10 Things to Do in Otsu City
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| 10 Things to Do in Otsu City |
Otsu (大津市) is the capital city of Shiga Prefecture, Japan. Established in 1889, Otsu officially became a city on October 1, 1898. The city is renowned for producing Otsu-e, a form of folk drawing that was a popular souvenir product during the Edo period. The kanji characters comprising its name, oo or dai (大) meaning "big or large" and tsu or shin (津) meaning "port or harbor" and in a figurative sense can also mean “connection or link”.
For those planning to visit the city to check what it has to offer, here are the 10 Things to Do in Otsu City:
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| Otsu City manhole covers |
1. Take a picture of the manhole covers of Otsu City. So far, I have seen 2 unique manhole covers. They are common around the city. A colored version is installed near Nagisa Park at the end of Chuo Odori.
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| Otsu City Pokemon Manhole Covers |
2. Take a picture of the Otsu City Pokemon Manhole Covers. There are two designs installed in the city. These are located at Southern Sunshine Beach and Nagisa Park.
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| Sunshine Beach |
3. Stroll around and enjoy the view of Lake Biwa from Sunshine Beach (サンシャインビーチ). While traditionally the term "beach" often brings to mind coastal areas by the ocean, it can also apply to sandy or pebbly shores along lakes and other bodies of water. Hence the name.
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| Zeze Castle Site Park |
4. In spring, consider visiting Zeze Castle Site Park (膳所城跡公園) for hanami and admire the stunning cherry blossoms. The park features a spacious plaza and play area, making it ideal for families with children. It offers a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.
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| Hiyoshi Taisha |
5. Visit the serene Hiyoshi Taisha (日吉大社). This shrine is dedicated to monkeys. The shrine complex is a popular destination in fall because of its beautiful autumn foliage. Remember to bring your goshuincho; you can collect a goshuin stamp at this shrine.
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| Otsu City Museum of History |
6. Explore the Otsu City Museum of History (大津市歴史博物館) for an enriching journey into the history of Otsu City. Discover numerous dioramas and cultural artifacts that vividly showcase its heritage.
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| Omi Jingu |
7. Visit the historic Omi Jingu (近江神宮). It’s a shrine that is famous for the competitive karuta tournament held every January. Aside from that, Emperor Tenji is also known to have installed Japan’s first water clock here. You can visit the Clock and Treasure Museum (近江神宮 時計館・宝物館) inside the shrine’s precincts. Remember to bring your goshuincho, as you can collect a goshuin stamp at this shrine.
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| Sakamoto Cable Car |
8. Ride the Sakamoto Cable Car (坂本ケーブル) from Cable Sakamoto Station (ケーブル坂本駅) to Cable Enryakuji Station (ケーブル延暦寺駅) up Mt. Hiei. Cable Enryakuji Station has an observation deck with an amazing view of Biwa Lake.
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| Nagisa Park |
9. Take a leisurely walk through Nagisa Park (なぎさ公園) and savor the picturesque views of Lake Biwa. Among the several Nagisa Parks in Otsu, the most recommended is located near Otsu Station at the end of Chuo Odori. If you visit on August 8th, you'll have the chance to witness the Lake Biwa Fireworks Festival. Additionally, if you're willing to spend, consider taking a Michigan Cruise from Otsu Port.
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| Enryakuji |
10. Visit the historic and sacred Enryakuji (延暦寺). This temple was built sometime in the 7th century. It is one of Japan's most important Buddhist monasteries, Enryakuji holds deep significance as the headquarters of the Tendai sect. Nestled on Mount Hiei overlooking Lake Biwa, it offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere conducive to meditation and reflection. Remember to bring your goshuincho, as you can collect a goshuin stamp at this temple.
I hope my list of the 10 Things to Do in Otsu City gave you an idea and inspiration to visit this scenic lakeside city in Shiga Prefecture.
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