased individually and in sets.

Amo Sweets
Kanou Shoujuan is known for amo, atreat that features the refined sweetness
of Tamba Dainagon adzuki beans
perfectly balanced with a mochi center.
Don’t forget to buy some Amo Karuta
crackers, which are crispy, card-shaped
biscuits that are perfect for making an“amo sandwich.”

5 / Omi Beer
54
 -2-1 Oishi Ryumon, Otsu

PHONE

077-546-3131

Omi Beef Curry
This ultimate beef curry is made by
Matsukiya, who is said to have spreadthe name of “Omi Beef” across thecountry. The beef in this instant curryis hand cut by craftsmen to deliver thetrue flavor of luxurious Omi Beef. It
was developed and improved over thecourse of years to create the perfectsouvenir for your trip.

3 / Restaurant Matsukiya(Main Branch)ADD1
 4-17 Karahashicho, Otsu

PHONE

077-534-2901

3-24-37 Honkatata, Otsu

PHONE

2 / Kanou Shoujuan Sunai no Sato
ADD

ADD

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Otsu-e Paintings
Otsu-e paintings are a folk art which
originated in Otsu during the Edo period(1603 - 1710). These Buddhist paintings
were popular among travelers on the
Tokaido road, and were created by Otsu
artists using techniques handed downover generations to the current day. The
fifth generation Otsu-e artist Takahashi
Shozan continues to use time-honored
techniques and materials to create
these works of art at his shop, Otsu-e
no Mise. Paintings that feature oni
demons in monk's clothes and beautiful
women in traditional Japanese costume
are some of the most popular subjects
in Otsu-e art.

6 / Otsu-e no Mise
ADD

3-38 Miideracho, Otsu

PHONE

18

077-536-5222

077-524-5656

19

OTSU

Exclusive Stays

Browse from a selection of hand-picked accommodations,
ranging from a historic hot spring inn, to renovated traditional
townhouses, and much more.

㆒ There are seven townhouses here including"Ohmiya", the front desk building㆓M
 odern, Japanese-style guest room "Koujiya"叅 Take in the views of a Japanese-style garden
while relaxing on the veranda
4 Try breakfast made with ingredients from Lake
Biwa

Renovated townhouses

Hotel Koo
Otsu Hyakucho

2This hotel operates out of sevenrenovated traditional Japanesestyle townhouses that were once
used over 100 years ago by
travelers along the old Tokaido
road in the “Otsu Hyakucho”
shopping district. Featuring avariety of modern Japanese-style
guest rooms to choose from, Hotel
Koo is the perfect place to catchyour breath and take a break fromthe action. For breakfast, makesure to try the “Eel Chazuke,” aneel dish which comes with side
dishes with ingredients straightfrom Lake Biwa.

ADD

1

1-2-6 Chuo, Otsu

PHONE

0570-001-810

2

3

4

3

Glamping resort

AFUMI KITAKOMATSU

1
㆒ The Gesshin-no Yu outdoor bathoffers sweeping views of Lake Biwa
㆓ Enjoy a delicious, beautiful meal at
Yumotokan叅 Modern, Japanese-style twin room
4 The Kotone DX suite is a guest roomwith an outdoor hot spring bath

Located on the shores of Lake
Biwa, Afumi Kitakomatsu is aglamping resort that offers uniqueexperiences near the foothillsof the Hira mountains. Enjoy
the magnificent views, seasonalbarbecue menus, and easy accessfrom Kyoto while you treat yourself
to a relaxing holiday by the lake.

4

Ogoto Hot Spring
The Ogoto Hot Spring is a coveted source of mild, highly
alkaline simple springs, offering visitors with even the most

Historic hot spring lodging

sensitive of skin types a soothing soak that leaves the skin

Yumotokan

feeling silky soft and beautiful. This storied hot spring wasonce regarded as a “miraculous disease curing spring” due toits proximity to the many sacred shrines and temples in Otsu,
and to this day, weary travelers from all over the prefecture
come to wash away their fatigue at the over 1,200-year-old
Ogoto Hot Spring.

Ogoto Hot Spring Inns and Hotels
Lakeside Inn Ogotoso
Yumotokan
KotoyuDantokan Kikunoya
Komolebi

Biwako Hanakaido
Biwako Grand Hotel Kyo-Ohmi
Biwako Ryokusuitei
YuzansoThis inn has the longest history in the Ogoto Hot Springarea, and is enveloped in a warm, quiet Japanese
atmosphere. The sophisticated floor "Hanare Karoi" hasits own lounge and guest rooms equipped with outdoor
hot spring baths. Gesshin-no-Yu offers charming
panoramic views of Lake Biwa, and trying each of the
intricately-designed baths is one trusty way to treat
yourself to a true moment in luxury. As an added perk,
guests here can expect all the best from light to hearty
flavors as the food is said to tantalize all five of thesenses.

ADD

ADD

Otsu
077-535-9215

PHONE

1

2
 -30-7 Noka, Otsu

PHONE

077-579-1111
2

20

997-1 Kitakomatsu,

3

4

㆒S
 tay in a luxurious outdoor dome with a perfectlakeside view㆓G uest rooms comfortably accommodate two tofour people叅 Enjoy a peaceful night near the lake
4 Taste the flavors of Shiga with a barbequefeaturing local ingredients21S a m pl e I t i n er a r i es

Fully detailed on GLT online!

01

Day 1

02

4

5

1

2

1

3

Day 2

㆒ Practice Zen meditation while gazing at the gardens of Enman-in Temple

Sample Itinerary - Day Trip

Sample Itinerary - 2 Days, 1 Night

Take a step back in time with ahistoric walking course of Otsu

Dive into the best views andactivities Otsu has to offer

9:30 A.M.	Find your best snap at the photoworthy Lake Biwa Canal 2

2

3

A K
 anou Shoujuan▶P04

Nagara (Main Branch)

10:00 A.M.	Visit Mii-dera Temple, famous for its
cherry blossoms and autumn foliage▶P06, 09, 14

ADD2 -4-2 Nagara,
Otsu

PHONE

077-525-8111

11:00 A.M.	Try Zen meditation and a game oftosenkyo at Enman-in Temple 1

B K
 akurido▶P09

12:00 P.M.	Taste some shojin cuisine, theADD

traditional meal of Buddhist monks,
at Enman-in Temple ▶P09
4

5

PHONE

craftsman at Otsu-e no Mise 3▶P19

shop in Nagara, “Kanou Shoujuan”

A

3:00 P.M.	Tour Lake Biwa on the Michigan
Cruise 4▶P06, 12

4:30 P.M.	Search for your favorite Japanese
sweets at Kakurido

㆓ Springtime cherry blossoms at the Lake Biwa Canal叅A rtisans who have perfected their craft over generations
4 Cruise across Lake Biwa on the "Michigan" paddleboat
5 Distinctive pearls from the Mother Lake
6 Exquisitely-flavored Omi tea
7 Experience the one-of-a-kind eel shabu-shabu

7B

5:00 P.M.	Find local Shiga sake at Hirai Shoten▶P19

5:30 P.M.	Visit Jinbo Pearls to pick out jewelry
using pearls from Lake Biwa 5▶P18

6:00 P.M.	Stop by Nakagawa Seiseido Chaho
for some Omi tea 6C

6:30 P.M.	Get your fill of eel shabu-shabu at
Osugi 722077-523-2662

1:00 P.M. Witness the techniques of a master2:00 P.M. Head to a famous Japanese sweets

61 -2-18 Kyomachi,
Otsu

C N
 akagawa Seiseido Chaho
ADD3 -1-35 Chuo, Otsu

PHONE

077-522-2555

6
㆒ Feast your eyes on the never-ending blue scenery at Biwako Terrace
㆓R elish some Omi beef at a mountaintop resort
叅 Enjoy a variety of activities available all year-round
4 Try Omi shamo chicken sukiyaki
5 Kick back and relax with a craft beer
6F eel the breeze from a yacht on Lake Biwa

Day 1

Day 2

10:00 A.M.	Gaze in wonder at the

9:30 A.M.	Treat your feet to a complimentary footbreathtaking panoramic
views of Lake Biwa from
Biwako Valley 1 ▶P07, 15

12:00 P.M.	
Take a break for some lunch
at HALUKA, Biwako Valley's
own bar and grill 2 A

1:30 P.M.	
Indulge in a skiing adventurein the great outdoors 3
Try some other outdoor
activities during the “Green
Season,” from exhilarating
mountain zip lines to achallenging obstacle coursein the sky

5:00 P.M.	
Get comfy at the Ogoto Hot
Springs historic Yumotokaninn ▶P20

A Grill and Bar HALUKA(Inside Biwako Valley)bath in the morning at Ogoto Onsen Kanko
Park BPHONE

077-592-1155
Reservations not accepted

10:30 A.M.	
Sail a yacht at the Marina Club Rivre 6▶P14

1:30 P.M.	
Savor a delectable course meal at Jidoriya
Onza 4▶P16

1-2-17 Ogoto, Otsu
077-578-3750

PHONE

3:00 P.M.	
Visit Ukimido, the floating temple atMangetsu-ji Temple

B Ogoto Onsen Kanko Park
ADD

▶P04

3:30 P.M.	
Stop by Uotomi Shoten for some tsukudani,a traditional dish of fish boiled in soy sauceC1-16-14 Honkatata, Otsu

PHONE

4:00 P.M.	
Satisfy your sweet tooth with seasonal
Japanese sweets at Shimaya

C Uotomi Shoten
ADD

4:30 P.M.	
Learn about the sake crafting process at
Naminooto Shuzo, a historic breweryE

D Shimaya (Ukimido Branch)

5:30 P.M.	
Raise a toast to end the day at Omi Beer

ADD

▶P19

PHONE

Terrace 5077-572-1029

D1-21-22 Honkatata, Otsu
077-574-3791

E Naminooto Shuzo
ADD

1-7-16 Honkatata, Otsu

PHONE

077-573-0002

▶P17

23

Getting T h e re
Kyoto

Kita-Komatsu Sta.

Osaka

AFUMI KITAKOMATSU
P21

Nara

Omi-Maiko Sta.

367

Shiga

Omimaiko P07

Biwako Valley / Biwako Terrace
P07, 15, 23

Lake Biwa

161

ine
J R K o s ei L

477

Ono Sta.

Kyoto

Jidoriya Onza
P16, 23

367

Katata Sta.

P14, 23

By Airplane

P05

Omi Jingu Shrine P10

Keihan-otsukyo Sta.

Mii-dera Temple P06, 09, 14, 22
Enman-in Temple P09, 22
The Lake Biwa Canal P04, 22

Lake Biwa Great Fireworks Festival P07
CYCLE STATIONO-PORT-able P12
Biwako Kisen /Michigan Cruise (Otsu Port)
P06, 12, 22

Otsukyo Sta.

JRKyoto Sta.

8

Express Haruka
47 min.

JR
Osaka Sta.

See the following section for access from Kyoto or
Osaka Station.

1

By Train

BridgeBiwako Line

Ishiyama Sta.
wa

Kyoto Sta.

JR Kansaiairport Sta.

Otsu Sta. Zeze Sta. Omi Ohashi

ansen
y

yp
Keiji B

Takebe Taisha Shrine(Noryo Senko Festival) P11

Ishiyamadera Sta.

Otsu-e no Mise P19, 22
Kanou Shoujuan Nagara(Main Branch) P22
Nakagawa
Seiseido Chaho P22
1

Kusatsu Sta.

Express Haruka
80 min.

Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel P05

Tokaido Shink

s
pres

Biw

Keihan-zeze Sta.

Keihan- Keihan Kei s h in Lineyamashina Sta.

in Ex
Meish

Approx. 60 min.

Biwako-hamaotsu Sta.

Yamashina Sta.

Kyoto Sta.

o

ak

JR

e
Lin

HieizanFormer Chikurin-in Temple P04
Sakamoto Sta.

Keihan IshsakamotoiyamaLine

an
Hieizeway
Driv

P08

Airport bus

Kansai International Airport

P07, 10, 11, 14

Hieizan Enryaku-ji Temple

Osaka
International
Airport(Itami Airport)

Omi Beer P19, 23
477
Uotomi Shoten P23
Naminooto Shuzo P23
Shimaya (Ukimido Branch) P23

Yumotokan P20,
P20 23
Ogoto Onsen Kanko Park P23
Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine (Sanno Festival)

P05, 06

Sakamoto Cable

1

P04, 23O’PAL P13

Ogotoonsen Sta.

Sakamotohieizanguchi Sta.

Osaka International Airport (Itami Airport)

Ukimido (Mangetsu-ji Temple)
BiwakoOhashi
Bridgei
Okuhie ay
Drivew

Saikyo-ji Temple

AccessMarina Club Rivre

as s

Restaurant Matsukiya(Main Branch) P16, 18
Ishiyama-dera Temple P10, 14

S
Ex hinpr M
es eissw hi
ay n

Friendship Adventures P13
Hotel Koo Otsu Hyakucho P21
Otsumatsuri Hikiyama Renmei (Otsu Festival) P06, 11
Hirai Shoten P19, 22
Osugi P17, 22
Kanou Shoujuan Sunai no Sato P18
Jinbo Pearls P18, 22
Kakurido P22
Tokkuri P17

JR Kyoto Sta.
9 min.

JR
Otsu Sta.

Tokaido LineJR Osaka Sta.

40 min.

Subway Tozai Line

Keihan Sanjo Sta.

25 min.

KeihanBiwakohamaotsu
Sta.

By Car

422
24

307

N

0

5 km

Tourism Inquiries
Otsu Station Tourist Information Center
OTSURY (Inside JR Otsu Station)
English service available
PHONE

Biwako Otsu Travel Guide
Otsu’s official tourism information
website077-522-3830■ Published by: Otsu Tourism Promotion Division
Photos: Biwako Otsu Tourism Association, PIXTA, @50tempests Produced by: GOOD LUCK TRIP (Arukikata. Co., Ltd.)Area aroundKyoto Sta.

National Route 1
Approx. 30 min.

Otsu