Overview
Ōtsu (大津) is the capital of Shiga prefecture and serves as a quiet counterpoint to nearby Kyoto. The city is best known as the base for Enryaku-ji, a Tendai Buddhist monastery on Mount Hiei that is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.' Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake, lies just west of the city, offering cruises and lakeside scenery.
Day Trips · History · Lake · Nature
Before you go
Money
Japan uses Japanese Yen (¥). Most places accept cards, but small temples and local restaurants may be cash-only.
Transport
Otsu Station is the main hub, connected to Kyoto (10-15 min by train) and Nagoya. The Keihan Line also serves the city.
Weather
Summers are hot (25-32°C June-August) with high humidity. Winters are cold (0-10°C December-February) with occasional snow.
