
Holiday rentals in Otsu
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Total holiday rentals
Explore 200 holiday rentals in Otsu

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Otsu holiday rentals start at £15 per night before taxes and fees

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Family-friendly holiday rentals
100 properties offer extra space & child-friendly amenities

Pet-friendly holiday rentals
Find 10 rentals that welcome pets

Rentals with dedicated workspaces
90 properties have a dedicated workspace

Wifi availability
180 of Otsu holiday rentals include wifi access

Popular amenities for guests
Guests love Kitchen, Wifi and Pool across Otsu rentals

4.8 Average rating
Otsu stays are highly rated by guests – averaging 4.8 out of 5!

Nearby attractions
Otsu’s top spots include Daigo-ji Temple, Jakko-in Temple and Kusatsu Station
Top-rated holiday rentals in Otsu
Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

Retro-modern space created by renovating an old house
The stylish space created by renovating an old house is fashionable and somewhat nostalgic. It is located in a quiet area close to the Shiga Prefectural Government Office, with Lake Biwa stretching out before you. In the spacious area where the walls and sliding doors have been removed, you can also relax and gather with family and friends you haven't seen in a long time. There are also quiet corners here and there, a little away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds, where you can reflect on yourself in front of the mud walls and the garden. The house was built by my grandparents in collaboration with the carpenter of the time, and now my granddaughters, who have become architects, have joined forces with the current carpenters to breathe new life into it. While discussing the interesting interplay between ideal and reality, rationality and excess, and while consulting on funding, they carefully restored the old building. I think you can feel this spirit in the mismatched tableware that is still usable and the cushions of different thicknesses. The objects speak to us, telling us that we can do things without being uptight. There is also an indoor tiled bath, but there is a public bath with a sauna nearby. The small coffee stand at the entrance serves breakfast and lunch from 10:00 to 15:00 on weekdays (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday). Guests staying at the accommodation can also use it.

3 stops from Kyoto station 13min.Unique accommodations where you can enjoy jazz and travel like a local
If you want to enjoy sightseeing and music🎼 in a quiet town on the shores of the largest freshwater lake in Japan, in the Kyoto lifestyle area, this is the place! It is in a convenient location just three stops from Kyoto Station (about 13 minutes by train), but it is not crowded, so you can avoid the crowds and enjoy a quiet stay.Convenient access to the main tourist attractions in Osaka, Kyoto and Shiga (Fushimi Inari 35 minutes / Uji 45 minutes / Gion 40 minutes / Osaka 46 minutes, etc.).Enrakuji Temple, a World Heritage Site, Omi Jingu Shrine, and Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine are also nearby, and you can enjoy Japanese cultural heritage such as Karasaki Shrine and Sakamoto Castle Ruins, which are within walking distance, while strolling along the lake shore. The adjoining jazz bar and live performance space features a wonderful sound system and a stage.Currently, we hold jazz live performances roughly once a month (on weekend afternoons). The jazz bar is only open on weekend evenings (from 6 pm to 9 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, for about 3 hours), so please be aware of the noise from the music playing in the bar during that time.For weekend bookings, the live music charge is free, and one drink is free during jazz bar opening hours. There are also drugstores and delicious restaurants near the accommodation, making it convenient for shopping and dining.

Cozy Lake View House Near Kyoto / 家族に人気・無料駐車場
Welcome to a private modern Japanese space with panoramic views of Lake Biwa! This is a rare house along Lake Biwa, and you can rent the entire 2nd and 3rd floors. The location is also excellent, with Branches Otsukey, Starbucks, ramen shops, and MEGA Don Quijote within walking distance, making it the best place to stay for everyday convenience. Property Features: Private space: You can use the entire 2nd and 3rd floors of a 3-story building. The first floor is the owner's exclusive management area, but there is a separate entrance, so privacy is assured. 2nd floor: Spacious living and dining room with bathroom. There are bathrooms on the 2nd and 3rd floors. 3rd floor: There are 2 Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats, where you can enjoy a traditional Japanese atmosphere that is different from the modern space on the 2nd floor. We offer futon bedding for an authentic Japanese experience. Other points: Relaxing environment: There is a main road in front of the house, so you can hear the sound of cars, but there are few houses around, so you can spend time with children without worrying. Convenient location: There are plenty of shopping and dining facilities nearby. Experience a relaxing stay in a Japanese space with a beautiful view of Lake Biwa.

Japanese garden/old private house/Japanese house/Kyoto/Shiga/Lake Biwa/Free parking for 2 cars/Up to 6 people/Experience traditional Japanese living
■ Exclusive rental of a traditional kominka house overlooking a Japanese garden designed by a renowned Kyoto gardener, where visitors can enjoy the changing seasons. Forget the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a moment of tranquillity. ■ Located on high ground with good ventilation, you will feel about 5°C cooler than in central Kyoto. ■ There is also an artificial grass garden, and pets are allowed to stay, so please feel free to bring your dog on holiday. ■ Families with children are also very welcome.Children's crockery, aprons and a cot are also provided.If you are using a cot, please let us know. ■ We provide four single futons and one double futon, so a maximum of six people can stay. ■ Two parking spaces are available.Parking is available free of charge for up to two cars, as it is located right in front of the accommodation. ■ Enjoy a relaxing stay with family or friends in a traditional Japanese kominka (old house).As this is a traditional Japanese kominka house, you may notice some sand falling from the walls or a bit of creaking, but I hope you will appreciate these aspects as part of the charm of traditional Japanese architecture and culture.

Direct access to Kyoto Station in 9 minutes | Direct access to Shin-Osaka and Kobe | Entire modern building | Near the station | Accommodates up to 11 people | Ideal base for sightseeing in Kansai | Close to Lake Biwa
A private rental accommodation that will be fully renovated in 2026. You can enjoy a homely stay in a calm environment. A maximum of 11 guests can be accommodated, but cots are also available, and the capacity of 11 guests is for families with children or families sharing beds. There are two toilets and two bathrooms, For groups of adults only, up to 7-8 people can stay comfortably. The nearest station, Otsu Station, is a 6-minute walk away. There is excellent access, with a direct connection to Kyoto Station in 9 minutes, a direct connection to Shin-Osaka Station in about 34 minutes, and a direct connection to Kobe in about 60 minutes!️ There is also a single change via Kyoto Station from Tokyo Station and Kansai Airport. There are restaurants, supermarkets, convenience stores, and a tourist information centre around the station. The convenience store is a 4-minute walk from the accommodation, and the supermarket is a 6-minute walk. The area is not very crowded, and you can enjoy a quiet stay ☺️ Fully equipped kitchen. It is a calm space with a Japanese-style feel, with a projector installed in the living room. After sightseeing, please relax by Lake Biwa.

2 stations from Kyoto, 2-minute walk from Otsu station, ideal for sightseeing in Kyoto and Osaka, parking available
It is a 2-minute walk from Otsu Station, which is 2 stops from Kyoto Station (9 minutes). It is a convenient location. There is also free parking, and it is easily accessible by train or car. There is also a convenience store and supermarket within walking distance. Conveniently located for sightseeing in Kyoto and Osaka, with good access to Kiyomizu Temple, Ginkakuji Temple, Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Kinkakuji Temple, Heitoin Temple, Dotonbori, Kuromon Market, Tsutenkaku, Universal Studios Japan, Osaka Expo, etc. There are a total of 7 beds (2 of which are sofa beds) and can accommodate up to 10 people. We also have a free washing machine, dryer, cooking utensils and seasonings so that you can stay comfortably even for long stays, and you can enjoy your trip in Japan!

10 minutes from Kyoto Station_Private rental for 8 people_4 bedrooms_Villa Ishiba-Otsu by Kyoto_ヴィラ石場大津
"Villa Ishiba-Otsu by Kyoto" is a private house that can accommodate up to 8 people. It's a great, spacious place for the whole group to enjoy. Please come. It is a 10-minute walk from the Villa to JR Otsu Station, and a 10-minute train ride from Otsu Station to Kyoto Station. It is also a 30-minute train ride from Keihan Ishiba Station, a 4-minute walk, to Sanjo Keihan Station. The shore of Lake Biwa is a 7-minute walk. ※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※ The house is located in a very quiet residential neighborhood, and because the houses are densely packed, banquets, parties, etc. are prohibited. Also, due to past circumstances, we do not accept reservations for student groups. Please refrain from making loud noises after 9 pm. ※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※※

Kyoto13min/4ppl/WideKing Bed/3minStation/Lake Area
Our place is in Ishiyama,just 13 min from Kyoto and 50 min from Osaka. It’s a peaceful town near the southern tip of Lake Biwa, with rivers, nature, and history. You can enjoy quiet stays away from the busy city, explore Ishiyama-dera Temple, or go cycling along the lakeside. Try amazing Omi Beef, one of Japan’s top 3 wagyu! Walk by the Seta River, relax in nature, and visit nearby spots like MIHO Museum, Hikone Castle and more. The room has warm lighting and a 240cm-wide bed for perfect rest.

Azalea House on Mt. Hiei, Kyoto
Azalea House is on the slope of Mt. Hiei, a world-heritage. To get there, drive 20 min. from Kyoto-Higashi exit on Meishin. Or ride the bus 30 min. from downtown Kyoto or 20 min. from JR Otsukyo Sta. and get off before Hieidaira convenience store. The host will meet you there. Bus service drastically reduced since Covid-19. Free parking space. Easy access to both Kyoto and Lake Biwa. Rich in nature. Completely detached, full privacy, handy & cozy like home. Self-cooking is available.

Max8guests Near Station / Kyoto /Biwako/Machiya
Enjoy a fully renovated 100-year-old traditional townhouse that combines historic charm with modern comfort. Keihan Kami-Sakaemachi Station is right in front of the property, providing easy access to Kyoto Sanjo and Lake Biwa. JR Otsu Station is an 8-minute walk away. Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara can be reached in about 9, 39, and 55 minutes by train. The peaceful surroundings are ideal for guests who want to stay like a local. From the second-floor window, you can watch trains pass by nearby.

Kyoto Base for 10|Near Station,2 Baths 2 Parkings
Just a 15‑minute train ride from Kyoto Station, this private house sits in a quiet residential area and offers a relaxing stay. Located in Otsu City, it’s a 10‑minute walk from Hieizan Sakamoto Station, with easy access to Gion‑Shijo, Kiyomizu‑dera, and Higashiyama. Nearby are Enryaku‑ji and Lake Biwa. The calm, clean interior feels like “another home.” It hosts up to 10 guests, or 18 with the neighboring building. A fully equipped kitchen and nearby shops make long stays easy.

Kyoto Trip Base|Entire Home|3B R|8 Guests|Parking3
Charming brick house in Sakamoto, Otsu—next to Kyoto & Lake Biwa! Ideal base for Kyoto, Osaka, and local sightseeing. ★ Highlights ★ • Up to 8 Guests: 3 bedrooms, 2 toilets, spacious living room, full kitchen & garden. • Free Parking (3 Cars): Perfect for road trips to Lake Biwa & Mt. Hiei. • Easy Access: Direct train to Kyoto Station in 15 mins. Supermarkets & 24h stores nearby. • Family-Friendly: Toys and kids amenities provided. We look forward to hosting you!
Popular amenities for Otsu holiday rentals
Other great holiday rentals in Otsu

[Liuyunzhuang · Lakeside Residence] Entire house for rent, 5 minutes walk to Lake Biwa, 10 minutes to JR Otsu Station, cozy and comfortable, close to convenience stores and supermarkets, convenient for daily life

30% -65% OFF for consecutive nights. 2 stops to Kyoto Station! You can cook and do laundry! Twin bedroom with 60-inch TV!

Scenic & quiet entire house in nature

Ancient machiya 164 ㎡ |6 min to st |Osaka direct

Hiei Mountain House

A guest house that can be rented out for up to 7 people. It is about 3 minutes from the station and is also adjacent to Lake Biwa and the Hira Mountains.

[Kominya Onigiri] 159㎡ rental/2 minutes to Lake Biwa/40 minutes to Kyoto/large group BBQ

【三米琵琶湖】鶴舞みずうみ水泳場びわ湖テラススキーコーヒーbiwalake
When is the best time to visit Otsu?
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sept | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg. price | £78 | £71 | £83 | £80 | £80 | £74 | £100 | £111 | £89 | £88 | £86 | £80 |
| Avg. temp | 6°C | 7°C | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C | 30°C | 26°C | 20°C | 14°C | 9°C |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to stay in Otsu?
Stay near Lake Biwa for easy access to waterside paths and outdoor recreation, or explore traditional areas for historic charm and proximity to cultural sites. Family-friendly neighborhoods offer parks and markets.
What are the best things to do in Otsu with kids?
Try lakeside parks for outdoor play, take boat rides on Lake Biwa, and visit interactive exhibits at local museums. Community playgrounds, seasonal festivals, and garden walks are also popular choices for families.
What are some of the best things to do in Otsu?
Explore Lake Biwa, wander historic streets near shrines like Ishiyama-dera, and stroll gardens around Miidera Temple. Otsu frequently suggests lakeside picnics, visits to museums, and sampling local cuisine.
How is the weather in Otsu?
Otsu has cool winters from 37–49°F (3–10°C), warming to 61–77°F (16–25°C) in spring, and reaching 78–93°F (26–34°C) during summer. Rainfall is higher from late spring through early autumn, so packing a light rain jacket is useful.
When is the best time to visit Otsu?
Late spring and early autumn are often recommended for comfortable temperatures, blooming flowers, and seasonal events. Summer brings warmer weather, with outdoor activities and lakeside festivals.
What are the best places to visit in Otsu?
Many visitors explore Lake Biwa, Miidera Temple, and Ishiyama-dera, known for their cultural significance. Seasonal festivals, garden strolls, and historic neighborhoods are also frequently suggested.
What are some hiking trails in Otsu?
Otsu has hiking paths around Mount Hiei, forested routes near shrines like Ishiyama-dera, and lakeside trails along Lake Biwa. These areas mix moderate climbs with scenic views and access to temples.
What are some family activities we can do in Otsu?
Families can explore Lake Biwa’s parks, visit local museums, and enjoy boat rides. The city has gardens, outdoor play areas, and cultural sites that often appeal to travelers of all ages.
What are some of the best day trip ideas from Otsu?
Day trips often include visits to Kyoto’s temples, exploring regional castles, or hiking Mount Hiei. Travelers also enjoy excursions to neighboring towns with historic streets and local craft markets.
Are there any pet friendly accommodations available in Otsu?
Some accommodations in Otsu welcome pets, especially around Lake Biwa and residential neighborhoods. Parks and outdoor spaces make it easy for travelers with pets to enjoy lakeside walks.
What are some local tips for visiting Otsu?
Carry cash for small shops and markets, and check local guides for boat schedules or festivals. Many travelers enjoy relaxing at tea houses or walking around lakeside parks in the early morning or evening.
What is Otsu known for?
Otsu is known for its scenic waterfront along Lake Biwa, historic shrines, and traditional neighborhoods. Many visitors explore the area’s cultural landmarks, parks, and regional food markets.
What are the best hidden gems to explore in Otsu?
Travelers often find tranquil spots in lesser-known gardens, traditional tea houses, and quiet lakeside neighborhoods. Historical temples tucked among residential streets also invite peaceful exploration.
What are the best foods to try in Otsu?
Local specialties include ayu sweetfish from Lake Biwa, shiga-style soba, and traditional wagashi sweets. Many restaurants feature seasonal seafood, regional produce, and dishes with locally sourced ingredients.
What should I bring for a trip to Otsu?
Bring comfortable walking shoes for lakeside paths and historic streets, a lightweight jacket for changing weather, and a reusable water bottle. Between June and September, pack for warmer temperatures and possible rain.
What is the nightlife in Otsu like?
Otsu has a relaxed nightlife with izakaya taverns, casual cafés, and lakeside dining spots. You may also find live music events and community gatherings in popular neighborhoods around Lake Biwa.
What are the most popular events or festivals in Otsu?
Otsu frequently suggests summer festivals near Lake Biwa, traditional processions in historic neighborhoods, and firework displays around seasonal holidays. The Otsu Matsuri is one of the city’s most popular annual celebrations.
Are there family friendly vacation rentals in Otsu?
Many vacation rentals in Otsu accommodate families, especially near Lake Biwa and traditional neighborhoods. You can find places close to parks, cultural sites, and local markets.
Destinations to explore
- Namba Sta.
- Kyoto Station
- Universal Studios Japan
- Umeda Sta.
- Shin-Osaka Sta.
- Sannomiya Station
- Osaka Station City
- Universal City Station
- Nagashima Spa Land
- Nishi-kujō
- Suzuka Circuit
- Tennoji Sta.
- JR Namba Station
- Taisho Sta.
- Dotombori
- Fushimi Inari-taisha
- Nippombashi Sta.
- Kyobashi Station
- Nakazakichō Station
- Arashiyama
- Daikokuchō Station
- Kintetsu-Nippombashi Station
- Kusatsu Station
- Hommachi Station





