- Ōtsu was briefly the capital of Japan during the 7th century under Emperor Tenji, serving as the seat of the Omi-Otsu Palace.
- The city functions as a primary water source for the Kyoto-Osaka-Kobe metropolitan area, with Lake Biwa providing drinking water to approximately 15 million people.
- Because of its position on the Tokaido road, Ōtsu was historically one of the 53 stations of the Tokaido and a major transit hub for travelers moving between the capital and the eastern provinces.
- The city is home to a unique variety of endemic species found only in Lake Biwa, a lake estimated to be over four million years old.
- Traditional Omi beef, one of Japan's most prestigious wagyu brands, is historically associated with the cattle raised in the pastures surrounding the lake's basin.
About Ōtsu
Ōtsu serves as the capital of Shiga Prefecture and holds a historical identity as a former imperial capital and vital port on the western shore of Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake. Visitors can experience the grandeur of Enryaku-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site situated on Mount Hiei, or explore the expansive grounds of Mii-dera Temple. The city offers unique lakefront perspectives through the Michigan Cruise, while Ishiyama-dera provides a significant cultural link to the writing of The Tale of Genji. Its proximity to the lake defines both its landscape and local history, bridging ancient religious heritage with waterborne commerce.
Highlights of Ōtsu
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Temples
This massive monastic complex on Mount Hiei is the headquarters of the Tendai sect of Japanese Buddhism.
Temples
Famous for its collection of moon-viewing platforms, this temple is where Murasaki Shikibu is said to have begun writing The Tale of Genji.
Temples
This ancient temple complex features a large bell and offers a panoramic view over the southern reaches of Lake Biwa.
Places of interest
Board this paddle-wheel ship for a scenic tour of Lake Biwa to appreciate the scale of Japan's largest body of water.
Temples
Founded in the 7th century, this temple serves as the family memorial site for the powerful Ii clan of Hikone.
Venues
Located on the shore of Lake Biwa, this major performing arts venue is noted for its distinctive modern architectural design.
Top things to do in Ōtsu
The 406 highest-rated places in Ōtsu, ranked by travellers.
1
Temples
Enryaku-ji is the headquarters of the Tendai school of Buddhism, located atop Mount Hiei on the border of Otsu and Kyoto...
2
Temples
Sanzen-in Temple is a Tendai sect Buddhist temple located in the rural Ohara district of northern Kyoto, notable for its...
3
Temples
Daigo-ji is a sprawling Shingon Buddhist temple complex and UNESCO World Heritage site situated on the slopes of Mount D...
4
Temples
Ishiyama-dera is a Shingon Buddhist temple complex situated on the slopes of Mount Garan in Ōtsu, notable for its main h...
5
Temples
Rurikōin Temple is a Buddhist site in the Sakyō-ku district of Kyoto, famous for the reflection of its surrounding maple...
6
Temples
Mii-dera, officially known as Onjo-ji, serves as the head temple of the Tendai-jimon sect of Japanese Buddhism and is on...
7
Temples
8
Historical places
9
Places of interest
10
Temples
11
Temples
12
Temples
13
Venues
14
Temples
15
Temples
16
Parks
17
Museums
18
Historical places
19
Temples
20
Temples
21
Temples
22
Temples
23
Temples
24
Temples
25
Natural attractions
26
Temples
27
Places of interest
28
Parks
29
Temples
30
Temples
Explore by category
Jump straight to what you're into.
Ōtsu on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Ōtsu
Late March to early April for cherry blossoms or November for autumn foliage, as the mountain temples provide ideal viewing conditions.
2-3 days to balance the lakeside activities with visits to the significant temple complexes on the surrounding slopes.
The city is served by the JR Biwako Line and the Keihan Otsu Line, with local bus networks connecting to remote temple sites.
The area surrounding JR Otsu Station offers the most convenient transit access, while hotels near the Hamaotsu port provide direct lake views.
Mid-range; generally more affordable than neighboring Kyoto while offering similar historical density.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 406 curated attractions in and around Ōtsu, ranked by traveller ratings.
Enryaku-ji Temple is the highest-rated place to visit in Ōtsu right now.
The largest category is temples, with 229 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Toshima, Osaka, Kyoto.
Explore more of Japan
Other cities ranked by number of curated places.
