Hama-Otsu Nagisa Park: Lakeside Serenity
A scenic lakeside park in Otsu offering relaxation, recreation, and stunning views of Lake Biwa and surrounding mountains.
Hama-Otsu Nagisa Park is a scenic parkland stretching along the coast of Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake. Completed in 1998, the park spans almost 5 kilometers from Hamaotsu to the Omi-Ohashi bridge and is divided into six distinct areas, each offering unique attractions. These include an event plaza, Utsugi no Mori forest, Nagisa Promenade, Citizen Plaza, Sunshine Beach, and Zeze-Seiran no Michi Pathway. The park provides a serene environment for leisurely strolls, picnics, and various recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant moss phlox from early April to early May. The Citizen Plaza offers panoramic views of Mount Hiei and the Hira Mountains, as well as the city lights at night. During warmer months, water sports are popular. The park's location is historically significant, with the first railway in Shiga Prefecture opening between Hama-Otsu and Kyoto in 1880. Today, Hama-Otsu Nagisa Park continues to be a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The annual Lake Biwa Great Fireworks Festival, held offshore in August, draws large crowds.
Local tips
- Visit during cherry blossom season (late March-early April) for stunning floral displays.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the lawns with scenic lake views.
- Rent a bicycle to explore the lakeside paths.
- Check the local event calendar for seasonal festivals and cultural events.
- The Citizen Plaza offers great views of the city lights at night.
A brief summary to Hama-Otsu Nagisa Park
- Hamaotsu, Otsu, 5 Chome Hamaotsu, Shiga, 520-0047, JP
- +8177-527-1555
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Walking
From Hama-Otsu Station (Keihan Line), exit and walk towards Lake Biwa. The park is a short walk from the station, approximately 5 minutes. Follow the signs towards the lakefront.
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Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Biwako Line to Otsu Station (approx. 30 minutes). From Otsu Station, it is a 15-minute walk to the park. Alternatively, take bus number 18 from Kyoto Station to Otsu Station (approx. 45 minutes), then walk 15 minutes to the park. A one-way train ticket from Kyoto to Otsu costs approximately ¥190. Local bus fare within Otsu is a fixed price.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from both Otsu Station and Hama-Otsu Station. A short taxi ride from either station to Hama-Otsu Nagisa Park will cost approximately ¥700-¥1000.
Attractions Nearby to Hama-Otsu Nagisa Park
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Hamaotsu A-qus
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Michigan Cruise (Otsu Port / Lake Biwa Kisen)
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Otsu Port Marina
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Biwako Flower Fountain
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Otsu Festival Hikiyama Exhibition Hall
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Kekaiji
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Lake Biwa Canal
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Boat Race Biwako
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Biwa Lake
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Kannon-do Hall of Onjo-ji Temple
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Suikanji
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Waqoo Miidera Myōgon-in
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Onjo-ji (Mii-dera)
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Gichuji
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Biwako Ōtsukan English Garden
