My next stop three days in Otsu, Shiga. Just 10 minutes by train from Kyoto and adjacent to Lake Biwa, this was a hidden surprise for me. One where I will definitely come back to.
- I stayed at a renovated Machiya (traditional Japanese townhouse) that was converted into a 13 room Inn. What a pleasant surprise, nice staff, very nice room (one of the best I have stayed) and a lounge shared by 5 rooms that provided daily refreshments, coffee & treats and later, yes! BEER and wine.
- My accommodation included two one hour tours. One a local tour and the other a Machiya Tour of a Cultural Heritage Machiya. Both were great to get to know the area and the Machiya was AMAZING.
- My main purpose in Otsu: Visit Renovated Nagahama House an hour train north east of Otsu and fortunately the Real Estate Agent/Developer picked me up at the train station and drove me to the house.
Next stop Kyoto. Check back for future blogs and follow me on Instagram @shimazustudio for more Japan Travel content.