Otsu

Travel Guide

A lock system with water gates, a bridge, and a modern building with orange and white colors.
A traditional Japanese building with a symmetrical design, featuring two main towers and a central entrance.
A close-up of several small clay bowls with green vegetables and a cracked egg.
A tree in the center of a plaza surrounded by tall stone columns.
Three large containers with Japanese writing and green designs, placed outside a building with a wooden facade and a tiled entrance.

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
A coastal cityscape with mountains in the background.

Ogoto

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

Noka

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

A beach with clear water, a person in the water, and mountains in the background.

Minami-komatsu

If you're spending some time in Minami-komatsu, Lake Biwa and Omi Maiko Nakahama Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Osaka

While there might not be top attractions in Osaka, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Mii-dera and Otsu Port.

Chuo

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

Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel

Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel

4 out of 5
4-7-7 Nionohama Otsu Shiga-ken
$73 nightly
The price is $81 total per night from Sep 29 to Sep 30
$81 total
Sep 29 - Sep 30
Book a stay at this golf hotel in Otsu. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and 4 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel
Smile Hotel Otsu Seta

Smile Hotel Otsu Seta

3 out of 5
1-3-11, Ogaya Otsu Shiga
$26 nightly
The price is $29 total per night from Sep 27 to Sep 28
$29 total
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Stay at this hotel in Otsu. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and parking (surcharge). Popular attractions Aeon Mall Kusatsu and Otsu City Science Museum ...
7.8/10 Good! (293 reviews)
"部屋が綺麗で良いホテルでした"

Reviewed on Jul 28, 2026

Smile Hotel Otsu Seta
Yumotokan

Yumotokan

4 out of 5
2-30-7 Noka Otsu Shiga-ken
$215 nightly
The price is $239 total per night from Sep 28 to Sep 29
$239 total
Sep 28 - Sep 29
Book a stay at this spa ryokan in Otsu. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (809 reviews)
"The amenities are endless. The staff are amazing. We didn't want to leave."

Reviewed on Sep 17, 2026

Yumotokan
See all 2,245 properties in Otsu
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
KINOTOMI OMIMAIKO - Self Check-In Only

KINOTOMI OMIMAIKO - Self Check-In Only

4 out of 5
16-53 Minamikomatsu Otsu Shiga
Book a stay at this business-friendly vacation home in Otsu. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and dry cleaning or laundry services. Popular attractions Omi Maiko ...
KINOTOMI OMIMAIKO - Self Check-In Only
1 Villa with private beach, boat jet, etc. can be directly unloaded Vacation Rental

1 Villa with private beach, boat jet, etc. can be directly unloaded Vacation Rental

大津市 滋賀県
Stay at this villa in Otsu. Enjoy free WiFi, private pools, and a beach locale. Popular attractions Omi Maiko Nakahama Beach and Hiratopia are located ...
1 Villa with private beach, boat jet, etc. can be directly unloaded Vacation Rental
IZA oumimaiko

IZA oumimaiko

3 out of 5
1044-47 Otsu Shiga
Book a stay at this spa villa in Otsu. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Popular attractions Omi Maiko Nakahama Beach and Hiratopia are ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (3 reviews)
"お皿や炊飯器といった調理器具はあるため簡単な料理は出来ました！ 遊び道具もあり楽しめました。 サウナをするには水着が必要なので持参するかホテルで借りる必要があります。 綺麗で楽しめました！"

Reviewed on Apr 28, 2026

IZA oumimaiko
See all properties in Otsu
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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

Things to do

Kyoto/Osaka: Amanohashidate & Ine Funaya & Miyama Day Tour

Kyoto/Osaka: Amanohashidate & Ine Funaya & Miyama Day Tour

$51
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Kyoto/Osaka: Amanohashidate & Ine Funaya & Miyama Day Tour
Historical Nara & Kyoto Morning Bus Tour

Historical Nara & Kyoto Morning Bus Tour

$75
per adult
Historical Nara & Kyoto Morning Bus Tour
Kyoto: Kimono, Tea Ceremony with Japanese Garden and Studio

Kyoto: Kimono, Tea Ceremony with Japanese Garden and Studio

$19
per adult
Kyoto: Kimono, Tea Ceremony with Japanese Garden and Studio
Kyoto Gion Kimono Rental with Optional Photo Session

Kyoto Gion Kimono Rental

$28
per adult
Kyoto Gion Kimono Rental
Wear a high-quality kimono, enjoy a tea ceremony experience in a small group, and hear fun travel stories from other travelers.

Kyoto Tea Ceremony with Kimono near Imamiya Jinjya Shrine

$77
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Kyoto Tea Ceremony with Kimono near Imamiya Jinjya Shrine
From Kyoto / Osaka: Kyoto Must-see Spots & Nara Park One Day Tour

From Kyoto / Osaka: Kyoto Must-see Spots & Nara Park One Day Tour

$54
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
From Kyoto / Osaka: Kyoto Must-see Spots & Nara Park One Day Tour
See all activities in Otsu

Frequently asked questions

Is Otsu worth visiting?
Otsu is worth visiting for its standout attractions, including Mount Hiei and Ogoto Onsen, offering travelers unique experiences. The destination also provides practical train access for easy exploration. For those who prefer to self-cater, local grocers are available to meet your needs.
When is the best time to visit Otsu?
The best time to visit Otsu is from April through July, when the weather is pleasant for exploring. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March are a good option, offering cooler temperatures and a different charm for travelers.
What is Otsu known for?
Otsu is known for Mount Hiei, a prominent landmark, and the soothing hot springs of Ogoto Onsen. Travelers can also explore the historic Lake Biwa Canal, all set within this city located on the shores of Lake Biwa.
What is a good itinerary length for Otsu?
A good itinerary length for Otsu is two to three days to explore Mount Hiei, Ogoto Onsen, and the Lake Biwa Canal. For an extended stay of four to five days, travelers can enjoy a Kyoto Hidden Gems Mt. Hiei and Sakamoto tour, or a Lake Biwa SUP and SUP Yoga Experience. See Otsu Activities.
How do you get around Otsu?
Travelers can easily get around Otsu using the train system. Stations such as Biwako-Hamaotsu Station, Ishiyama Station, and Seta Station connect various parts of the city, making it convenient to explore different attractions and areas within Otsu.
What are the top things to do in and around Otsu?
In Otsu, travelers can explore historic landmarks, enjoy nature, and discover unique local culture:

  • Explore Mount Hiei and Sakamoto with a guided tour
  • Relax at Ogoto Onsen, a popular hot spring area
  • Paddleboard or try SUP Yoga on Lake Biwa
  • Discover Otsu-e, Japan's traditional Edo Pop Art
  • Visit Enryakuji Temple, a historic landmark.

How do I plan a trip to Otsu?
To plan your trip to Otsu, search for hotels, flights, and activities on Expedia. Book popular experiences like a Lake Biwa SUP and SUP Yoga Experience in advance. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon. You can get around using trains, and a rental car might be useful for exploring areas like Mount Hiei or Ogoto Onsen.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Otsu?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Otsu by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Otsu with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Otsu trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Otsu?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Otsu can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Otsu trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Otsu trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Otsu trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Otsu trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Otsu?
If it's your first trip to Otsu, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Otsu hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Otsu hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Otsu

A traditional multi-tiered pagoda with green and red roofs.

Kyoto

A pagoda-style tower with a stepped design, surrounded by gravel, trees, and a red bridge.

Uji

A traditional Japanese onsen with clear turquoise water, wooden walkways, and a wooden bridge.

Kusatsu

A traditional wooden pavilion on a pier extending into a calm body of water, with a clear blue sky above.

Moriyama

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