Ogoto Onsen – Lakeside Hot Springs at the Foot of Mount Hiei

【Highlights】
・A lakeside hot spring resort at the foot of Mount Hiei, stretching along the western shore of Lake Biwa.
・Distinctive lakeside scenery with views of Omi Fuji, also known as Mount Mikami.
・Highly alkaline simple hot spring water with a pH value of 9.0.
・A convenient stop before or after exploring Mount Hiei or Lake Biwa.

【History and Culture】
Ogoto Onsen is a hot spring resort located at the foot of Mount Hiei on the western shore of Lake Biwa. It has long been cherished as a scenic lakeside destination with views of Omi Fuji, or Mount Mikami, and is also known for its easy access from Kyoto.

Its origins are said to trace back to Saicho, the Great Master Dengyo of Mount Hiei. During the Taisho era, Ogoto Onsen developed into a full-fledged hot spring resort, and today it serves as a tourism hub for Kyoto, Mount Hiei, and Lake Biwa, welcoming many visitors from Japan and abroad.

【The Onsen Experience】
Ogoto Onsen features a highly alkaline simple hot spring with a pH value of 9.0. It is said to be beneficial for neuralgia, muscle pain, sensitivity to cold, and fatigue recovery, and its smooth, gentle feel on the skin is part of its appeal. At each ryokan and hotel, the baths are supplied with water drawn from the source without mixing in tap water.

Another Ogoto Onsen highlight is enjoying open-air baths with views of Lake Biwa, as well as baths with different atmospheres at each inn. With facilities that offer day-use bathing and free ashiyu (footbaths), it’s an easy hot spring stop not only for overnight stays, but also alongside sightseeing in Mount Hiei and Sakamoto.