Things to do in Otsu

Activities, attractions and tours

A traditional wooden pavilion on a pier extending into a calm body of water, with a clear blue sky above.
A traditional Chinese pavilion with a tiled roof, situated on a stone bridge over water, with mountains in the background.
A pathway lined with lanterns and trees with autumn foliage.
A city skyline with fireworks over a body of water.
A traditional Japanese wooden structure with a thatched roof, surrounded by lush greenery.

Things to do

Osaka/Kyoto: Katsuoji & Arashiyama & Kinkakuji Day Tour

Osaka/Kyoto: Katsuoji & Arashiyama & Kinkakuji Day Tour

S$63
per adult
Osaka/Kyoto: Katsuoji & Arashiyama & Kinkakuji Day Tour
Kyoto/Osaka: Nijo Castle, Arashiyama, Kinkakuji Day Tour

Kyoto/Osaka: Nijo Castle, Arashiyama, Kinkakuji Day Tour

S$63
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Kyoto/Osaka: Nijo Castle, Arashiyama, Kinkakuji Day Tour
Kyoto/Osaka: Amanohashidate & Ine Funaya & Miyama Day Tour

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

S$65
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Kyoto/Osaka: Amanohashidate & Ine Funaya & Miyama Day Tour
Picture 3 for Activity Osaka: Lake Biwa, Moonlit Temple and Omi Highlights Day Trip

Osaka: Lake Biwa,Shirahige Shrineand Omi Highlights Day Trip

S$69
per adult
Osaka: Lake Biwa,Shirahige Shrineand Omi Highlights Day Trip
Kyoto Bike Tour - Monkey Tour

Wild Kyoto: An Afternoon of Bikes, Bamboo & Monkeys

S$129
per adult
Wild Kyoto: An Afternoon of Bikes, Bamboo & Monkeys
Kyoto: Kimono, Tea Ceremony with Japanese Garden and Studio

Kyoto: Kimono, Tea Ceremony with Japanese Garden and Studio

S$24
per adult
Kyoto: Kimono, Tea Ceremony with Japanese Garden and Studio
Kyoto: Gion and Geisha District Walking Tour

Kyoto: Gion and Geisha District Walking Tour

S$16
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Kyoto: Gion and Geisha District Walking Tour
Kyoto Gion Kimono Rental

Kyoto Gion Kimono Rental

S$36
per adult
Kyoto Gion Kimono Rental
Kyoto 5-Star Geisha Night Walk: Small-Group Authentic Experience

Kyoto 5-Star Gion Geisha Walk – Small-Group Authentic Experience

S$154
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Kyoto 5-Star Gion Geisha Walk – Small-Group Authentic Experience
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What to do in Otsu

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 during your trip to Otsu. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the temples in this culturally rich area.
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Where to stay in Otsu

Find the best Otsu areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Otsu
Learn more about Otsu
A coastal cityscape with mountains in the background.

Ogoto

While visiting Ogoto, you might make a stop by sights like Ogoto Onsen and Lake Biwa.

Chuo

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

Ogaya

Ogaya might not have many top sights, but Aeon Mall Kusatsu and Yabasekihan Island Park are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Kyomachi

While Kyomachi isn't home to many top sights, Otsu Port and Biwako Hall are some notable places to visit nearby.

Nionohama

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

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

A traditional Japanese building surrounded by autumn foliage.

Kyoto

A traditional Japanese temple with a pond in front, surrounded by trees.

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

A torii gate in the water with mountains in the background.

Takashima

A collection of ceramic penguins with hats, arranged in rows on a gravel surface.

Koka

A tree with pink blossoms against a clear sky.
Photo by YOSHIFUMI OGISO (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0)

Yasu

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 travellers 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 neighbourhoods on foot. Only 0.64 kilometres from the city centre of Otsu is Ogoto and Katata is 2 kilometres 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 neighbourhoods 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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