Otsu is a fantastic place for exploring Japan’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Its proximity to Kyoto makes it an ideal spot to uncover ancient temples, scenic landscapes, and traditional towns. What we love about these tours is how they combine natural beauty with deep historical significance. For example, the Kyoto: Private Tour of World Heritage Enryakuji and Monk’s Town offers an intimate look at Mount Hiei’s sacred sites, with views that stretch over Lake Biwa. It’s perfect for those who want a deep dive into monastic life and spiritual sites. Meanwhile, tours exploring Sakamoto’s streets and stone walls reveal the craftsmanship and faith shaping the region.
In this guide, we’ll review four top-rated historical tours in Otsu, each offering a different perspective—from peaceful temple visits to walking tours through historic towns. Whether you seek cultural insights, scenic rides, or local flavor, there’s something here to match your interests.
1. Kyoto: Private Tour of World Heritage Enryakuji and Monk’s Town
At number one, we start with a tour that truly captures Mount Hiei’s spiritual heart. This private experience takes you on a scenic ride aboard Japan’s longest cable car, the Sakamoto Cable Car, offering sweeping views of Lake Biwa and the surrounding forests. Once at the top, you’ll visit the Enryaku-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has been a center of Buddhist practice for over a thousand years. The tour also includes a visit to Kyu Chikurinin Garden, a peaceful retreat once used by monks, where you can enjoy traditional Japanese landscaping, ponds, and waterfalls. This stop highlights how monks historically trained and meditated in serene settings.
The tour’s uniqueness lies in its blend of nature, spiritual sites, and local culture. It’s especially suited for travelers interested in religious history and traditional Japanese architecture. The guided walk through Sakamoto town offers insight into local life and cultural practices. The reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and the private nature of the tour, with one reviewer calling it “an unforgettable journey through the spiritual and natural beauty of Mount Hiei.”
Bottom line: This tour provides a deep, personalized experience of Mount Hiei’s religious sites combined with stunning landscapes—ideal for those craving a spiritual connection and scenic views.
$220.66 per person
2. Kyoto: World Heritage Enryakuji and Monk’s Town Private Tour
At number two, this private tour offers a balanced combination of historical sites and scenic exploration. Starting from two convenient locations in Shiga Prefecture, the itinerary includes stops at the Chikurin-in garden, known for its tranquil waterfalls and carefully maintained gardens, and the Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine, famous for its vibrant torii gates and sacred atmosphere.
The highlight remains the visit to Enryaku-ji Temple, where guided tours cover its ancient structures and spiritual significance. The tour’s design makes it perfect for those who want a thorough introduction to Mount Hiei’s religious landscape without rushing. The inclusion of scenic views of Lake Biwa and Mount Hiei adds to its appeal, making it suitable for nature lovers as well.
What sets this tour apart is its flexible start points and comprehensive coverage—covering temples, shrines, and local town streets. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking a well-rounded experience at a slightly lower price than the private tour, with lots of guided attention.
Bottom line: Ideal for those looking for a flexible, multi-site exploration of Otsu’s religious and natural scenery, with a clear focus on cultural depth and scenic beauty.
$132 per person
3. Shiga: Discover Otsu’s History, Culture, and Faith on Foot
This three-hour walking tour offers a rich introduction to Otsu’s evolving identity. Led by a knowledgeable local, it covers Otsu Hyakucho-kan, a historic merchant district that reflects the town’s role as a thriving post town on the Tōkaidō highway. Visitors get a taste of local commerce, hospitality, and traditional crafts. The tour includes a visit to Miidera Temple, one of the most prominent religious sites in the area, famous for its ancient wooden buildings and sacred forests.
A highlight is the chance to sample funazushi, a fermented fish delicacy unique to the region, at Sakamotoya. The tour also features Otsu-e art, a local style of folk painting that dates back centuries, offering insight into regional cultural expression. With a focus on local history and faith, it’s perfect for travelers wanting to understand how Otsu grew from a humble river port into a spiritual and commercial hub.
Although the review count is zero, the detailed storytelling and hands-on experience make it a solid choice for history and culture enthusiasts. Expect a relaxed pace, lively guides, and plenty of local flavor.
Bottom line: This tour gives a lively, personal glimpse into Otsu’s commercial heritage and spiritual sites, making it ideal for those who want an authentic, in-depth experience.
$121.57 per person
4. Shiga: Sakamoto Walking Tour of Stone Walls Faith and History
Rounding out the list, this Sakamoto walking tour focuses on the craftsmanship and faith traditions that shaped the town at the foot of Mount Hiei. Over three hours, you’ll explore the historic stone walls, constructed by Anō masons, and visit significant religious sites like Hiyoshi Taisha with its Sannō torii gates and guardians.
The tour also includes a stroll through Serene gardens at Former Chikurin-in, offering peaceful scenery and insight into monastic life. You’ll learn about the residences of retired monks at Shigain Monzeki and see the stone walls that symbolize the town’s long-standing craftsmanship and spiritual resilience. The emphasis on faith, stonework, and local history gives this tour a distinctly authentic feel.
While reviews are currently unavailable, the focus on artisanship and religious traditions appeals to travelers interested in architecture, faith, and craftsmanship. It suits those who enjoy walking and exploring less touristy, more historically textured parts of Japan.
Bottom line: Perfect for history lovers with an interest in stone craftsmanship and religious symbolism, this tour offers an insightful look into Sakamoto’s cultural legacy.
$138.00 per person
How to Choose the Best Historical Tour in Otsu
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and physical comfort. If you want a deeply spiritual experience with magnificent views, the Kyoto: Private Tour of World Heritage Enryakuji and Monk’s Town is your best pick. For those who prefer a broader cultural overview with flexible start points, the Kyoto: World Heritage Enryakuji and Monk’s Town Private Tour offers a comprehensive look at temples, shrines, and scenic vistas.
If you’re most interested in local stories, crafts, and culinary traditions, the Discover Otsu’s History, Culture, and Faith on Foot provides a lively, engaging walk. Meanwhile, for those who love architecture, stonework, and religious symbolism, the Sakamoto Walking Tour of Stone Walls Faith and History offers a detailed exploration of craftsmanship and faith.
Practical tips include booking early during peak seasons, especially for private tours, and choosing based on your fitness level, as some tours involve walking or cable car rides. Check availability and timing to match your schedule.
Final Thoughts
Otsu offers a broad spectrum of historical and cultural experiences, from scenic temple visits to walking tours through ancient streets. For a deep spiritual immersion, the Mount Hiei tours are unbeatable, especially the private Kyoto: Private Tour of World Heritage Enryakuji. If you prefer a more laid-back, cultural exploration with local flavor, then the Discover Otsu’s History, Culture, and Faith on Foot is a great choice.
Travelers interested in craftsmanship and stone architecture should consider the Sakamoto Walking Tour, which highlights local artisanship and faith traditions.
No matter your preference, these tours provide memorable ways to understand Otsu’s deep-rooted history and cultural landscape. Booking early and choosing a tour aligned with your interests will ensure a meaningful, enriching experience in this charming corner of Japan.