Otsu’s 15 Best Tours (With Prices & Reviews)

Otsu might be best known as the gateway to Kyoto, but it’s also a destination that offers its own unique tapestry of experiences. Whether you want to get hands-on with Japanese cuisine, explore traditional folk art, or hike through sacred temples, Otsu’s diverse tours promise authentic encounters and unforgettable memories. For instance, a Private Japanese Home Cooking Class in Kyoto with Michiyo offers a rare chance to learn family recipes directly from a Kyoto native—an experience that combines culinary skills with personal stories. Meanwhile, a cultural walk and folk art workshop reveals the centuries-old tradition of Otsu-e painting that keeps local artisans busy today.

Otsu’s tours are as varied as they are rich. You’ll find everything from intimate home-cooking lessons and art workshops to scenic cable car rides and spiritual temple visits. Many tours are designed to give you a taste of local life, whether through food, craft, or spirituality.

1. Private Japanese Home Cooking Class in Kyoto with Michiyo

When traveling, few things beat sitting down to a homemade meal with a local. Michiyo opens her Kyoto home for a private Japanese cooking class that lasts about three hours. The experience is perfect for those who want to learn authentic Kyoto-style dishes like dashi (fish broth) and chirashi sushi using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Michiyo’s warm hospitality and ability to speak excellent English make the lesson accessible and personal. You’ll not only leave with new recipes but also a deeper appreciation for Japanese culinary traditions. The meal includes drinks, making it a relaxed, enjoyable experience.

Bottom line: If you love food and want an authentic cultural experience, this class offers great value and a chance to cook with a friendly local.

2. Otsu-e Folk Art Workshop & Local Culture Walk Near Kyoto

This tour, rated 5.0/5, is a rare chance to learn about Otsu-e, a traditional folk art that has been part of the local culture for 400 years. Led by Misato Takahashi, a passionate native and descendant of a master artist family, you’ll explore Otsu-e paintings and visit local spots like Mochihyo Mochihyo Japanese sweets shop and Hirai Shoten sake brewery. Along the way, you’ll see float displays from the Otsu Festival and sample local foods. The tour combines art, history, and local flavors, making it ideal for those interested in Japanese craftsmanship and regional traditions.

Bottom line: A perfect blend of art and culture, this tour is a must for art lovers or anyone wanting to understand Otsu’s artistic heritage firsthand.

3. Kyoto: Private Tour of World Heritage Enryakuji and Monk’s Town

This 3.5-hour private tour takes you from Mount Hiei’s sacred Enryaku-ji to the charming town of Sakamoto. Starting with the scenic ride on Japan’s longest cable car, you’ll reach the historic temple complex with its spiritual significance. The tour includes visits to Kyū Chikurinin Garden, a peaceful retreat once used by monks, and the bustling streets of Sakamoto, famous for its natural beauty and cultural spots. The guide shares insights into the Buddhist history and local life, making this an enriching experience.

Bottom line: If you’re interested in Japanese Buddhism and scenic mountain views, this tour offers a personalized, immersive day.

4. Otsu: Miidera Temple with the Spirit of Mount Hiei

Miidera Temple, on the shores of Lake Biwa, offers a peaceful historical setting with over 1,200 years of history. The Miidera Temple tour highlights the temple’s famed bronze bell and its Kannon Bodhisattva statue, along with views over Lake Biwa. The visit lasts about 1.5 hours and provides an authentic look into Japan’s religious architecture and spiritual landscape. You can extend your visit to nearby Enryaku-ji if you wish to continue exploring Mount Hiei’s spiritual sites.

Bottom line: A compact but meaningful visit for those interested in Buddhist temples and lake scenery.

5. Kyoto: World Heritage Enryakuji and Monk’s Town Private Tour

This 3.5-4.5 hour private adventure combines scenic mountain views and spiritual landmarks. Starting from Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine, you’ll visit the historic Chikurin-in Garden, then ascend Mount Hiei on the cable car. The journey culminates at Enryaku-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage site with centuries of religious importance. The guided visits focus on monastic life and the mountain’s natural beauty, making it ideal for those interested in Japanese religious history.

Bottom line: Perfect for history and spirituality buffs seeking a relaxed, comprehensive experience.

6. Night Gagaku Concert at Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Experience the ancient sounds of Gagaku, Japan’s oldest orchestral music, at Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine. The 1-hour evening concert offers a rare opportunity to enjoy live traditional music in a sacred setting. The performance includes insights into the instruments and philosophy behind the music, blending Shinto and Buddhist traditions. This intimate concert is ideal for those interested in musical history or seeking a peaceful cultural evening.

Bottom line: An atmospheric, educational experience for music lovers and culture enthusiasts.

7. Shiga: Otsu Bar Hopping with Local Food in Your Chosen Area

This guided bar-hopping tour is your ticket to Otsu’s lively nightlife, where you can sample Omi beef skewers, lake-fish tempura, and regional sake. The tour lasts around two hours, with ¥4,000 worth of food and drinks included. You’ll visit hidden taverns and modern venues that showcase local flavors and craft drinks. It’s ideal for those wanting to mingle and experience Otsu’s current social scene.

Bottom line: A fun, relaxed way to taste local cuisine and drinks while exploring Otsu’s vibrant nightlife.

8. Home Visit and Mochi Pounding Experience near Kyoto

Join your hosts for a homemade mochi-making session, where you can try fillings like red bean or Natto. The experience lasts about four hours, including a hot pot lunch with local chicken and vegetables. You’ll learn the traditional process of pounding rice and cooking sukiyaki, a famous Japanese hot-pot dish. This hands-on activity combines culinary skills with warm conversation, making it perfect for small groups or families.

Bottom line: If you want a full cultural and culinary day, this tour offers a fun, authentic connection.

9. Kyoto: Enryakuji Highlights – 2-Hour Sacred Express Tour

This quick, 2-hour tour focuses on Mount Hiei’s Enryaku-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most important Buddhist sites. After a scenic cable car ride, you’ll visit key areas within the temple complex, including some of its most historic halls. The guide shares insights into monastic traditions and the significance of the site in Japanese history. It’s a great option for those with limited time who want a focused, informative experience.

Bottom line: Ideal for visitors wanting a brief yet meaningful overview of Enryaku-ji.

10. Kyoto: Discover Mount Hiei’s Three Sacred Precincts

This comprehensive 5-hour tour takes you through all three sacred sites: Tōtō, Saitō, and Yokokawa. Traveling between them involves shuttle buses, and you’ll explore historic halls, enjoy mountain views, and walk through ancient forests. It’s perfect for those wanting an immersive spiritual journey and a chance to see the full scale of Mount Hiei’s religious landscape.

Bottom line: For serious pilgrims and history lovers, this full trek offers a deep dive into Japanese Tendai Buddhism.

11. Lake Biwa Casual E Bike Rental

Rent an electric bike and explore Japan’s largest lake at your own pace. With options from one to three days, you can visit places like the Miho Museum, the pottery town of Shigaraki, or follow historic routes like the Tokaido and Nakasendo highways. The bikes are designed for comfort and confidence, making hill climbs manageable. Local staff provide advice and support throughout your ride, which makes this a flexible, fun way to see the lakeside scenery.

Bottom line: A flexible, active way to experience Lake Biwa and nearby attractions for cycling enthusiasts or casual riders.

12. Otsu: Ishiyama-dera Sacred Stone Temple by Lake Biwa

This half-hour tour visits Ishiyama-dera, an ancient temple famous for its legend and stunning views. Located on Lake Biwa’s shores, the temple features a massive Main Hall, Kannon statue, and seasonal scenery that has inspired poets for centuries. The guided tour includes commentary on the temple’s spiritual significance and the mythology behind its origins. It’s a short, impactful visit perfect for those wanting a quick cultural fix.

Bottom line: An easy addition for visitors interested in Japanese legend and lake scenery.

13. Shiga Cycling Tour Southern Lake Biwa Loop

This 5-hour cycling tour covers about 55 km along the Biwaichi route, with optional detours into farmlands and mountain landscapes above Sakamoto. The route combines stretches of the official lake loop with quiet rural roads, offering scenic views of water and hills. It’s suitable for those with moderate fitness looking for a challenging ride that also takes in local sights and natural beauty.

Bottom line: A rewarding ride for cyclists wanting to see more of Lake Biwa’s landscape beyond the usual paths.

14. Shiga: Discover Otsu-e, Japan’s Hidden Edo Pop Art Tradition

This 1.5-hour tour explores Otsu-e art, a traditional Edo period style that often features humorous or satirical imagery. Visiting the Otsu Painting Museum and a working Otsu-e workshop, you’ll see how artisans continue these century-old techniques. You can even purchase your own piece of art. It’s an excellent choice for art lovers and those curious about regional folk culture.

Bottom line: A compact, engaging tour that offers insight into Japan’s lesser-known artistic traditions.

15. Shiga: Discover Otsu’s History, Culture, and Faith on Foot

This three-hour walking tour explores Otsu’s evolution from a Tōkaidō post town to a spiritual center. You’ll visit Miidera Temple, sample funazushi at Sakamotoya, and explore Otsu-e art at the Hyakuchokan Museum. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide shares stories of local faith and commerce that shaped the city. It’s a perfect tour for those wanting a comprehensive look at Otsu’s cultural fabric in a manageable timeframe.

Bottom line: Ideal for history and culture buffs wanting a well-rounded, local perspective.

How to Choose the Right Tour for You

Choosing between these options depends on your interests, timing, and budget. Want to cook like a local? The private cooking class offers a hands-on experience that’s both fun and practical. Interested in Japanese art? The Otsu-e folk art tour provides cultural insight combined with artistic craftsmanship. For spiritual seekers, the full-day Mount Hiei pilgrimage is an immersive way to explore sacred sites.

Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Night Gagaku Concert or the Lake Biwa bicycle rental. Those looking for a lively evening can opt for the bar-hopping tour.

Practical tips include booking early during peak seasons and considering your fitness level for bike or walking tours. For a full experience, try combining a cultural walk with a temple visit or a food tour—these give you a well-rounded glimpse of Otsu.

To sum it up, Otsu offers a surprising diversity of tours that fit different interests and schedules. Whether you prefer culinary adventures, artistic explorations, or spiritual journeys, this city makes an excellent base for discovering Japanese culture in a more intimate way. For the best experience, plan ahead and book early—these popular tours tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Whatever your choice, you’re sure to come away with stories to tell and new insights into this quiet but culturally rich part of Japan.