Check out these articles
-
Video article 1:58
Experience the World's Most Advanced Gold Leaf Technology at the Foil Museum in Kanazawa, Ishikawa. The Inside of the Facility Is Covered in Gold, From Golden Armor, to a Gold Leaf Room, and Even Gold Leaf Ice Cream!
Traditional Crafts- 66 plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 6:40
Easy-To-Make Origami Cranes That Both Kids and Adults Can Enjoy! Origami Is a Japanese Art That Turns Squares of Paper Into Beautiful 3D Works of Art!
Traditional CultureThings to DoHistory- 216 plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 4:17
Marugame Uchiwa Fans Are Works of Art Whose Craft Has Been Passed Down in Kagawa Prefecture Since the Edo Period. A Look at the History and Production Process of the Amazing Craft, Which Is a Great Souvenir for Visitors to Konpira Shrine
Traditional CraftsThings to Do- 158 plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 18:25
Hieizan Enryakuji Temple in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture, has long been revered as a sacred mountain, and the entire mountain is a sanctuary with hidden power!What is the history of Hieizan and how to visit the more than 100 halls in the mountain?
TravelArt & Architecture- 115 plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 5:31
Create Your Summer Memories in the Great Outdoors. Activities at Hokkaido Rusutsu Resort in Hokkaido's Abuta District Make for an Enjoyable Trip for the Whole Family!
Things to DoTravel- 214 plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 1:00
Experience Japanese Kimono Culture at Nishijin-ori Kaikan in Kyoto! A must stop for those who want to experience traditional culture during sightseeing in Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture!
Things to DoShopping- 124 plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 4:54
A Look at Various Traditional Crafts That Have Been Handed Down From Generation to Generation in Various Parts of Japan as Well as Their Craftsmanship and Artistic Beauty
Traditional CultureTraditional CraftsHistory- 68 plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 3:43
Ome City, TokyoOme City, TokyoOme City, Tokyo, one hour from the center of Tokyo, surrounded by great nature, experience Ome's sightseeing spots in this video! Full of activities, gourmet food and attractions! Experience the sightseeing spots in Ome, surrounded by great nature, in this video! Full of activities, gourmet food, and attractions!
TravelNatureFood & Drink- 50 plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 7:21
Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture, Is Steeped in History and Culture. Enjoy Kusatsu City as Introduced by Local Idols and Mascots!
Local PRTravel- 53 plays
- YouTube
Shiga Otsu City Sightseeing! Full of installations with a sense of Japanese tradition! Video introduction to the nature and cityscape of ancient times!
Video introduction of sightseeing in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture
This video shows a man traveling from Otsu, Shiga to Kyoto, while touring historic temples, enjoying natural scenery, and interacting with locals on an atmospheric shopping street.
Otsu is home to Lake Biwa, the largest freshwater lake in Japan, and Biwako Valley, a resort complex that offers panoramic views of Lake Biwa from 1,100-meters in the air. It's a treasure trove of tourist attractions, with everything from nature to photogenic townscapes that capture the long history of the area, and can be enjoyed by children and adults alike.
Enryakuji and Other Famous Temples Around Otsu, Shiga
Besides Enryakuji Temple on Mt. Hiei (Mt. Hiezan), the Lake Biwa area is dotted with many famous and historic temples. In addition to Enryakuji Temple, we recommend visiting Omi Shrine (近江神宮, Omi Jingu), Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine, and other power spots as well.
[Video] 0:14 - Walking the Nyoi Kodo to Miidera Temple
●Enryakuji Temple
Enryakuji Temple is the head temple of the Tendai sect of Buddhism with a history dating back more than 1,200 years. It's said that monks and warrior monks have been coming here to study since ancient times, and the temple has produced famous monks, including as Honen and Shinran. It's a recommended power spot where visitors can experience a moment of clarity and confidence.
●Miidera Temple
One of the most famous of Shiga Prefecture's ancient temples. It's also known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring. Climbing the stone steps, there's an observatory from which you can view the majestic Lake Biwa.
The spacious temple grounds are home to many national treasures and stone walls using a unique type of masonry. Many of Japan's most notable cultural assets can be found here.
●Saikyoji Temple
The head temple of the Tendai Shinmori Sect of Buddhism, which has more than 450 branch temples throughout Japan. It's said to have been founded by Prince Shotoku.
The main hall of the temple is sublime, and the Kyakuden (reception hall), which was built from the remains of Fushimi Castle, has many attractions, including fusuma paintings of by the Kano school, a famous school of painting prominent in 15th century Japan. Akechi Mitsuhide, who contributed to the restoration of Saikyoji Temple after it suffered damage during the Siege of Mt. Hiei in 1571, is enshrined at Saikyoji Temple, along with the tombs of his relatives.
●Omi Shrine
Omi Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Tenchi, who is said to be the founder of the Hyakunin Isshu Karuta, an ancient card game involving classical Japanese poetry, and attracts many visitors each year. The shrine is said to bring prosperity to business, ward off bad luck, ensure safe childbirth, bring academic success, protect one's family, cure illnesses, and protect against traffic accidents, among other blessings. Surrounded by greenery, the main approach to the shrine is a soothing space.
●Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine
Located at the foot of Mt. Hiei, this is the head shrine of the Hiyoshi, Hie, and Sanno shrines, of which more than 3,800 exist in Japan. Since the shrine was located in an unlucky direction from the capital during the Heian period (794-1185), it's known for its blessings to ward off bad luck and evil spirits.
A monkey named Masaru is said to be a messenger of the gods at the shrine, and symbolizes protection against evil, and charms and amulets with Masaru are also sold at the shrine.
Immerse Yourself in the Ancient History and Culture of Otsu
After touring famous ancient temples, you can experience the culture passed down to the common people of Otsu.
Otsu-e, an art form popular among commoners during the Edo period (1603-1867), has a unique design that many visitors find attractive. You can also try your hand at painting clay bells resembling oni (Japanese ogre demons). Also, be sure to visit the Otsu Festival Float Exhibition Center, an exhibition hall themed on the Otsu Festival, one of the three major festivals in the area.
In Otsu Hyakucho, visitors can enjoy a tour of traditional shops where they can buy a wide variety of souvenirs. Along the way, you can find the famous Miidera Chikara Mochi rice cakes.
A map of Otsu Hyakucho is also available, so you can enjoy exploring the town without a guide.
That being said, you can also take advantage of the guided tours of Otsu Hyakucho. It is a unique opportunity to experience the unique culture of Otsu.
[Video] 0:48 - Sightseeing Around Otsu Hyakucho
A Model Course for Sightseeing in Otsu
If you want to enjoy Otsu to the fullest, we recommend taking a tour of the temples and shrines to experience the history of Otsu. You can also visit Miidera Temple, which appears in the video.
[Video] 0:38 - Miidera Temple
There's also a course specifically for female photographers, which includes Saikyoji Temple, where participants can stroll around photogenic temples, and more.
[Video] 2:04 - Saikyoji Temple
If you're looking to enjoy the beautiful scenery in the area, check out Mt. Hiei and enjoy a sanctuary in the sky where the entire mountain is considered part of the temple. Shuttle buses are available to take visitors around the mountain. Travelers can also collect shuin stamps from the different temples, up to a dozen of them.
There are also courses related to famous historical figures, such as Akechi Mitsuhide. Be sure to check them out!
Sushi, Confectioneries, and More – Experience the Cuisine of Otsu!
Funa-zushi is one of the most popular dishes in Otsu. Sakamoto-ya is a long-established shop that sells funa-zushi, and is designated as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan.
Sakamotoya's funa-zushi is made with a rare species of wild carp from Lake Biwa, and local Omi rice. We hope you will enjoy this traditional Japanese food made with a time-tested family recipe.
[Video] 0:53 - Ganso Sakamotoya
In Otsu, there's also Yaoyo, a shop that sells pickled vegetables under the Imperial Household Agency's warrant. This store was established in 1850 and has been around since the Edo period. In addition to its pickled vegetables, the shop also sells its specialty Nagarazuke, which are Omi turnips pickled in sake lees, for just a few hundred yen per bunch. You can also buy in bulk for souvenirs.
[Video] 1:03 - Yaoyo
If you're a fan of traditional Japanese sweets, consider dropping by Kano Shojuan Sunai no Sato (叶匠寿庵 寿長生の郷). On the expansive garden-like grounds, there is an atmospheric traditional Japanese-style teahouse, a restaurant, and a confectionery shop as well. Enjoy the delicate sweets made from carefully selected ingredients and the greenery outside the window.
Experience the seasons and indulge your senses in a relaxing environment.
[Video] 1:34 - Kano Shojuan Sunai no Sato
Hirasansou offers Yamanobe Ryori, a type of cuisine that uses seasonal ingredients foraged from the nearby mountains of Otsu. Visitors can enjoy wild vegetables in spring, sweetfish in summer, matsutake mushrooms in autumn, and wild boar and bear in winter. The restaurant utilizes a wide variety of delicious ingredients nurtured in Japan's Shiga region.
[Video] 1:46 - Hirasansou
Hotel Koo Otsu Hyakucho – A Traditional Japanese Townhouse Turned Hotel
While you're in Otsu, use this opportunity to stay at a hotel with a different kind of atmosphere. Hotel Koo Otsu Hyakucho is located inside of a shopping arcade. This is an accommodation facility with a new concept that opened in August 2018.
Guest rooms are scattered along the shopping street and the Old Tokaido Road, with a total of 13 rooms consisting of 5 suite-type rooms and 8 hotel-type guest rooms. The townhouses, which are more than 100 years old, have been fully renovated. All rooms are equipped with bathrooms and toilets, famous designer furniture, and top-quality bedding, allowing guests to experience a luxury space that cannot be found in ordinary hotels or ryokan.
[Video] 1:18 - Hotel Koo Otsu Hyakucho
Summary of Sightseeing in Otsu, Shiga
In addition to Lake Biwa, Otsu, Shiga is a hidden treasure trove of wonderful sightseeing spots that have yet to be fully recognized.
Otsu is a town where time seems to have stood still, as it still retains the atmosphere of a Japan from a bygone era. There are plenty of natural recreational activities for children as well as adults, as well as photogenic tours for women, and even stylish date plans. We hope you get the chance to experience Otsu, a place with unique history and traditions, unlike the neighboring city of Kyoto.
【TripAdvisor】Otsu, Shiga
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g298202-Otsu_Shiga_Prefecture_Kinki-Vacations.html
AccessMap (Google Maps)
-
Miidera Temple00:00:38–246 Onjojicho, Otsu, Shiga
-
Ganso Sakamotoya00:00:53–1-5-21 Nagara, Otsu, Shiga
-
Otsu Festival Hikiyama Exhibition Hall00:00:59–1-2-27 Central, Otsu, Shiga
-
Yaoyo00:01:04–2-9-4 Nagara, Otsu, Shiga
-
HOTEL Koo Otsu Hyakucho00:01:18–1-2-6 Central, Otsu, Shiga
-
Kanou Shojuan Sunainosato00:01:34–4-2-1 Oishiryumon, Otsu, Shiga
-
Hirasansou00:01:46–94 Katsuragawabomuracho, Otsu, Shiga
-
Saikyoji Temple00:02:04–5-13-1 Sakamoto, Otsu, Shiga
-
Enryakuji Temple00:02:23–4220 Sakamotohonmachi, Otsu, Shiga
-
Video article 4:39
Aogashima - A Beautiful Island Paradise South of Tokyo. Enjoy a Vacation Exploring the Attractions of the Amazing Island
Travel Nature- 887 plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 1:28
Kofuku Station in Obihiro City, Hokkaido, is a sacred place for lovers! The station building that caused a huge boom is still a popular tourist spot loved by many people.
Travel- 84 plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 4:03
The Video That's Making Headlines Around the World! This Video Introduction to Japan, Which Captures the Eyes of Viewers Moment by Moment, Is Both High Quality and Inspiring!
Travel Things to Do Modern Culture- 5.46K plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 4:03
You've Never Seen a View Quite Like This! The Beautiful Tulip Fields Covering Alps Azumino National Government Park in Azumino, Nagano Prefecture, Are a Sight You’ve Got to See to Believe!
Travel Local PR- 584 plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 5:06
The Kachi Daruma Dolls of Katsuoji Temple! Discover the Popular Dolls at the Temple in Minoh, Osaka!
Travel Art & Architecture- 162 plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 3:34
The Beautiful Neon Glow of Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo, the City That Never Sleeps! Be Intoxicated By the Mysterious Atmosphere of the Best Shopping District in the East!
Travel- 485 plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 2:35
The Beautiful Landscape of Kumano Kodo, A World Heritage Site in Wakayama Prefecture. This Historic Power Spot Is Full of Stone Steps and Sacred Waterfalls, Perfect for Your Instagram!
Travel- 1.11K plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 6:01
Kinosaki Onsen's 'Crab Kingdom' – Experience Mouthwatering Crab, Exciting Winter Events, and a Unique Contest in Hyogo Prefecture via Video!
Travel Food & Drink- 192 plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 4:31
Mishima Skywalk" in Mishima City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan! Full of fun things to do, including zip lines and athletic activities!
Travel Nature Things to Do- 112 plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 11:56
Located in Ise, Mie Prefecture, "Ninja Kingdom Ise" Is a Theme Park Full of Japanese History! You Can Learn About the History of Japan, Enjoy an Exciting Ninja Experience, and Even Enjoy Gourmet Cuisine! Enjoy a Trip Back to Japan's Sengoku Period!
Travel Art & Architecture History- 255 plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 16:12
Kawagoe - A City in Saitama Prefecture Full Of Fascinating Sights! Only an Hour From Tokyo, There's a Whole World of Retro Cityscapes To Explore Here!
Travel Local PR- 253 plays
- YouTube
-
Video article 2:06
The Beautiful Ruined Island, Gunkanjima, Now a World Heritage Site. The Amazing Island in Nagasaki Prefecture That Supported Japan’s Industrial Revolution, Attracts People From All Over the World!
Travel- 247 plays
- YouTube
3 Comments