Otsu is an important city in Japan. Otsu city serves as the capital city to the prefecture of Shiga. Like many other cities in Japan, Otsu city has some important historical connections and associations. Situated near Kyoto, one of the most beautiful cities in Japan, Otsu shines has its own distinctive characteristics. It has a beautiful lake known as Lake Biwa along with other travel destinations. Otsu also had the honor of being the capital of Japan for some time.
Otsu city was previously known as 'Awazu'. During Genpei War, Otsu city was one of the battlegrounds. This war took place in the 12 th century. During 7 th century Otsu was chosen as the capital of Japan by the Emperor Tenchi. Otsu is also the home to the famous haiku poet, named, Matsuo Basho. His tomb has become one of tourist attractions in this city.
Among several travel destinations and tourist spots in
Otsu there are the famous temple of Ishiyama-dera. This temple has been made more famous by the talented writer Murasaki Shikibu. She wrote a psychological novel which is considered to be a tremendously important literary piece in Japanese Literature. She used to reside in this temple.
Otsu is also known for the tomb of another famous poet Matsuo Basho. Moreover the presence of the Lake Biwa, at the south part of which Otsu is located, is another famous travel destination in Otsu. Lake Biwa is the biggest lake in Japan and provides several travel packages and other opportunities of fun and enjoyment to the tourists. The tourists are given the chance to swim in the lake and also the opportunity to roam and discover the lake side places. The Lake Biwa Canal is an important transportation way in Otsu. It transports both passengers and cargoes.
