Find hotels in Otsu from CA $23

Top reasons to visit Otsu

• Scenic Lake Biwa: Enjoy stunning views and outdoor activities around Japan's largest freshwater lake, perfect for strolls and picnics.
• Cultural Exploration: Discover Otsu's rich heritage through its ancient temples, shrines, and art museums.
• Convenient Kyoto Access: Take a quick day trip to the historic city of Kyoto for exceptional sightseeing.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in activities like skiing, stargazing, and basketball in beautiful surroundings.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels tailored to every traveler's needs.

Find great hotels in Otsu

Explore a diverse selection of hotel accommodations in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious five-star establishments. Whether you're seeking family-friendly amenities, rejuvenating hot spring experiences, or opulent stays, Otsu has something for every traveller. Discover the best hotels in Otsu for your perfect getaway, ensuring a memorable experience in this picturesque Japanese city.

• Cross Hotel Kyoto: Located 16.1km from Otsu, Cross Hotel Kyoto is a stylish 3.5-star hotel that provides a contemporary urban experience. Guests can indulge in a variety of dining options, including the lively SelectDays restaurant for breakfast and lunch, as well as a bar for evening relaxation. The hotel features modern entertainment amenities such as flat-screen TVs, ensuring that you’re well-entertained during your stay. With nearby attractions like the bustling shopping district and scenic boardwalk, it’s the perfect base for exploring the vibrant city life.
• The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo: A sophisticated 4-star accommodation, The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo is also 16.1km from Otsu and offers a touch of elegance. Enjoy a delightful dining experience with options for breakfast and lunch, as well as a buffet breakfast that caters to various tastes. The well-appointed rooms come equipped with digital and flat-screen TVs for your entertainment. Situated near the city centre, guests can easily explore Kyoto’s rich cultural offerings, making it an ideal choice for discerning travellers seeking comfort and convenience.
• Hotel Gran Ms Kyoto: For those seeking a city-themed vacation, Hotel Gran Ms Kyoto is an excellent 3.5-star option located 16.1km from Otsu. Nestled in the heart of the city, this hotel is tailored for guests who want to immerse themselves in urban life. The well-designed rooms provide a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring, and the central location means you're never far from local attractions and dining options. Guests appreciate the hotel’s modern amenities and proximity to the vibrant city atmosphere, ensuring a memorable stay.

Where to stay in Otsu

Otsu, nestled by the stunning shores of Lake Biwa, offers a perfect blend of romance and outdoor adventures. Just minutes from Kyoto, this charming city boasts beautiful scenery and rich culture. Explore the serene temples, enjoy lakeside strolls, and indulge in local delicacies. Nearby neighborhoods invite family-friendly excursions and friendly atmospheres, making Otsu an ideal base to experience Japan’s natural beauty and vibrant culture.

• Kyoto: A vibrant metropolis located 16.1km from Otsu, Kyoto is a treasure trove of culture and history. This city attracts travellers year-round, with peak seasons in April, October, and December. Visitors come for family-friendly experiences, city exploration, and business trips. Dive into the shopping areas and lively markets, and don’t miss the chance to visit local landmarks like historic sites and theme parks. Kyoto’s unique charm lies in its ability to blend the past with the present, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in traditional Japanese culture.
• Ogoto: Nestled close to Otsu, Ogoto is a serene neighborhood perfect for those seeking wellness and relaxation. The area sees a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, with peaks in February, July, and September. Travellers flock here for cultural experiences and outdoor activities, including rejuvenating body treatments and thrilling ski adventures at nearby resorts. The highlight of Ogoto is its famous onsens and hot springs, where you can unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the surrounding lakes. This tranquil environment makes Ogoto an ideal retreat for relaxation enthusiasts.
• Minami-komatsu: Located within the Otsu area, Minami-komatsu is a quaint village that offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and romance. While visitor numbers remain consistent throughout the year, April and October to November see a noticeable uptick. This destination is perfect for those who love skiing and exploring the great outdoors, with ski fields and lifts readily accessible. In addition to outdoor fun, the village boasts stunning lookouts and museums, providing a picturesque backdrop for romantic getaways and adventurous outings. Discover the charm of Minami-komatsu and create unforgettable memories.

Things to do in Otsu

Otsu, located in Shiga Prefecture, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and romantic scenery. Visitors can enjoy activities like body treatments, stargazing at the planetarium observatory, and skiing at nearby resorts. Don’t miss the opportunity to play basketball in Otsu, join the Biwako Otsu official tour, and take a day trip to Kyoto to explore its stunning sights and experiences.

Shopping

For shopping in Otsu, check out Pieri Moriyama Mall, only 4.8km away, offering a variety of family-friendly stores. If you're up for a drive, Pontocho Alley, 16.1km away, features a unique blend of entertainment and local culture, perfect for souvenirs and gifts.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Kyoto Concert Hall, only 12.9km from Otsu, where you can enjoy captivating music performances. For a serene escape, visit Yabasekihan Island Park, located 9.7km away, perfect for relaxation amidst nature. Ritto-city Yasu River Athletic Park, 11.3km from Otsu, offers recreational activities for wellness seekers.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of winter sports at Biwako Valley Ski Resort, where you can ski and enjoy the great outdoors. For a family-friendly adventure, take the Mt. Hachiman Castle Ruins Lift, offering stunning views and a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape, located 17.7km from Otsu.

Nightlife

In Otsu, Biwako Hall offers an enchanting atmosphere with its cultural performances, perfect for a romantic night out. For a family-friendly experience, the Astronomical Observation Center and Hotaru Planetarium provide entertaining stargazing opportunities, creating memorable evenings for visitors of all ages.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Otsu

When visiting Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, save money by exploring free attractions like Nishiki Market, Pontocho Alley, and Hanamikoji Street. For transportation, trains and buses are generally more economical than taxis. The best times to visit for lower prices are January to February and September, with Tuesdays being the least expensive nights to stay. When booking, aim for a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Combine hotel reservations with flights for extra savings, and use filters to find eco-friendly accommodations that fit your budget.

• 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Otsu is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• 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: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save on your travel expenses by combining your Otsu hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Otsu

Otsu, located in Shiga Prefecture, Japan, offers a charming blend of outdoor activities and romantic scenery, making it an ideal vacation spot. Visitors can explore various temples, shrines, and art museums that celebrate the region's rich culture. Families will find engaging experiences, while the Otsu Tourist Information Centre is a valuable resource for planning your adventures in this picturesque area.

• Kyoto University: Immerse yourself in the rich academic atmosphere of one of Japan's most prestigious universities. The stunning architecture and tranquil gardens offer a unique glimpse into Japanese educational culture, making it an inspiring visit for anyone interested in history and academia.
• Kyoto Imperial Palace: Step back in time at the former residence of the Imperial family. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, this site is a testament to Japan's imperial history and culture, providing a serene escape from the bustling city.
• Kyoto International Conference Centre: Experience the modern side of Kyoto at this state-of-the-art venue, ideal for conferences and events. The sleek design and surrounding greenery create a unique atmosphere for both business and leisure, showcasing Kyoto's blend of tradition and innovation.

Best time to go to Otsu

Visitor numbers in Otsu is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Otsu can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Otsu falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Otsu falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	37.6°F (3.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	39.2°F (4.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
August	80.2°F (26.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
October	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
December	42.1°F (5.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Otsu

When planning your trip to Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, you have several airport options for arrival. Kansai International Airport (KIX) is 95.0km from Otsu, with nearby hotels like the 4-star Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, just 161m away, and the Star Gate Hotel Kansai Airport, 6.4km distant. Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) is 56.4km away, offering accommodations such as the Kamenoi Hotel Chitamihama, 9.7km from the airport. Additionally, Itami Airport (ITM) is 36.4km from Otsu, with luxury options like the 5-star Swissotel Nankai Osaka, located 14.5km away. Each airport provides various transportation services to facilitate your journey.