What is Otsu City, Ishiyama—The Birthplace of JIOS?
Exploring the Area
Otsu City, Ishiyama, is located on the western side of the upper reaches of the Seta River, the only outlet of Lake Biwa. The area is famous for Ishiyamadera Temple, where it is said that Murasaki Shikibu was inspired to write "The Tale of Genji."
The area offers excellent transportation access to Kyoto and Osaka, making it a popular residential area within the broader Kinki-Osaka economic zone. Ishiyama Station serves as a key transportation hub for southern Shiga Prefecture, connecting bus routes across the region.
Ishiyamadera is a renowned temple of the Shingon sect, famous for its connection to "The Tale of Genji" and Murasaki Shikibu, as well as being known as the "Temple of Flowers." Located at the foot of Mount Garan on the western bank of the Seta River, which flows from Lake Biwa, it is the 13th temple on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage. The temple lives up to its nickname with stunning seasonal displays, particularly the cherry blossoms in spring and the vibrant autumn leaves, both of which are well worth a visit. The expansive grounds also feature a natural limestone formation, a national monument that gives the temple its name.
In addition to its beauty, Ishiyamadera is home to numerous national treasures and important cultural properties, including the main hall, pagoda, scriptures, Buddhist statues, and scrolls. It's a valuable site not only for tourism but also for cultural preservation. JIOS staff often visit with their children for a leisurely stroll. There are also many delicious shops in front of the temple that we highly recommend. Be sure to try the Seta shijimi rice, Ishiyamadera pudding, and grilled mitarashi dango when you visit.
Matsukiya is a long-established restaurant known for its Omi beef, with a history dating back to the early Meiji period when it became the official purveyor to the Imperial Household. It’s one of the most famous establishments in Ishiyama, and many locals use it for special occasions. Today, the shop operates both as a butcher and a restaurant, drawing visitors from far and wide. Weekends can be particularly busy with cars and charter buses lining up. While JIOS staff don’t visit often, the restaurant is highly recommended. Watching the chef grill Omi beef on the spacious teppanyaki grill right in front of you is a spectacular experience. The taste is, of course, top-notch. If you’re in the area, be sure to try the Omi beef!
Yoki-yu is a local bathhouse that JIOS founder Takewaki frequently visits with his two sons, who absolutely love it. The bathhouse features a traditional karahafu roof exterior, and inside, it blends modern amenities with the charm of old-fashioned relaxation, making it a beloved community gathering spot. Since 2019, Yoki-yu has been managed by Yutonami, a group specializing in bathhouse revitalization, and it has become a popular destination once again.
Yoki-yu hosts various events that attract even those who don’t typically visit bathhouses, making it a cherished place for locals. The front area is also a fun spot, offering nostalgic bottled drinks and original goods for sale. We especially recommend trying "Tanaka Milk," a locally produced milk available in paper cartons—there’s nothing quite like a refreshing milk after a bath! It’s a favorite among kids too. If you find yourself in Ishiyama, be sure to stop by Yoki-yu for a relaxing bath before heading home.
Located on the first floor of the building where the JIOS office is, SPUTNIC is a stylish Italian izakaya that our staff often frequent. The cozy interior invites you to stay longer than planned and enjoy a few too many drinks! It’s perfect for everyday dining or special events like Christmas dinners. The food is delicious, reasonably priced, and the atmosphere is trendy and inviting. Thanks to the chic ambiance and the charming owner, it’s also a popular spot for girls' nights out. Interestingly, Takewaki, the founder of JIOS, is the same age as the owner of SPUTNIC, and there are rumors they might collaborate on an original watch. If you’re nearby, make sure to drop in!
There are many more wonderful places and shops in Ishiyama that we recommend.
We’ll be adding more to this page over time, but be sure to follow JIOS on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and other social media for the latest updates!
There are still many more recommended places and shops in Ishiyama.
We plan to add more to this page gradually, but please be sure to follow JIOS on Instagram, Facebook, and other social media platforms!!