Things to do in Otsu

Activities, attractions and tours

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.

Things to do

Kyoto: Kimono, Tea Ceremony with Japanese Garden and Studio

Kyoto: Kimono, Tea Ceremony with Japanese Garden and Studio

RM78
per adult
Kyoto: Kimono, Tea Ceremony with Japanese Garden and Studio
Afternoon Kyoto Bike Tour: Bamboo Forest, Monkeys & Hidden Spots

Wild Kyoto: An Afternoon of Bikes, Bamboo & Monkeys

RM441
per adult
Wild Kyoto: An Afternoon of Bikes, Bamboo & Monkeys
Kyoto Gion Kimono Rental

Kyoto Gion Kimono Rental

RM114
per adult
Kyoto Gion Kimono Rental
Eikando Temple Kyoto Kimono Rental with Hair Styling Experience

Eikando Temple Kyoto Kimono Rental with Hair Styling Experience

RM143
per adult
Eikando Temple Kyoto Kimono Rental with Hair Styling Experience
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

RM389
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Kyoto Tea Ceremony with Kimono near Imamiya Jinjya Shrine
Kyoto : Chopsticks Making Workshop with Engraving Option in Gion

Kyoto : Chopsticks Making Workshop with Engraving Option in Gion

RM28
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Kyoto : Chopsticks Making Workshop with Engraving Option in Gion
Kyoto: Kintsugi

Kyoto: Kintsugi (Gold Repair) Workshop in Gion

RM32
per adult
Kyoto: Kintsugi (Gold Repair) Workshop in Gion
Picture 3 for Activity From Kyoto: Nara Guided Half Day Bus Tour

From Kyoto: Nara & Kyoto World Heritage 1-Day Bus Tour

RM311
per adult
From Kyoto: Nara & Kyoto World Heritage 1-Day Bus Tour
Kyoto Traditional Kintsugi Repair Experience in Central Kyoto

Kyoto Traditional Kintsugi Repair Experience in Central Kyoto

RM65
per adult
Kyoto Traditional Kintsugi Repair Experience in Central Kyoto
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Most popular experiences in Otsu

Tours & day trips

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Perfect Kyoto 1Day Bus Tour

Perfect Kyoto 1Day Bus Tour

Activity duration is 8 hours and 30 minutes
9.6 out of 10 with 181 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 490 per adult
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Private & custom tours

See all 194 activities
Kyoto: Gion Chopsticks Making Class with Engraving Option

Kyoto: Gion Chopsticks Making Class with Engraving Option

Activity duration is 1 hour
10.0 out of 10 with 1173 reviews
Free cancellation available
The previous price was RM 52 and current price is RM 26 per adult
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Classes & workshops

See all 146 activities
Kyoto Tea Ceremony with Kimono near Imamiya Jinjya Shrine

Kyoto Tea Ceremony with Kimono near Imamiya Jinjya Shrine

Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes
10.0 out of 10 with 402 reviews
Free cancellation available
The previous price was RM 387 and current price is RM 348 per adult
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Shows & concerts

See all 39 activities
Kyoto Sumo Entertainment Show with Chicken Hot Pot and Geisha

Kyoto Sumo Entertainment Show with Chicken Hot Pot and Geisha

Activity duration is 2 hours
9.8 out of 10 with 203 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is RM 258 per adult
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Adventure & outdoor

See all 36 activities
Japan: Katsuo-ji, Atago Nenbutsu-ji & Arashiyama Hiking Tour

Japan: Katsuo-ji, Atago Nenbutsu-ji & Arashiyama Hiking Tour

Activity duration is 1 day
Price is RM 236 per traveller
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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.
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.

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.