Otsu Matsuri is one of Shiga’s three major festivals for the prosperity of the people and the spirits of Otsu. 13 floats with performances of Karakuri mechanical dolls, are gorgeously decorated and are carried through central Otsu.

The festival eve called Yoimiya, the floats are lit up with lanterns and displayed on the streets at night.  During the procession, they throw “chimaki” (rice cakes) , good luck charms from the floats.

Otsu Matsuri Schedule

OCT 12, Evening to 21:00 (The Festival Eve)

OCT 13, 9:00 to 17:30 (The procession)

Access : A short walk from Otsu station on the JR Biwako line, or 5-minute walk from Keihan Hamaotsu station

Otsu Festival Hikiyama Exhibition Hall

Address : 1 Chome-2-27 Central, Otsu, Shiga 520-0043