• Otsu Hyakuchokan - The Otsu Hyakucho-kan showcases the vibrant history of Otsu as a bustling post town on the Tōkaidō highway during the Edo period. Visitors can explore how the “one hundred districts” flourished with inns, teahouses, and shops catering to travelers between Kyoto and Edo. The museum’s exhibits and ambiance recreate the lively spirit of the town, making it an ideal starting point for discovering Otsu’s significance as a hub of commerce and hospitality.
• Sakamoto-ya - Sakamotoya is renowned as the birthplace of funazushi, a distinctive fermented fish dish crafted from freshwater fish from Lake Biwa. This delicacy, one of Japan’s oldest sushi forms, highlights the creativity of local culinary traditions and the strong bond between the lake and the people of Otsu. A visit to Sakamotoya offers travelers insight into the story of funazushi and the “Lake Country” traditions that have shaped life around Biwa for generations.
• Otsu Enomise - The Otsu-e shop maintains the last surviving tradition of Otsu-e, a folk art form that began in Otsu during the Edo period. Originally sold as Buddhist charms to travelers, these paintings evolved into humorous, satirical, and playful artworks often referred to as Japan’s “hidden pop art.” With their simple yet expressive lines, Otsu-e captivated the imagination of travelers. Visiting this shop provides a unique opportunity to witness this endangered art form and even acquire a piece of living history.
• Mii-dera Temple - Miidera, officially known as Onjo-ji Temple, stands as one of Japan’s prominent Buddhist temples and a spiritual landmark in Otsu. Its expansive grounds feature the Moon-Viewing Stage, the Hall of One Hundred Kannon, and the legendary “Evening Bell of Miidera,” celebrated in Japanese poetry and art. As visitors stroll through its temple halls, stone bridges, and sacred springs, they experience both the magnificence of its architecture and the richness of its spiritual traditions. Miidera exemplifies Otsu’s role as a religious city where history, devotion, and culture intersect.

• Visit to Otsu Hyakucho-kan with explanation of Otsu’s history as a post town
• Visit to an Otsu-e shop with explanation of Edo-period folk art
• Commentary on pilgrimage culture, local traditions, and Otsu’s role as a historic city
• Stop at Sakamotoya to learn about funazushi and Lake Biwa’s food culture
• Entry fee to Miidera (Onjo-ji Temple) including access to main halls and temple grounds
• Guided 3-hour walking tour of Otsu led by an experienced local guide

• Food and drinks
• Transportation to and from the meeting point

Embark on a captivating three-hour walking tour to delve into the vibrant history and culture of Otsu. Led by an expert local guide, witness Otsu’s evolution from a lively post town on the Tōkaidō highway to a spiritual hub by Lake Biwa. Experience the bustling atmosphere of commerce and hospitality at the Otsu Hyakucho-kan, indulge in the distinctive funazushi delicacy at Sakamotoya, and appreciate the unique Otsu-e art. The tour’s highlight is Miidera Temple, where ancient pathways and sacred sites narrate tales of devotion and culture.

• Enjoy a three-hour guided walking tour through Otsu’s historical landmarks
• Explore local specialties like funazushi and distinctive Otsu-e art
• Tour the esteemed Miidera Temple and its vast grounds
• Ideal for history aficionados and culture lovers

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.