Otsu Hotels

Top reasons to visit Otsu

• Stunning Lake Biwa: Enjoy the picturesque shores of Japan's largest lake, perfect for leisurely strolls and scenic views.
• Cultural Exploration: Discover ancient temples, shrines, and local art museums that showcase Otsu's rich heritage.
• Outdoor Activities: Engage in relaxing body treatments, skiing, and explore the planetarium observatory.
• Charming City Centre: Experience the friendly atmosphere and family-friendly attractions in Otsu's vibrant centre.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, catering to all preferences.

Find great hotels near Otsu

Explore a delightful range of hotel accommodations in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, catering to diverse needs and preferences. From family-friendly resorts to guesthouses that warmly welcome LGBTQIA travellers, Otsu offers a variety of lodging options. Enjoy the soothing hot springs and a commitment to accessibility, including accessible toilets and parking facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors.

• Cross Hotel Kyoto: Embracing a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, Cross Hotel Kyoto is perfect for LGBTQIA travellers seeking a vibrant vacation experience. Situated approximately 16.1km from Otsu, this 3.5-star hotel offers a stylish yet comfortable environment. Guests appreciate the modern amenities coupled with a commitment to diversity, making it an ideal choice for those looking to connect with like-minded individuals. The hotel is affiliated with LGBTQI travel guides, ensuring a supportive and friendly experience for all.
• The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo: This sophisticated 4-star hotel, located 16.1km from Otsu, offers a blend of comfort and elegance. Guests can indulge in delightful dining options, including a daily breakfast, bar, and restaurant. The property features entertainment facilities such as a flatscreen TV and digital channels, ensuring relaxation after a day of exploring. Its central location allows easy access to the vibrant city centre, making it perfect for those wishing to immerse themselves in Kyoto's rich culture and attractions.
• Hotel Gran Ms Kyoto: Positioned in the heart of the city, Hotel Gran Ms Kyoto is a 3.5-star accommodation that celebrates urban chic, appealing especially to LGBTQIA travellers. Roughly 16.1km from Otsu, this hotel combines modern design with a welcoming vibe. Its affiliation with LGBTQI travel guides highlights its commitment to inclusivity. Guests enjoy easy access to local attractions and the bustling city life, making it a fantastic base for urban explorers looking for comfort and style.

Where to stay in and around Otsu

Otsu, with its stunning scenery and romantic atmosphere, offers a delightful blend of culture and relaxation. Explore the beautiful shores of Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake, or take a short trip to the vibrant city of Kyoto, just a stone's throw away. Stroll through Otsu's charming city centre, where friendly locals and family-friendly attractions await. Whether you seek luxury or a budget-friendly experience, Otsu provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable holiday.

• Kyoto: A mere 16.1km from Otsu, Kyoto is a city steeped in history and culture. Renowned for its stunning temples and shrines, it attracts visitors year-round, particularly during the cherry blossom season in March to April and the vibrant autumn months of September. This city offers a delightful mix of family-friendly activities and business-themed experiences, making it a versatile destination. Wander through bustling shopping areas, explore traditional markets, and indulge in local cuisine. Notable landmarks such as Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Taisha add to the allure, while the city’s numerous onsens provide a perfect retreat after a day of exploration.
• Moriyama: Located just 4.8km from Otsu, Moriyama is a charming city that invites visitors to enjoy its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. With a steady stream of travellers throughout the year, it sees peaks in March to April and July. Ideal for those seeking a romantic getaway or an adventure in nature, Moriyama offers opportunities for skiing and body treatments, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and recreation. The stunning views of the nearby lake and the soothing atmosphere of local onsens and hot springs enhance the experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquillity of the surroundings.
• Ogoto: Nestled in the vicinity of Otsu, Ogoto is a delightful neighbourhood known for its wellness retreats and cultural experiences. Visitor numbers remain steady throughout the year, with peaks in February, July, and September. This area is perfect for those looking to unwind, offering body treatments and access to ski resorts. The natural beauty of the landscape is complemented by its proximity to calming onsens and hot springs, making it a haven for relaxation. Enjoy outdoor activities while immersing yourself in the local culture, creating a well-rounded experience in this serene setting.

Things to do in and around Otsu

Otsu, known for its stunning outdoor scenery and romantic atmosphere, offers a variety of activities for visitors. Enjoy body treatments, explore the planetarium observatory, or indulge in skiing. Key attractions include the Biwako Otsu official tour and the convention centre, ensuring a delightful experience in this beautiful part of Japan.

Shopping

In Otsu, visit Pieri Moriyama Mall, just 4.8km away, offering a vibrant mix of entertainment and shopping. If you're up for a drive, explore Pontocho Alley, located 16.1km away, where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with unique shops and local delights.

Recreation

Explore Nagisa Park for a serene walk along the lakeside, surrounded by nature, ideal for relaxation. Enjoy a cultural experience at Kyoto Concert Hall with live music performances that uplift your spirit. Alternatively, Ritto-city Yasu River Athletic Park offers outdoor activities and tranquil spaces for wellness and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Biwako Valley Ski Resort, where you can enjoy skiing amidst picturesque landscapes. For hikers, the Kurama - Kibune Hiking Trail offers an adventurous journey with stunning scenery, located 12.9km away from Otsu, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore Japan's natural beauty.

Nightlife

In Otsu, Biwako Hall offers a charming blend of culture and entertainment, perfect for a romantic evening. The Astronomical Observation Center and Hotaru Planetarium, both nearby, provide captivating stargazing experiences, making them ideal for an entertaining night out under the stars.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Otsu

To save money on your trip to Otsu, consider visiting in the cheaper months of January to February or September, and aim to book your hotel about a month in advance for better rates. Tuesdays typically offer the lowest accommodation prices, while Saturdays are the priciest. Utilise Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and sort by price to find the best deals. Additionally, consider combining your hotel stay with flights and activities for further savings. Don't forget to explore free activities around Otsu to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

• 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: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results by sorting the prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you view the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Otsu hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Otsu

Otsu offers a charming blend of outdoor activities and romantic scenery, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway. Visitors can explore a variety of cultural sites, including temples and shrines, as well as art museums that showcase local heritage. The attractions cater to families and those seeking enriching experiences, ensuring that travellers can enjoy both nature and culture in this picturesque Japanese city.

• Kyoto University: A prestigious institution, Kyoto University is renowned for its historic architecture and serene campus, located 12.9km from Otsu. Visitors can explore its beautiful gardens and experience the vibrant academic culture, making it a unique blend of history and education.
• Mount Hiei: Nestled within Otsu, Mount Hiei offers breathtaking views and spiritual significance, with the famous Enryaku-ji temple complex. The area is perfect for hiking and immersing oneself in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Japan.
• Kyoto International Conference Centre: Situated 11.3km from Otsu, this modern venue boasts impressive architecture and is a hub for international events. Experience the business vibes while enjoying the surrounding lush landscapes, ideal for networking and collaboration.

Best time to go to Otsu

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 visiting Otsu in Shiga Prefecture, you can conveniently fly into three major airports. Kansai International Airport (KIX) is located 95.0km away, with nearby hotels such as Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, just 161m from the terminal. Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO), 86.9km away, offers options like Centrair Hotel, only 161m from the airport. Lastly, Itami Airport (ITM) is positioned 54.7km from Otsu, with luxurious accommodations like the InterContinental Osaka, situated 11.3km from the airport. Each hotel provides various transportation services to ensure a smooth journey to and from the airports.