Located in the heart of Ōtsu, where government offices are concentrated, Tenson Shrine is a historic and venerable shrine that has watched over the city and its people since the Nara period. Known as a cherry blossom viewing spot, many visitors come to enjoy the blossoms during their visit.

Kawaguchi Park is a beloved relaxation spot for local residents.
During the spring cherry blossom season, pale pink blossoms bloom abundantly, softly enveloping the entire park. Located along the Keihan Railway line, it is also delightful to watch the trains pass by the park in full bloom.

Nagara Park, located at the foot of Mount Nagara, is known as a cherry blossom viewing site. In spring, the cherry trees in the park bloom magnificently, and local residents also visit for hanami (cherry blossom viewing). This area has been celebrated in waka poetry since ancient times, and the park offers a splendid view of Lake Biwa. The Nagara Creative Exhibition Hall (Setsuko Mitsuhashi Museum) is also located within the park.

Mii-dera Temple is famous nationwide as a cherry blossom viewing site. In spring, over a thousand Yoshino cherry trees, mountain cherry trees, and weeping cherry trees bloom throughout the temple grounds. During the peak blossom season, special evening viewing is also held, allowing visitors to enjoy the enchanting world of illuminated night cherry blossoms.

The Lake Biwa Canal, which carries water from Lake Biwa to Kyoto, is a waterway constructed during the Meiji era using the finest civil engineering techniques of the time. The cherry tree-lined banks are one of Ōtsu's famous cherry blossom viewing spots, attracting many visitors. From late March to early April, when the blossoms are at their peak, the cherry trees lining both banks of the Ōtsu Canal—leading to the First Tunnel of the Lake Biwa Canal facilities, designated a National Treasure in 2025—are vividly illuminated.