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- Total Distance
- Approx. 14.5km
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- Activity Level
- Low High
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- Duration
- Half Day (5 Hours)
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- Maximum Number of Participants
- 5 people（Please contact us for groups of 6 or more.）
A route exploring Otsu’s history, culture, and cuisine shaped by the waters of Lake Biwa.
Trip Highlights
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A Journey Through Otsu's History, Beginning by the Water
Shaped by the waters of Lake Biwa and the movement of people, Otsu developed as a castle town, port town, and center of faith. On this 15km e-bike course, ride from the lakeside into the city while tracing the “story of water” woven into Otsu's history. The first stop is Zeze Castle Ruins Park. From the remains of the castle once built facing Lake Biwa, reflect on Otsu's history of protecting its waterfront and making use of the lake.
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Otsu and Kyoto, Connected by the Waters of Lake Biwa
Next, head to the Lake Biwa Canal. Follow the waterway built to carry water from Lake Biwa to Kyoto and discover the history of how Otsu and Kyoto have long been connected by water. At the Otsu City Museum of History, learn about the city's development through lake transportation and its history as a castle town and a town of temples and shrines, adding historical depth to the scenery before you.
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From a Place of Prayer to the Flavors of Omi
Along the way, visit Miidera Temple, which has watched over the prayers and daily lives of Otsu's people throughout its long history. After tracing the history of the waterfront, castle, and town, walking through the temple grounds offers a deeper sense of the culture that has been passed down through generations in Otsu. Finally, visit Otsu Uochu for a taste of the lake's bounty and Omi's culinary culture. With an approximately 15km e-bike ride, you can comfortably enjoy Otsu's history, culture, and cuisine at a relaxed pace in a single day.
Route Map
Schedule
5 Hours Otsu: A City Shaped by Water, Life, and Culture
Five hours of cycling through Otsu, discovering its charm while experiencing the scenery and history of Lake Biwa.
Otsu Port Biwaichi Bike
Meet at Otsu Port and have your bike fitted before the ride. We will check each rider's bike size and position to ensure a comfortable and safe ride. Once everything is ready, we will head from Otsu Port to the lakeside. The cycling journey begins as you take in the expansive views of Lake Biwa.
- Ride Information
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Distance: Approx. 4.3km
Riding Time: Approx. 19 minutes
Zeze Castle Ruins Park
A park developed on the former site of Zeze Castle, which once stood facing Lake Biwa. While enjoying the open lakeside scenery, you can discover the history of Otsu, which once flourished as a castle town.
- Ride Information
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Distance: Approx. 5.7km
Riding Time: Approx. 34 minutes
Lake Biwa Canal
A historic waterway built to carry water from Lake Biwa to Kyoto. As you cycle along the flow of the water, you can experience the connection between Otsu and Kyoto that supported modernization, as well as the cityscape shaped by water.
- Ride Information
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Total Distance: Approx. 7km
Total Riding Time: Approx. 4 minutes
Miidera Temple
One of Otsu's most historic temples. Visit the temple grounds surrounded by rich nature and experience the peaceful atmosphere while discovering the history and culture that have been passed down through generations in Otsu.
- Ride Information
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Distance: Approx. 9km
Riding Time: Approx. 5 minutes
Otsu City Museum of History
A museum where you can learn about the nature and wildlife of Lake Biwa, as well as the relationship between the lake and the lives of local people. Because you are actually cycling around Lake Biwa, you can gain a closer understanding of what kind of environment this lake has.
- Ride Information
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Distance: Approx. 2km
Riding Time: Approx. 12 minutes
Otsu Uochu
Enjoy a lunchtime experience of Otsu's culinary culture. Take a break from cycling while savoring local flavors, and relax as you recharge your energy for the afternoon itinerary.
- Ride Information
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Distance: Approx. 9km
Riding Time: Approx. 5 minutes
Otsu Port Biwaichi Bike
Return to Otsu Port and complete the cycling journey. After arriving, return your bike and enjoy the lingering memories of the trip as you look back on the scenery of Lake Biwa with a sense of accomplishment.
- Ride Information
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Total Distance: Approx. 14.5km
Total Riding Time: Approx. 1 hour 21 minutes
Best Time for the Tour
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Best
Suitable
Seasonal Conditions Apply
From spring to early summer, and from autumn to winter, temperatures are mild and comfortable for cycling.
From July to August, temperatures are high and long hours of cycling require physical stamina, so precautions against the heat are necessary.
From late December to February, snowfall and icy road conditions may affect the route, particularly in the northern areas.
We can also adjust the route and itinerary according to the season, so if you have a preferred time of year, please feel free to contact us.
Features of Biwaichi Bike Tours
Enjoy the scenery and culture of Shiga from a unique perspective that only cycling can offer.
Our guides, who know Shiga's roads and cycling inside and out, will lead the way.
With full support, you can enjoy the tour with peace of mind even if you are not confident in your physical fitness.
Tour Overview
- Tour Name
- Otsu: A Journey Shaped by Water and Culture – 5-Hour Course
- Duration
- Half Day (5 Hours)
- Minimum Number of Participants
- 1 people
- Maximum Number of Participants
- 5 people（Please contact us for groups of 6 or more.）
