Sato-yu Mukashibanashi Yuzanso

This ryokan in Ogoto onsen sits above Lake Biwa, and its outdoor bath looks out over the water through the trees. Alongside it are a waterfall bath, a jet bath, a jacuzzi, a separate tub bath, and an outdoor sauna. The men's and women's baths carry names drawn from local legend, Benkei no Hikizurigane (弁慶の引摺り鐘) for the men's side and Tennyo no Mai (天女の舞) for the women's. Some guest rooms come with their own private open-air bath. The spring water is mildly alkaline, clear and colorless, and known locally for leaving skin feeling smooth. Day-use bathing needs no reservation, and the lakeview cafe terrace is open to bathers too.