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Otsu Hotels

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Oct 17 - Oct 18
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Oct 18 - Oct 19
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Oct 23 - Oct 25
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Our top choices for Otsu hotels

1. Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel

Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel
Nionohama
Japan
TSUBASA
P8,720
P10,839 total
Nov 3 - Nov 4
Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel

2. THE GATE HOTEL KYOTO TAKASEGAWA by HULIC

THE GATE HOTEL KYOTO TAKASEGAWA by HULIC
Downtown Kyoto
United States
Justin
P17,751
P19,526 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
THE GATE HOTEL KYOTO TAKASEGAWA by HULIC

3. Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Kawaramachi Jokyoji

Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Kawaramachi Jokyoji
Shimogyo Ward
United States
Alexandra
P16,211
P17,832 total
Nov 2 - Nov 3
Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Kawaramachi Jokyoji

4. SOLARIA Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier

SOLARIA Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier
Downtown Kyoto
United States
Giovanna
P16,185
P17,803 total
Oct 26 - Oct 27
SOLARIA Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier

5. Cross Hotel Kyoto

Cross Hotel Kyoto
Downtown Kyoto
United States
Dora
P19,143
P21,058 total
Oct 21 - Oct 22
Cross Hotel Kyoto

6. JR WEST GROUP VIA INN PRIME KYOTOEKI HACHIJOGUCHI

JR WEST GROUP VIA INN PRIME KYOTOEKI HACHIJOGUCHI
Minami Ward
United States
Alexandra
P7,502
P8,252 total
Nov 2 - Nov 3
JR WEST GROUP VIA INN PRIME KYOTOEKI HACHIJOGUCHI

7. Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo

Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo
Minami Ward
United States
Peggy
P7,536
P9,119 total
Oct 18 - Oct 19
Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo

8. Hotel Granvia Kyoto

Hotel Granvia Kyoto
Shimogyo Ward
United States
Seleste
P12,406
P15,693 total
Oct 27 - Oct 28
Hotel Granvia Kyoto

9. The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Umekoji

The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Umekoji
Shimogyo Ward
United States
Arthur
P6,171
P7,807 total
Nov 4 - Nov 5
The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Umekoji

10. KAYA Kyoto Nijo Castle

KAYA Kyoto Nijo Castle
Central Kyoto
United States
Katherine
P10,644
P11,709 total
Oct 19 - Oct 20
KAYA Kyoto Nijo Castle

11. Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA 

Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA 
Minami Ward
Canada
Andrey
P15,761
P17,337 total
Oct 27 - Oct 28
Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA 

12. Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto

Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto
Gion
United States
Bruna Maria
P14,424
P15,866 total
Oct 26 - Oct 27
Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto

13. Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi

Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi
Shimogyo Ward
United Kingdom
Gisela
P7,022
P7,724 total
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi

14. RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto

RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto
Shimogyo Ward
United States
David
P10,212
P12,356 total
Oct 18 - Oct 19
RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto

15. Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Ekimae PREMIER

Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Ekimae PREMIER
Shimogyo Ward
United States
Junnel
P7,918
P8,709 total
Oct 19 - Oct 20
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kyoto Ekimae PREMIER

16. Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs

Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs
Shimogyo Ward
United States
Brian
P9,058
P10,083 total
Oct 19 - Oct 20
Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs

17. APA Hotel Kyoto Ekihigashi

APA Hotel Kyoto Ekihigashi
Shimogyo Ward
United States
Mark
P5,751
P6,959 total
Oct 18 - Oct 19
APA Hotel Kyoto Ekihigashi

18. Four Points Flex by Sheraton Kyoto Oike

Four Points Flex by Sheraton Kyoto Oike
Downtown Kyoto
United States
Hailey
P6,780
P7,458 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Four Points Flex by Sheraton Kyoto Oike

19. THE BLOSSOM KYOTO

THE BLOSSOM KYOTO
Shimogyo Ward
United States
Nicolas
P18,660
P20,526 total
Oct 25 - Oct 26
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO

20. Richmond Hotel Premier Kyoto Ekimae

Richmond Hotel Premier Kyoto Ekimae
Shimogyo Ward
United States
Victoria Marie
P8,630
P9,493 total
Oct 19 - Oct 20
Richmond Hotel Premier Kyoto Ekimae
View all properties

Vacation Rentals in Otsu

Aparthotel

Minn Gion Kamogawa

Minn Gion Kamogawa
Higashiyama Ward
"Excellent stay!"
Minn Gion Kamogawa
Aparthotel

Premium Apart MONday KYOTO GOJO

Premium Apart MONday KYOTO GOJO
Shimogyo Ward
"Nice stay!"
Premium Apart MONday KYOTO GOJO
Aparthotel

Kyototabisou Kasumi

Kyototabisou Kasumi
Higashiyama Ward
"The staff at the front desk was very helpful. We love being able to cook some eggs and toast for breakfast a few days because we had pots and pans that we could use. The location is close to a station which makes things easy. We loved the quiet neighborhood and the fact that we could easily walk to some neighborhood grocery stores when we needed things. There are also convenience stores and pharmacies nearby. Great little spot."
Kyototabisou Kasumi
Vacation Home

Momiji-an Kiyomizu-tei

Momiji-an Kiyomizu-tei
Higashiyama Ward
"Nice, cozy little house. Definitely better than hotel rooms for a family. The neighbor’s dog barks a lot, from 5-6am to 10-11pm!"
Momiji-an Kiyomizu-tei
Aparthotel

STITCH HOTEL KYOTO

STITCH HOTEL KYOTO
Shimogyo Ward
"I really enjoyed the spacious accommodations for our family. The Nescafé coffee station in the room was fantastic. The complimentary coffee and beverages in the lobby was wonderful after a long day of walking."
STITCH HOTEL KYOTO
Apartment

Furere Shichijo

Furere Shichijo
Higashiyama Ward
"Good location. "
Furere Shichijo
Vacation Home

Kyoto Machiya Fukune

Kyoto Machiya Fukune
Downtown Kyoto
"Excellent stay! Beautiful authentic Japanese house… well located!"
Kyoto Machiya Fukune
Apartment

Randor Residence Kyoto Nijo Castle

Randor Residence Kyoto Nijo Castle
Central Kyoto
"Perfect stay for a family of 4"
Randor Residence Kyoto Nijo Castle
Aparthotel

GOZAN HOTEL & SERVICED APARTMENT Higashiyama Sanjo

GOZAN HOTEL & SERVICED APARTMENT Higashiyama Sanjo
Higashiyama Ward
"spacious rooms and very clean and cozy"
GOZAN HOTEL & SERVICED APARTMENT Higashiyama Sanjo
Pension

RESI STAY YASAKA

RESI STAY YASAKA
Gion
"Nice place!!!"
RESI STAY YASAKA
Apartment

Minn Gion

Minn Gion
Gion
"Great location, close to restaurants and train station"
Minn Gion
Aparthotel

MONday Apart Premium Kyoto Sta. Kamogawa

MONday Apart Premium Kyoto Sta. Kamogawa
Shimogyo Ward
"Excellent places to stay"
MONday Apart Premium Kyoto Sta. Kamogawa
Aparthotel

Stay SAKURA Kyoto Gion North

Stay SAKURA Kyoto Gion North
Sakyo Ward
"Room was great value with plenty of space for four travelers. Appreciated having the ability to wash and dry clothes in the room."
Stay SAKURA Kyoto Gion North
Apartment

Stay SAKURA Kyoto Tambaguchi

Stay SAKURA Kyoto Tambaguchi
Shimogyo Ward
"Friendly staff"
Stay SAKURA Kyoto Tambaguchi
Vacation Home

Holiday home Samurai Tei Kyoto

Holiday home Samurai Tei Kyoto
Higashiyama Ward
"Comfortable, well-located house in a quiet residential alley. The house was quite cold when I arrived, and it took some time to heat up. The place doesn’t get much sunlight. Cool to stay in a machiya. Stairs are narrow and more like a ladder, but easily navigable for younger and smaller bodies. For the price there are more comfortable and equally well situated places around. "
Holiday home Samurai Tei Kyoto
See all vacation rentals
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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

Ogoto

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

Chuo

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

Noka

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

Ogaya

While there might not be top attractions in Ogaya, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Aeon Mall Kusatsu and Yabasekihan Island Park.

Asahigaoka

Though Asahigaoka might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Biwako Hall and Otsu Port.

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
A cable car moving over a mountainous landscape with a view of a valley and a body of water.

Biwako Valley Ski Resort

8.4/10 (66 reviews)
Hit the slopes in Otsu with a visit to Biwako Valley Ski Resort. Wander the lakeside or discover the hot springs in this relaxing area.
See properties
A person standing on a wooden deck overlooking a body of water and distant mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

Biwako Valley

9.0/10 (46 reviews)
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Biwako Valley during your travels in Otsu. Wander the lakeside or discover the hot springs in this culturally rich area.
See properties
A canal flanked by lush greenery and a red bridge.

Lake Biwa Canal

8.6/10 (14 reviews)
After visiting Lake Biwa Canal, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Kyoto. Make some time to visit the shops while you're in the area.
See properties
A traditional wooden pagoda surrounded by lush greenery.

Enryakuji Temple

8.6/10 (42 reviews)
After visiting Enryakuji Temple, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Otsu. Check out the temples and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
See properties
A traditional Japanese building with a symmetrical design, featuring two main towers and a central entrance.

Biwako Otsukan

8.0/10 (11 reviews)
Enjoy an outing to Biwako Otsukan during your stay in Otsu. Amble around this culturally rich area's picturesque gardens and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
See properties

Ogoto Onsen

8.4/10 (25 reviews)
You can take time to visit Ogoto Onsen during your travels to Otsu. Wander the lakeside or discover the hot springs in this relaxing area.
See properties

Hiei-zan & Enryaku-ji

9.2/10 (5 reviews)
Find out about the history of Otsu when you spend time at Hiei-zan & Enryaku-ji. Check out the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
See properties

Learn more about Otsu

Hike the forested paths of Mount Hiei to reach Enryaku-ji Temple, where Buddhist monks have practiced meditation for centuries. Explore Miidera Temple's historic buildings and climb to its bell tower for spectacular views across Lake Biwa.

See all hotels in Otsu
A traditional Chinese pavilion with a tiled roof, situated on a stone bridge over water, with mountains in the background.

Top Otsu Hotel Reviews

Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo

Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo

10/10 Excellent
"Everything was perfect"
Daniel 4-night trip
Posted 4 hours ago
Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo
Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel

Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Great English speaking staff with beautiful rooms. We booked last minute for one night and got a free upgrade. The view of the lake and city is gorgeous. I would recommend staying here for comfort."
Joseph 1-night trip
Posted 5 hours ago
Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel
Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto

Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto

10/10 Excellent
"A beautiful, western-style hotel conveniently located with helpful staff, a great buffet breakfast. Great to have laundry room available. Comfortable beds and pillows. Downside - fronts onto a busy street and not a traditional Japanese feel but th"
Laylee 3-night trip
Posted 5 hours ago
Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto
Apa Hotel Biwako Seta Ekimae

Apa Hotel Biwako Seta Ekimae

10/10 Excellent
"This is our home away from home when we visit my family. We get a twin room so that we have some extra space. Proximity to the station is great, and there are two grocery stores within walking distance. Laundry facilities are good, and the rooms are always clean. The bed is a bit soft for my liking, but my husband loves it. We will be staying at APA Seta Ekimae again in the future. We did not have their breakfast."
Tanis 3-night trip
Posted 6 hours ago
Apa Hotel Biwako Seta Ekimae
RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto

RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto

10/10 Excellent
"This is a lovely hotel, very well maintained. The room was big and met all our needs. I would recommend this hotel to anyone."
Mark 1-night trip
Posted 10 hours ago
RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO

THE BLOSSOM KYOTO

10/10 Excellent
"Spacious rooms, great location."
Nicolas 4-night trip
Posted 21 hours ago
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo

Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo

8/10 Good
"Good property. Excellent breakfast. Good shopping and easy access to public transport."
Lynda 2-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
Yumotokan

Yumotokan

10/10 Excellent
"Fasntastic place to relax at. We were picked up at the train station and ushured into a relaxing lounge which we had unlimited access to for the duration of our stay, including the drinks and snacks, The check in process was very smooth and our bags were waiting for us in our room when we got there. We booked the in-room Onsen that we practically lived in. It was initially a bit hot for our liking but the staff were able to adjust it for us. We had an amazing nine course dinner that showcased the local produce. and the breakfast buffet was also briliant. Overall a very relaxing and comfortable stay with fantastic staff and would definitely come back."
Herbert 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Yumotokan
Satoyu Mukashibanashi Yuzanso Ryokan

Satoyu Mukashibanashi Yuzanso Ryokan

10/10 Excellent
"Great food and beautiful location"
Paxton 2-night trip
Posted 10 days ago
Satoyu Mukashibanashi Yuzanso Ryokan

More cheap stays in Otsu

The Pocket Hotel Kyoto-karasumagojo

The Pocket Hotel Kyoto-karasumagojo

423 Matsuyacho Shimogyo-ku Kyoto Kyoto Prefecture
P3,563
P3,920 total
Oct 18 - Oct 19
9.2/10 Wonderful! (567 reviews)
The Pocket Hotel Kyoto-karasumagojo
Sakura Terrace The Atelier

Sakura Terrace The Atelier

1-1, Higashikujo, Kitakarasuma-cho Kyoto Kyoto
P4,247
P4,671 total
Oct 25 - Oct 26
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,003 reviews)
Sakura Terrace The Atelier
Agora Place Kyoto Nijo

Agora Place Kyoto Nijo

25 Marutamachi, Nakagyo-ku Kyoto Kyoto
P4,482
P4,931 total
Nov 3 - Nov 4
Agora Place Kyoto Nijo
Smile Hotel Kyoto karasumagojo

Smile Hotel Kyoto karasumagojo

396-3 Osakacho Kyoto Kyoto
P4,960
P5,456 total
Oct 25 - Oct 26
8.2/10 Very Good! (481 reviews)
Smile Hotel Kyoto karasumagojo
The Millennials Kyoto

The Millennials Kyoto

235 Yamazakicho, Nakagyo-ku Kyoto Kyoto
P5,421
P5,963 total
Oct 19 - Oct 20
9.4/10 Exceptional! (749 reviews)
The Millennials Kyoto
Tsukimi Hotel

Tsukimi Hotel

21 Tsukimicho Kyoto Kyoto
Get rates
9/10 Wonderful! (190 reviews)
Tsukimi Hotel

Find out more about Otsu

Top reasons to visit Otsu

  • Stunning Lake Biwa: Otsu boasts the beautiful Lake Biwa, perfect for leisurely strolls and picturesque views.
  • Cultural Temples and Shrines: Explore various temples and shrines that offer insights into the region's rich history and spirituality.
  • Serene Beaches: Relax on the tranquil beaches along Lake Biwa, ideal for a romantic getaway.
  • Luxurious Accommodations: Enjoy a range of accommodation options, from hotels to charming guesthouses, perfect for all visitors.
  • Outdoor Activities: Engage in various outdoor activities, catering to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Find great hotels near Otsu

Discover a delightful array of accommodation options in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, catering to diverse needs and preferences. From welcoming hotels ideal for families and LGBTQIA travellers to charming guesthouses, Otsu offers a memorable stay. Indulge in hot spring themed experiences while enjoying proximity to stunning natural attractions. Whether searching for a luxurious hotel or a cosy retreat, Otsu has something for everyone.

  • Cross Hotel Kyoto: Cross Hotel Kyoto presents a unique eco-friendly theme, appealing to environmentally conscious travellers. With a commendable 3.5-star rating and a guest score of 9.6, this hotel is situated 16km from Otsu. It boasts an array of sustainable practices, ensuring a minimal carbon footprint while providing a comfortable and stylish stay. Guests can relish in modern amenities, including contemporary rooms designed for relaxation, all while enjoying the satisfaction of knowing they are contributing to eco-certification efforts.
  • The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo: This elegant 4-star hotel, rated 9.2 by guests, is also located 16km from Otsu and embodies refined comfort with a touch of luxury. The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo offers a variety of dining options, including a delightful restaurant and bar, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Entertainment amenities like digital and flat-screen televisions enhance the guest experience, while the proximity to the city centre attracts those eager to immerse themselves in Kyoto's vibrant culture and sights.
  • Hotel Gran Ms Kyoto: Located in the heart of the city, Hotel Gran Ms Kyoto is ideal for visitors seeking a city-themed getaway. This 3.5-star accommodation, with a guest rating of 9.0, is positioned 16km from Otsu, making it a convenient base for urban exploration. The hotel's contemporary design and comfortable rooms provide a relaxing retreat after a day spent enjoying the city's attractions. With its central location, guests can easily access various shops, eateries, and cultural sites, making it a practical choice for city enthusiasts.

Where to stay in and around Otsu

Otsu, a charming city in Shiga Prefecture, offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and romantic scenery. Visitors can explore the serene beaches along Lake Biwa, experience the local culture, and indulge in luxurious accommodations. Nearby attractions provide a friendly atmosphere perfect for families, while the city's unique vibe invites relaxation and exploration. Don't miss the stunning views from Inase and the cultural richness of One Otsu, making this destination truly unforgettable.

  • Kyoto: A vibrant metropolis located 16km from Otsu, Kyoto is a treasure trove of cultural heritage and modern attractions. Known for its historical significance, the city draws visitors throughout the year, with peak seasons in April and October to November. Travellers flock to Kyoto for family, city-themed, and business experiences. The city's bustling shopping areas and lively public markets offer a delightful blend of traditional and contemporary, while local landmarks such as theme parks, historic sites, and soothing onsens provide memorable experiences for all.
  • Moriyama: Just 5km from Otsu, Moriyama is a charming city that captivates with its stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities. Although visitor numbers are fairly consistent year-round, they peak in March to April and July. Perfect for romantic getaways and outdoor enthusiasts, Moriyama offers fantastic venues for body treatments, skiing, and skiing fields. The picturesque lakes, relaxing onsens, and rejuvenating hot springs in the area are ideal for those seeking tranquillity and adventure in tandem.
  • Minami-komatsu: Nestled within the Otsu area, Minami-komatsu is a quaint village that enchants visitors with its serene atmosphere and scenic views. Also experiencing consistent visitor numbers throughout the year, peaks occur in April and October to November. This village is a haven for outdoor lovers and couples alike, featuring ski resorts, shopping centres, and malls that cater to diverse interests. Local attractions such as tranquil lakes, informative museums, and breathtaking lookouts provide a peaceful yet enriching experience for all who venture here.

Things to do near Otsu

Shopping

In Otsu, visit the Otsu Shopping Street, where you'll find local crafts and delicious snacks. If you're up for a drive, check out the Aeon Lake Biwa Shopping Centre, about 19km away, offering a variety of shops and dining options for a more extensive shopping experience.

Recreation

In Otsu, the Biwako Hotel offers serene onsen baths with views of Lake Biwa, ideal for relaxation. Nearby, the Hoshino Resorts KAI provides traditional Japanese ryokan experiences, featuring kaiseki dining and soothing hot springs, immersing you in the tranquil beauty of the region.

Adventure

Experience breathtaking views at Mt. Hachiman Castle Ruins Lift, located 18km from Otsu. This cable car journey offers a thrilling ascent amidst lush landscapes. Alternatively, the Mt. Otokoyama Cable Car, 31km away, provides an exhilarating ride surrounded by nature, ideal for families seeking adventure.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife in Otsu by visiting the lively Shiga Prefectural Art Theatre for cultural performances. Afterwards, unwind at the nearby Bar Suncatcher, where you can enjoy creative cocktails and mingle with locals in a relaxed atmosphere.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Otsu

For a budget-friendly visit to Otsu, plan your trip between January to February or September for lower accommodation rates. Book your hotel about a month in advance, and consider Tuesday for the cheapest stay. Explore last-minute deals on Expedia for spontaneous plans. Utilise the site's search tools to filter by budget and compare room rates for the best savings. Combining your hotel with flights and activities in an Expedia package can also reduce costs. Don’t forget to seek out free activities in the area to enhance your experience without overspending.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Otsu are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Otsu about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Otsu is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Otsu is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to tailor your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel booking in Otsu with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Otsu

Otsu, nestled in Shiga Prefecture, is perfect for an outdoor, romantic getaway with stunning scenery. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including temples, shrines, and art museums, catering to those seeking cultural and family experiences. Key highlights include the beautiful Lake Biwa and the scenic Otsu Harbour, offering a delightful blend of nature and heritage for an unforgettable holiday.

  • Kyoto Imperial Palace: Located 14km from Otsu, this historic palace showcases stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, offering a glimpse into Japan's imperial past. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, immersing themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the area.
  • Kurama Hot Spring: Situated 13km from Otsu, this serene hot spring provides a rejuvenating experience amid nature. The outdoor baths, surrounded by lush greenery, are ideal for relaxation and wellness, making it a perfect retreat after a day of exploration.
  • Lake Biwa Bridge: Only 5km from Otsu, this impressive structure offers picturesque views of Lake Biwa. The bridge serves as a cultural landmark, connecting you to the surrounding natural beauty and local history.

Best time to go to Otsu

The best time to visit Otsu is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January37.6°F (3.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February39.2°F (4.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March45.9°F (7.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May63.9°F (17.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.5°F (21.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July78.1°F (25.6°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
August80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September73.0°F (22.8°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
October62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
December42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Otsu

Flying into Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, is convenient with several major airports nearby. Osaka's Kansai International Airport (KIX) is 95km away, with excellent hotel options such as the 4-star Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, located 161m from the airport. Nagoya's Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) is 87km away, featuring the 4-star Kamenoi Hotel Chitamihama, 10km from the airport. Kobe Airport (UKB) is 80km away, with notable hotels like the 5-star ANA Crowne Plaza Kobe, situated 8km from the airport. Each hotel provides accessible transportation services to their respective airports, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best place for a stay in Otsu?
Based on our traveler data, Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel is one of the top choices for your stay. This hotel is a short 5-minute walk from Lake Biwa, and it offers a golf course and 4 restaurants. Other good options for your stay include Smile Hotel Otsu Seta and Yumotokan. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Otsu.
What's the top vacation rental that Otsu has to offer?
KINOTOMI OMIMAIKO - Self Check-In Only: Visitors give good reviews to this Otsu vacation home rental, which is located in a rural location and has a private balcony, a barbecue grill, and air-conditioning to put you at ease in your new surroundings. Kitchen amenities include a full-sized fridge, a dishwasher, and a stovetop. See all vacation rentals in Otsu.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Otsu, will I receive a refund?
Yes! You'll find that most room reservations are fully refundable if you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline, which in most cases is within 24 or 48 hours of check in. If your reservation is non-refundable, you might be able to still cancel and receive a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Otsu.
What's the best budget-friendly accommodation in Otsu?
Based on our traveler reviews, Youth Hostel WANIHIMA~Lakeside BIWA is a top choice for a less expensive stay. Another top choice for your stay on the cheap is J-Hoppers Lake Biwa Guesthouse - Hostel. View all budget hotels in Otsu.
What's the best LGBTQ-friendly accommodation in Otsu?
Smile Hotel Otsu Seta is a top LGBTQ-friendly hotel, and features free WiFi and free internet. Koke Musu inn is another good choice for your stay. See all available hotels listed as LGBTQ-friendly in Otsu.
What's the best pet-friendly hotel in Otsu?
Biwako Mastunoura Bettei is a top dog-friendly ryokan, and offers a restaurant along with private hot tubs for its human guests. See more pet-friendly hotel accommodations in Otsu.
What's the best accommodation for a beach vacation in Otsu?
View Lodge Biwa is a top beach hotel with free WiFi and free parking, and it's located on Manohama Beach. Youth Hostel WANIHIMA~Lakeside BIWA is another good option to stay near the beach. See more stays near the beach in Otsu.
What are some accommodations with pools in Otsu?
Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel: Hotel, 5-minute walk from Lake Biwa. Features a children's pool, a seasonal outdoor pool, and 4 restaurants. Satoyu Mukashibanashi Yuzanso Ryokan and Biwako Hotel are two additional hotels with an onsite pool. View all hotels with pools in Otsu.
What is the best spa hotel in Otsu?
Yumotokan is a top spa hotel with 65 rooms, free WiFi, and an arcade/game room. Spend an afternoon at the spa where you'll find massage treatments. Other popular spa hotels in Otsu include Biwako Ryokusuitei and Ogoto Onsen Yunoyado Komolebi. See all spa hotels in Otsu.
How is it to stay in Otsu?
Visitors to Otsu are sure to enjoy the lakeside setting and hot springs. Tourists can also enjoy so much more including its temples. In Otsu, there are 66 hotels and other accommodations to choose from. Find out more about Otsu.
What is there to see in Otsu?
Cultural venues include Mount Hiei, Biwako Hall, and Otsu City Science Museum. Attractions like Biwako Otsukan and Hiratopia are fun for everyone. Landmarks like Hiei-zan & Enryaku-ji, Enryakuji Temple, and Mii-dera might be worth a visit. Check out what more to see and do in Expedia's Otsu guide.
What's the best way to get around Otsu?
If you'd like to explore more of the area, ride aboard a train from Ogotoonsen station, Biwako-Hamaotsu Station, or Kamisakaemachi Station. If you want to venture out around the area, you may want a rental car in Otsu for your journey.
What's the weather like in Otsu?
The hottest months are usually August and July with an average temp of 75°F, while the coldest months are January and February with an average of 41°F. The rainiest months in Otsu are July, September, June, and August, with each month seeing an average of 9 inches of rainfall.

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