2024 Otsu Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)

Largest Freshwater Lake in Japan

I made a visit to the largest freshwater lake in Japan - Biwako (Lake Biwa). It is located near Kyoto. You may plan a visit to Biwako if you are visiting Kyoto. The weather was too cold so I didn't take a walk by the Lake. I went up to the Biwako valley ski resort area, the view up there is stunning. Biwako is so huge you are unable to see the whole Lake even on high grounds. If you are not planning to ski, I suggest visiting Biwako during spring, summer or autumn, while the weather is not too cold. #biwako #biwakovalley #osaka

I was surprised 😭❤️ that There are such a beautiful/relaxing place like this here in SHIGA-KEN. weather still cold ✨🌬 📍#biwakovalley / #thebiwakoterrace Easily accessible in just 40 minutes from Kyoto and 1 hour from Osaka One of the best places in Japan that can be enjoyed all year round Approx. 5 minutes to the top of the mountain by Japan’s famous fastest ropeway Visitors will reach an altitude of 1,100m in around 5 minutes from the base of the mountain in Japan’s fastest ropeway. The 360-degree glass cabin provides a stunning panoramic view of Lake Biwa, Kyoto and even the Osaka cityscape.❤️❤️‍🔥 #summervacation#hikingtrails

Looking for a place to relax and unwind? Head on to Biwako Valley! Relax and enjoying the breathtaking view on top of the mountain while eating ice cream or drinking coffee it is a perfect place. Nature view at it's best. We went there in July. It was a beautiful sunny and cloudy day. One of the best place that I have ever visited. #givethanks

Recommended destinations for people in Kyoto near the city: Otsu Otsu City is the location of Shiga Prefecture, Japan, and the central city of Honshu, Japan, is the main destination of the Keihan, Zhongjing and Hokuriku economic circles. The economic port city of the Shogunate era. In 1880, the Otsu-Kyoto Railway was opened to traffic. Established in 1898. The Omi Jingu Shrine, the ancient temple and the Penghu Scenic Area are tourist attractions. Transportation: Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station for 2 hours and 15 minutes. Take the JR Tokaido Main Line from Kyoto Station to Otsu Station for about 9 minutes. Take the JR Tokaido Main Line and get off from Shin-Osaka Station to Otsu Station for about 40 minutes.

There is a Mitsui Temple near Otsu (now officially known as "Chang et al.") is one of the four major Buddhist temples in Japan. Built in the 7th century, after several years of battle, it has also suffered many wars but has been revived, so there is also the name of the Temple of the Dead Bird! In the temple, there is the "Mitsui Night Clock" of the Eight Rivers in the vicinity of the river. It is the bell of the Nara era. The scars and cracks on the Vatican clock are traces of history. There are 1,300 cherry blossoms in the temple. Every April, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Like a fairyland. The highest point of the Mitsui-ji Temple, Kannon-ji Temple, is located at the Observatory. It can see the streetscape of Otsu City, and the distance is Lake Biwa.

To reach the top of the Yanli Temple, you need to take the cable car of the Biru Mountain. The Sakamoto Cable Car Station was built in the 2nd year of the Showa era. The station itself completely preserves the European architectural style of the Taisho era and enters the cable car station. There is an inexplicable feeling of crossing! It is arranged like a green leather train station in the past. Even the rest seats are green. Is it a retro style? This is also a heart, cool! There are manual ticketing windows and ticketing machines. I recommend buying tickets on the machine. Because you can choose to speak in several languages such as Simplified Chinese, the operation process is very simple. The adult round trip is 1620 yen. The cable car departs every half hour, and the seat in the car is set in the opposite direction to the direction of travel (the side close to the mountain), and it feels like it is pulled up from the back when it is up. After arriving at the Birui Mountain Yanli Temple Station, an exit hall is a viewing platform where you can see the panoramic view of Wuhu. The view is very wide, and the distant Wuhu Bridge, characteristic buildings and temples are clearly visible.

Niche Travel|Sakura season enters the little-known "Flower Card Love" framing the Omi Jingu Shrine. Omi Jingu Shrine is not only the location of the flower card love, but also the location of Conan's "Tang Hong's Love Song". Located in Otsu City, it is very close to Kyoto, more than half an hour's drive, and even the cherry blossom season is rare. Transportation: Take the Keihan Electric Railways Ishiyama-Sakamota and get off at Omi-jingu-mae, about 9 minutes on foot. About the knowledge of the shrine: It is mainly dedicated to the 38th Emperor of Japan, and is regarded as the guiding, good luck, industrial, cultural and academic god of Tenchi. But in "Flower Love", here is a flower card (a Japanese card game) to advance to the wishing place, often seeing the wish to come here, to promote the flower card The wish is written on the wishing card. Photographs Tips: 1 The red crimson and long ladder at the main entrance of the Shrine are the landmark spots. If it is the cherry blossom season like me, Use the cherry blossoms in front of the gate to make a foreground. 2 The big bird house in the Omi Jingu Shrine is so beautiful. You can take a bird's eye on the front of the palace stairs and take a picture of the entire back of the palace. To avoid too much floor steps, you can bring a little palace. Roof 3 In the case of not obstructing the worshippers, you can take pictures of the blessing of the gods.

Endless Beautiful Lake Scenery – Biwako Valley in Shiga Prefecture

Many people often visit Kyoto, especially during the autumn foliage season. If you want to explore beyond Kyoto, you can try visiting the area around Lake Biwa. Lake Biwa is very large, and this time we introduce Biwako Valley, which offers a view from 1,100 feet high. Biwako Valley is open until November 4, 2024, and will reopen for the winter season starting December 28. If you want to ski and enjoy the scenery, you can visit at the end of December. It only takes half an hour to get from Kyoto Station to Shiga Station by train. However, be sure to check if you need to transfer to another train along the way, as it is easy to make a mistake. After arriving at Shiga Station, you must quickly take the shuttle bus, as it does not wait for passengers. Our group of five missed the bus because someone went to buy water (actually, it was me :)), so we had to wait over twenty minutes for the next one. After the shuttle bus arrives at the cable car station, you can buy tickets on-site to go up the mountain. The round-trip ticket for adults is 3,500 yen. Although it was not the ski season when we visited Biwako Valley, the endless view was very refreshing, especially as the cable car slowly ascended. There is a large observation deck at the top of the mountain, and its feature is that it does not have a large fence, so you can take full-body photos with the beautiful Lake Biwa as the background. Additionally, the fresh air and breeze on the observation deck are very refreshing. There is a Western-style restaurant at the top of Biwako Valley, and their food is quite good. I had a steak lunch that day.

The hot springs and food are amazing! 'Biwako Hanakaido'

I stayed at the inn 'Biwako Hanakaido' located in Shiga Prefecture. Upon arrival at the inn, we were served a welcome drink. It was delicious. While enjoying the welcome drink, we were given an explanation of the inn, and then our luggage was taken to our room. The room had a great view, overlooking Lake Biwa. We could choose from several types of yukata, which was exciting! Since we stayed in a room without a private bath, we used the hotel's hot springs! There was also an open-air bath, and we had it all to ourselves. After that, we had dinner. There was meat, fish, and dessert, all of which were delicious and very filling. After dinner, we relaxed in our room! The inn also offers items for room entertainment, and we played Jenga! The breakfast (10th photo) was also delicious, making it a perfect inn experience! If you're a foodie, definitely check it out!

Exploring the World Heritage Site 'Enryakuji Temple' in Shiga Prefecture!

Enryakuji Temple, located in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, is the head temple of the Tendai sect. 🙏 The temple grounds are situated at an altitude of 848 meters and can be accessed from both the Kyoto and Shiga sides. 🚃 There are various ways to get there, including buses, cable cars, and ropeways. It is recommended to choose the best route from the official Enryakuji website. You can also access it by private car. Enryakuji is divided into three areas: Todo (East Pagoda), Saito (West Pagoda), and Yokokawa. You can visit each area in sequence using a shuttle bus. 🚌 By the way, if you use a private car, you can visit each area in a shorter time as you won't have to wait for the bus. 🚗 If you are short on time, you can just visit the main Todo area! It's an incredibly calming place, making it the perfect temple for seeking relaxation. ✨ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Facility Name: Enryakuji Temple Address: 4220 Sakamoto Honmachi, Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, 520-0116 Access: About 65-70 minutes from Kyoto Station Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

New Discovery: Hotel by Lake Biwa

For summer vacation, we chose a hotel with a pool. We selected the Lake Biwa Hotel, which has a large public bath and offers a buffet dinner. The room wasn't cramped even for three people. The pool had a shallow area for children, but for some reason, both adults and children gathered in the deeper pool, so we leisurely swam in the children's pool. At night, we enjoyed a delicious meal at an Italian restaurant. The pizza is particularly good. Highly recommended.

Experience the Depth of Japanese Tradition at Shohoji Temple

Shohoji Temple (Iwamadera) is a place where you can feel the deep tradition and tranquility of Japan. The temple is famous for its serene gardens and tranquil architecture, offering visitors a sense of peace. The temple grounds are surrounded by a delicate Japanese-style garden, allowing you to enjoy an atmosphere in harmony with nature. In particular, the historical relics and artworks showcase Japan's rich cultural heritage. The temple's quiet ambiance and beautiful nature help you forget everyday stress and find inner peace through leisurely walks. Shohoji Temple is the perfect place to experience the essence of Japanese tradition.

Perfect getaway in Lake Biwa

It was a beautiful 3 days spent in Lake Biwa, which is about 30 minutes train ride from Kyoto. Highly recommended for a peaceful getaway from the hustle and bustle of Kyoto city while still enjoying the Japanese hospitality and amazing fresh food and produce. The hotel Yuzanso that we chose was also the perfect place to stay in terms of amenities, service, price and experience.

Yumemigaoka Observation Deck

#japantrip This observatory is located on the way to the east tower of Mt. Hiei Enryakuji Temple after entering the Mt. Hiei Driveway. From the observation deck, you can see Lake Biwa and the cityscape of Otsu in Shiga Prefecture. When I visited, the autumn leaves season had just begun, and the trees were just beginning to change their colors. The scenery is amazing! There was a bell with a bond motif nearby, so I was able to enjoy a short walk. A fee will be charged. But it is recommended

The cherry blossoms and tulips at Biwako Otsukan.

Taken on April 1, 2023. I think it's a place known only to those in the know. In Kyoto, there are so many people that it's hard to tell if you're going to see the cherry blossoms or just the crowds, but this place is less crowded and quiet. There is a walkway around Lake Biwa, and you can take a stroll. There are also people fishing for bass. It's just a few minutes' walk from Brunch Otsu Kyoto. The combination with the tulips is really lovely, and it's a perfect spot for taking photos.

🏯✨ Explore Tokyo's Spiritual Haven: Top 5 Shrines and Temples with FREE Admission! 🇯🇵📷

Save this post for an unforgettable Tokyo journey as we unveil the best 5 shrines and temples, all with free entrance! 🗾🌟 📷 Kanda Myojin Shrine: Dive into the historical charm of Kanda Myojin, known for its vibrant festivals and centuries-old traditions. 📷 Meiji Jingu Shrine: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Meiji Jingu, nestled in the heart of bustling Shibuya, offering a serene escape. 📷 Gotokuji Temple: Discover the beckoning cats at Gotokuji, the birthplace of the iconic "Maneki-neko," believed to bring good fortune. 📷 Hie Shrine: Ascend to Hie Shrine for panoramic views of Tokyo, where modernity meets tradition amidst the lush greenery. 📷 Sensō-ji Temple: Conclude your journey at Sensō-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple, with its iconic Thunder Gate and bustling Nakamise Street. Embark on a spiritual quest, capturing the essence of Tokyo's rich cultural heritage without spending a penny! 🚀🌈 cr:oneworldjustgo

Hotel Koo – Otsu Hyakucho Ohmiya Room Recepti

#2024wish Exception greeting and service by the staffs. The room was very comfortable and super clean. The only downside was my room was facing the public street therefore I could hear the cars or motorcycles passing by during the early morning hours.…Nevertheless, although I only stayed for one night, I enjoyed it thoroughly. Will definitely stay there again next time if needed.overall it awesome

was a nice trip

Sacred Monkeys: Hiyoshi's Guardian Spirits

#fallishere Location: 5 Chome-1-1 Sakamoto, Otsu, Shiga 520-0113, Japan Hiyoshi Taisha（日吉大舍）, located in Otsu, Japan, is a Shinto shrine with a rich history dating back over 2,100 years. Established in the 4th century, it venerates the deity Hiyoshi Okami. The shrine gained prominence during the Heian period (794-1185) when it became associated with the powerful Minamoto clan. Hiyoshi Taisha played a strategic role in protecting Kyoto, serving as a spiritual guardian. Its unique feature is the Sanno-sai or "Hiyoshi Taisha Grand Festival," held every 12 years, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. The vibrant celebrations include processions, traditional performances, and rituals, showcasing the deep cultural roots of the region. The shrine is set amidst scenic landscapes, adding to its allure. With its historical significance and cultural contributions, Hiyoshi Taisha stands as a testament to Japan's enduring spiritual heritage. #trip #2023travel #2023trip #2023travelwish #2023旅行願望 #timetotravel #tripblazers #historical #heritage #otsu #japan

Sacred Harmony: Hiyoshi Taisha's Sanctuaries

#fallishere Location: 5 Chome-1-1 Sakamoto, Otsu, Shiga 520-0113, Japan Hiyoshi Taisha, located in Otsu, Japan, is a Shinto shrine renowned for its West and East sanctuaries. The West Sanctuary, also called the Higashi Shin'en, dates back to the Nara period (710-794) and is dedicated to Sanno Gongen, a deity associated with Mount Hiei. It features a distinctive bridge called Soribashi, adding to its serene ambiance. On the other hand, the East Sanctuary, or Nishi Shin'en, has a rich history tracing back to the Heian period (794-1185). This section venerates Hiyoshi Myojin, a deity believed to protect against disasters. Visitors are captivated by its picturesque surroundings, including the sacred Nagaoka-kyo Palace ruins. Together, these sanctuaries showcase a harmonious blend of nature and spirituality, inviting pilgrims and tourists alike to immerse themselves in the cultural and religious tapestry of Hiyoshi Taisha. #trip #2023travel #2023trip #2023travelwish #2023旅行願望 #timetotravel #tripblazers #historical #heritage #otsu #japan

Kanda shrine

#tokyotrip Getting There - 2 Chome 16-2 Sotokanda, Chiyoda city, Tokyo, Japan. Attractions - Historic temple, Shinto shrine, Japanese architecture culture, Amazing wall paintings, antique stone sculptures and beautiful Japanese gardens which remind a rich culture of Japanese cultural. #historicculture #shintoshrine #familytravel #architecture

Lake Biwa Sightseeing

I went to Biwako Valley Terrace with my friends during Spring. The weather was good with Fresh air. You can see the biggest Lake in Japan. The Lake Biwa.

Autumn feels at Ishiyamadera Shiga Japan

The beautiful collage that will make your jaw dropped. A beauty to behold. #mytripvlog in Shiga Japan.

Maruyama Park

In the suburbs of Tokyo, there is a park where the cherry blossoms are blooming earlier than usual this year. Today's weather is nice, many people have come to the park for a picnic on the spot. There are also many foreigners, including Indians, who eat hand-held meals.

Snow time

Went here on lasts Jan 2020. We had so much fun here. The place that you can go for snowboarding, ride the snow slide & playing with the snow flakes #awesometrip #spooktaculartrip #tripblazers #fallingforfall #awesomepic #couplestrip

I left my heart in Biwako

Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel made our Biwako trip more exciting. All the rooms has a lake view window. Although the weather was really bad , we enjoyed our stay here nonetheless. The breakfast buffet was good staffs are very friendly and kind. Will definitely come back again soon .

The biggest Lake in Japan, Biwa Lake.

Cruising the biggest Lake in Japan , Biwako , by Michigan Cruise . A 90 minutes cruise with sumptuous lunch buffet. You will be amazed to see how huge the Biwa Lake is. It is surrounded by Cities , located at Shiga Prefecture.

Recommended in the suburbs of Kyoto, a small cherry blossom resort: Mitsui-ji Temple Mitsui Temple, known as "Mitsui Night Clock", one of the eight scenic spots in Omi, is also known as the Park City Temple. It was originally built on the center of Mount Hiei. The temple of the "Tiantai Zong" school in the strip eventually became a new independent sect because of the separation of factions. The temples such as Jintang, Renwangmen and the Triple Tower were also designated by Japan as national key cultural heritage. But the past and present life of these monasteries is not the focus of my engineering students. Only the nearly 1,500 cherry trees planted in the temple are the main purpose of this trip. The distribution of cherry blossoms The distribution of cherry blossoms at Mitsui-ji Temple is mainly concentrated on the main road between Jintang and the three-storied pagoda, and the half-mountain near the Guanyintang, which is the only way to visit the temple. So you don't need to go there specifically. Just stroll along the main road and you will always see it. National Treasure in the National Treasure is the first to come to Jintang, and the Mai Lai Bodhisattva Statue here is the most essential part of the temple. But for me, it is still more attractive to me to bloom in the cherry blossoms on both sides of the trail. At the beginning of April, "Yoshino Yoshino" and "Sakura" will be dyed in pale pink. Find a stone bench under the cherry tree and sit quietly, enjoying the sunshine and the hustle and bustle, and the cherry blossoms are beautiful. Walk in this quaint temple, walk on a small road covered with pink cherry blossom petals, and sometimes sit on the steps and feel the original quietness and coziness of the ancient Japanese temple, and sometimes run in the cherry blossoms. Turn the circle.

Strive to climb the mountain and walk down the street...just to find the most beautiful early cherry blossoms in the moment, this year's temperature seems to be colder, the cherry blossoms are also pushed and pushed again, watching TV in Japan every day to understand the exact Sakura forecast: At present, the overall situation in Japan is the picture of 9 maps. According to reliable predictions, it will be fully opened around April 5, and the cherry blossoms will be visible after 4-7 days, and continue to push north!

The Pearl Coast of Otsu is the temporary decision to go. Autumn is not the most beautiful time, because pearl ice is not seen, but in Hokkaido, there are too many scenes that you can't imagine in this snowy winter. Some of them are really waiting for the previous year, that is, only ten days in a year. The pearl ice on the Otsu coast is like this. Otsu Coast has not been developed yet. It is very primitive. There are many fishermen here. From late January to mid-February, the river ice of Tokachi River flows into the sea, and then the baptism of the big wave tide rushes to the shore. On the other hand, under the illumination of the rising sun, a piece of ice with different shapes seems to have given new vitality and shines. so gorgeous!