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‘Oinai’ is an expression of the local Otsu dialect meaning “Come on in.” Here in Otsu, the slow yet steady movement of Lake Biwa reflects a similar pace of life in the local community.

A traditional Edo-style shop sits comfortably nestled among a line of its contemporary neighbors. Children pass by a local shopper on their way home from school.

‘Shotengai’ are Japanese market and storefront districts, usually along one or two long walkable streets. Once you get outside the big cities and tourist spots, shotengai are still at the heart of local communities. We invite you to enjoy a one-of-a-kind local culture experience around the shotengai at the heart of Otsu!