A four-part series on the country's hidden gems worth seeking out
Escape the crowds at Kyoto and head to the nearby city of Otsu by the shore of Biwa, the largest lake in Japan. The capital city of Shiga prefecture and just 10 minutes by train from Kyoto, Otsu was once the capital of Japan during the Asuka period (592-710). This means there is lots of history and heritage to be explored here, along with plenty of water sports and culinary delights.
Hotel Koo has revitalised the quaint old shopping arcade of Otsu by converting some of its old machiya (townhouses) into a modern boutique hotel. Each of the 13 rooms spread out over the seven different buildings has its own charm. The hotel is in a fantastic location too, within walking distance to many local attractions including the Mii-dera Temple.
1-2-6 Chuo, Otsu, Shiga (Kamisakaemachi, Otsu stations). 077 516 7475.
Being located along the shores of the country’s largest lake means Otsu is home to many gorgeous beaches, including the scenic Omi-Maiko Beach. This four-kilometre-long stretch of pristine sand-and-pebble beach becomes especially popular in the warmer months, when visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming and windsurfing.
1095 Minamikomatsu, Otsu, Shiga (Omi-Maiko Station).
One of the city’s most popular sightseeing excursions, the Michigan Cruise allows you to enjoy Lake Biwa both day and night. Take in a stunning 360-degree view of the natural surroundings while you enjoy live music and treat yourself to a range of dining options from a buffet to à la carte meals.
Packages from ¥2,260 (adult), ¥1,130 (child).
Mii-dera Temple, also known as Onojo-ji, is a designated national treasureandoneofthecountry’s most important cultural properties. Founded in 672, this Buddhist temple is expansive and its gorgeous gardens are particularly picturesque come cherry blossom season. Don’t miss the Issaikyo-zo, the intricate scripture house that contains the complete Buddhist scriptures.
264 Onjojicho, Otsu, Shiga (Miidera Station). 077 522 2238.
For sweeping views of Lake Biwa and the surrounding mountains, there’s no better vantage point than Biwako Terrace. This attraction at Biwako Valley ski resort stretches across two peaks: you can reach the top of Mt Uchimi via the ropeway and from there, get to Mt Horai on foot or using the lifts. The highlights are, of course, the lookout platforms on both summits, plus there are also two restaurants and a café on-site.
1547-1 Kido, Otsu, Shiga. Summer pricing: ropeway ¥2,500 (adult), from ¥600 (child); lift day-pass ¥1,200 (adult), ¥800 (child), one-way ¥400.
Just under three hours by train from Tokyo Station, the most direct way to Otsu from the capital is by taking the shinkansen to Kyoto before switching to a local train, which will take you to Otsukyo Station in about 10 minutes. Alternatively, it’s less than an hour from central Osaka by train.
‘Otsu is such an amazing hub for exploring Shiga prefecture, Kyoto prefecture, and all of Kansai and beyond. Just a short train ride from Kyoto city, Otsu offers its own unique history and great options for food and accommodation. If you love biking, make Otsu the starting point for a bicycle journey around Lake Biwa; don't miss Enryaku-ji Temple and the other cultural treasures of nearby Mt Hiei.'
- Jason Hyland, president of MGM Resorts Japan
A small port town along the Sanriku Coast in Miyagi prefecture, Kesennuma was devastated by the tsunami of the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011. However, it is well on the road to recovery, welcoming visitors to revel in the area’s natural beauty.
The castle town of Iwakuni and Suo-Oshima island across the bridge are scenic coastal destinations along the Seto Inland Sea in southeastern Yamaguchi prefecture.
The port city of Sakai is a treasure trove of hidden gems and cultural landmarks that encapsulate the rich history of its people and heritage.
