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Hikone

23 hotels

Kyoto

1607 hotels

Nagahama (Shiga)

23 hotels

Otsu

40 hotels

Takashima

52 hotels

The most popular hotels in Lake Biwa

Check out the accommodations other travelers loved.

Biwako Hotel Otsu

Hotel

Boasting a shared lounge, various recreational opportunities, and a hair salon, Biwako Hotel Otsu lies just a 5-minute walk from Hamaotsu A-qus Amusement Center. Located in proximity to the historic…

8.9

Fabulous 847 reviews

Biwako Ryokusuitei Otsu

Ryokan

Featuring a vending machine and complimentary newspapers, the 4-star Biwako Ryokusuitei Otsu hotel is situated in the Ogoto Onsen district of Otsu, 2.9 km from Hiyoshi Taisha Shinto Shrine.

9.1

Superb 936 reviews

Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel

Hotel

3.7 km from such sports attractions as Ojiyama Sports Park, the 5-star Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel comprises 38 rooms and 6 restaurants. Located approximately 10 minutes by car from Yanagasaki…

8.6

Fabulous 3378 reviews

Yuzanso Hotel Otsu

Ryokan

The 4-star Yuzanso Hotel Otsu is situated in the Ogoto Onsen district of Otsu, around 5 km from the Original Main Hall and features 49 rooms with views of the lake. Located near a train station, the…

8.9

Fabulous 303 reviews

Biwako Hanakaido Otsu

Ryokan

The smoke-free Biwako Hanakaido Otsu hotel lies in a prime touristic area of Otsu 3 km from Former Chikurin-in Temple Garden, featuring a shared lounge and a library. This 4-star ryokan is about a 25…

9.2

Superb 459 reviews

Hikone Castle Resort & Spa

Hotel

Hikone Castle Resort & Spa features air-conditioned rooms a 6-minute walk from Ii Naomasa Statue. The hotel also provides Wi-Fi available in public areas.

8.8

Fabulous 323 reviews

Hotel Koo Otsuhyakucho

Hotel

Located about 5 minutes' walk from Kosai-ji Temple, the smoke-free Hotel Koo Otsuhyakucho gives easy access to various tourist attractions. The 5-star hotel features Wi-Fi, provided in public areas.

9.1

Superb 217 reviews

Ryokan Beniayu Nagahama

Ryokan

Situated just 6 minutes' walk from the Tsuzuraozaki Lake Ruin Museum, the 3-star Ryokan Beniayu Nagahama offers a vending machine and a lift. Located in proximity to Kohoku Waterfowl Park, this…

9.3

Superb 77 reviews

Toyoko Inn Maibara Eki Shinkansen Nishi Guchi

Hotel

Located within a 6-km distance of the old Umoreginoya Residence, the 3-star smoke-free Toyoko Inn Maibara Eki Shinkansen Nishi Guchi features Wi-Fi in public areas and a private parking lot on site.

7.9

Good 660 reviews

Hotel Route-Inn Nagahama Inter

Hotel

Featuring an indoor swimming pool, the 3-star Hotel Route-Inn Nagahama Inter is 2.7 km from Daitsu-ji Temple. Highlights at this fantastic hotel include Wi-Fi in public areas.

8.0

Very Good 674 reviews

Grand Park Hotel Okubiwako Makino Takashima

Hotel

Offering bicycles for rent, as well as Wi-Fi in public areas, the comfortable Grand Park Hotel Okubiwako Makino Takashima is 4.9 km from Otsuka Tomb. This 4-star hotel features 52 rooms and such…

7.6

Good 339 reviews

Calendar Hotel Otsu

Capsule hotel

Located 2.6 km from Ojigaoka Park, which offers the thrill of discovering something beautiful, the 2-star non-smoking Calendar Hotel Otsu offers a shared lounge and a shopping area. Boasting a prime…

7.9

Good 743 reviews

Grand Mercure Lake Biwa Resort & Spa Nagahama

Hotel

Located around a 5-minute ride from the Daitsu-ji Temple, the 4-star smoke-free Grand Mercure Lake Biwa Resort & Spa Nagahama features Wi-Fi in public areas and private car parking nearby. Staying at…

7.6

Good 1036 reviews

Yumotokan Otsu

Ryokan

Situated 8 minutes' stroll from the refined Ogoto Onsen Biwako Ryokusuitei Hot Spring Hotel, Yumotokan Otsu hotel includes 56 rooms with views of the lake. The ryokan provides Wi-Fi throughout the…

9.1

Superb 958 reviews

Biwafront Hikone Hotel

Hotel

9.5

Exceptional 295 reviews

Inase Otsu Machiya Bed And Breakfast

Bed & Breakfast

Located within 5 minutes' walk of Honyo-ji Temple, the 2-star smoke-free Inase Otsu Machiya Bed And Breakfast offers a courtyard and various recreational opportunities. The bed & breakfast features 7…

9.5

Exceptional 401 reviews

Koke Musu Inn Otsu

Guest house

The family-friendly Koke Musu Inn Otsu offers quick access to the Iwai Shrine, situated around 5 minutes' walk away. Located 3.4 km from the Lake Biwa Sosui-no Sakura, this 4-star guest house…

8.8

Fabulous 217 reviews

Machiya No Yado Iroha Hotel Nagahama

Hotel

Featuring a restaurant and a storage for belongings, Machiya No Yado Iroha Hotel Nagahama lies a mere 5 minutes' walk from Kurokabe Square Art Museum. The hotel serves Italian dishes prepared in the…

9.1

Superb 350 reviews

Kitabiwako Hotel Grazie Nagahama

Hotel

Located just 1.7 km from Daitsu-ji Temple, the comfortable 4-star Kitabiwako Hotel Grazie Nagahama features Wi-Fi in public areas and parking on site. Boasting an à la carte restaurant, the smoke…

8.2

Very Good 472 reviews

Kamenoi Hotel Hikone

Ryokan

Featuring Wi-Fi throughout the property, Kamenoi Hotel Hikone sits 10 minutes' drive from Ryotan-ji Temple. Located 3.9 km from the Shosakai Park, the ryokan comprises 58 rooms and 2 restaurants.

8.2

Very Good 328 reviews

Comfort Hotel Hikone

Hotel

Providing 141 rooms, Comfort Hotel Hikone offers a warm atmosphere and stands near a lake. Featuring a lift and a vending machine throughout the property, this hotel is located a 10-minute drive from…

8.1

Very Good 1195 reviews

Yururibase 凛 -Lakebiwa,Nagahama

9.8

Exceptional 17 reviews

Tsuruga Manten Hotel Ekimae

Hotel

Located nearly 25 minutes' walk from the Shinto Kanegasaki-gu Shrine, the 3-star Tsuruga Manten Hotel Ekimae offers general facilities such as a vending machine and a lift. Offering a sauna, spa…

8.0

Very Good 696 reviews

Super Hotel Minami Hikone Ekimae

Hotel

Situated approximately 25 minutes' walk from the Shosakai Park, the 3-star Super Hotel Minami Hikone Ekimae features luggage storage. Located in a castle, this Hikone hotel also provides a safe stay…

8.2

Very Good 182 reviews

Honmachi Juku Hotel Hikone

Ryokan

Located just 1.2 km from Hikone Historic Castle, Honmachi Juku Hotel Hikone is a 6-minute walk from Former Hikone Clan Ashigaru Team Residence. Guests who stay at this ryokan can park their car…

8.7

Fabulous 242 reviews

Hotel Granbinario Tsuruga

Hotel

Featuring a vending machine and a lift, Hotel Granbinario Tsuruga lies 2.5 km from the Akarenga Storehouse. You will find a restaurant at the hotel.

8.6

Fabulous 1454 reviews

Kiyotaki Ryokan Hikone

Ryokan

Located nearly 25 minutes' walk from Ii Naomasa Statue, the comfortable Kiyotaki Ryokan Hikone features Wi-Fi in public areas and a free private car park on site.

8.8

Fabulous 168 reviews

Apa Hotel Biwako Seta Ekimae Otsu

Hotel

Featuring Wi-Fi in public areas, Apa Hotel Biwako Seta Ekimae Otsu sits a 25-minute walk from The Museum of Modern Art. This hotel provides a vending machine and a lift, and such leisure facilities…

7.8

Good 1050 reviews

Ma Vie Konoka Apartment Otsu

9.9

Exceptional 12 reviews

Sauna Private Villa Ao Takashima

9.6

Exceptional 6 reviews

Lake Biwa Hotels for Your Next Holiday

Why Tourists Visit Lake Biwa

* Cycling along the Lake Biwa Route, one of Japan's top biking paths.
* Exploring the historic Hikone Castle and surrounding gardens.
* Visiting Shirahige Shrine and its iconic floating torii gate.
* Taking a boat cruise on the lake to enjoy views of lush islands like Chikubu Island.
* Savoring local delicacies such as funazushi, a traditional fermented sushi unique to the region.

With around 400 accommodations in the Lake Biwa region, travelers can choose from traditional ryokan inns, modern city hotels, and boutique resorts. The majority of hotels are concentrated in Otsu, Hikone, and Omihachiman, with average nightly rates of $80 for 3-star hotels and $200-plus for luxury 5-star options. Newer additions like Lake Biwa Nagahama Art Resort, featuring art-inspired interiors and lake-facing rooms, are also becoming popular among visitors.

Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake, is a serene getaway in Shiga Prefecture, famed for its stunning landscapes, historical significance, and easy access from Kyoto and Osaka.

Popular tourist draws include Hikone Castle, the torii gate of Shirahige Shrine seemingly floating on the water, and the lively shores featuring activities like watersports and cycling trails.

Whether you're exploring the ancient streets of the Omihachiman merchant district or enjoying sunset views from Omi-Maiko Beach, Lake Biwa offers a perfect mix of nature, history, and relaxation.

Lake Biwa Tips You Must Know

* Book at least 2 months ahead for the best rates during spring (cherry blossom season) and autumn (foliage season).

* Consider staying in Otsu for easy access to Kyoto and dynamic nightlife along the southern shore.

* If you plan to cycle or do watersports, pick lakeside hotels in areas like Omi-Maiko or Nagahama.

* The JR Biwako Line connects many towns around the lake, making public transport convenient for explorers.

* Always check for lake-facing rooms when booking, as the serene views are worth the extra cost!

Otsu

Otsu, the capital city of Shiga Prefecture, boasts the stunning Biwako Hotel and Ishiyama-dera Temple, known for inspiring Japanese classical literature. The city is also home to the annual Otsu Matsuri, featuring vibrant decorative floats. Its waterfront park offers scenic views of Lake Biwa and hosts regular firework displays in summer.

Discover the best hotels in Otsu and enjoy easy access to Lake Biwa's southern shoreline.

Hikone

Hikone charms visitors with Hikone Castle, one of Japan's twelve original castles, and the adorable mascot, Hikonyan. Genkyu-en Garden next to the castle offers fairy-tale views, especially during autumn. This city also showcases ancient roads once used by samurai traveling to Edo.

Browse through the hotels in Hikone to stay close to its iconic castle and historic sites.

Nagahama

Nagahama is famous for Kurokabe Square, a district dedicated to crafts and glass art, and the Nagahama Castle Historical Museum. Every April, the Nagahama Hikiyama Festival brings kabuki performed by children on ornate floats. Visitors also enjoy fresh seafood by the lake.

Explore enchanting hotels in Nagahama and immerse yourself in its distinctive artisan culture.

Omihachiman

Omihachiman showcases historical merchant houses and canals in the Shinmachi district, often called a 'Venice of Japan.' Mount Hachiman provides panoramic views, reachable via a ropeway. The city is also celebrated for its Omi beef, a delicacy rivaling Kobe beef.

Stay in unique hotels in Omihachiman and experience a mix of history, nature, and gourmet cuisine.

Moriyama

Moriyama is a city frequented for its expansive Sagawa Art Museum featuring contemporary exhibitions and the lakeside setup at Pieri Moriyama. Its lotus fields in summer create a breathtaking backdrop for photographers. Visitors also explore its cozy cafes and artisanal shops.

Find the perfect hotels in Moriyama to enjoy art, nature, and laid-back lakeside charm.

Central Hotels: Where Convenience Meets Comfort

Find more convenient Central hotels in Kyoto and stay close to the city's major transit hubs.

Hotel Name

Description

Price per night

Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto

Kyoto Station

Kyoto Tower (1 km)
Nijo Castle (2 km)
Fushimi Inari Shrine (4.5 km)

This hotel blends traditional elegance with modern design and is just a 7-minute train ride from the famed Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

Close to Kyoto Station
Rooftop restaurant with panoramic views
Convenient airport shuttle

$150-$250/night

Hotel Granvia Kyoto

Kyoto Station

Kyoto Tower (0.5 km)
Gion District (3 km)
Nishiki Market (2.5 km)

Located directly above Kyoto Station, it features a gallery on-site with rotating exhibits of Japanese art.

Direct access to Kyoto Station
Multiple dining options
Spacious rooms with city views

$180-$300/night

Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Station

Kyoto Station

Kyoto Station (0.3 km)
To-ji Temple (1 km)
Kyoto Aquarium (1.2 km)

This contemporary hotel houses one of the top-rated lounges for morning coffee and scenic train views.

Modern amenities
Great location for train access
Friendly staff

$120-$200/night

Luxury Hotels: The Ultimate Getaway

Indulge in opulence by exploring our top-rated Luxury hotels in Kyoto for a memorable stay.

Hotel Name

Description

Price per night

Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Kyoto Premier

Central Kyoto

Gion District (1 km)
Nijo Castle (3 km)
Kiyomizu Temple (2.5 km)

Nestled along the Kamogawa River, it offers river-view rooms equipped with tatami mats for a traditional feel.

Breathtaking river views
Upscale Japanese-style rooms
Central location for sightseeing

$250-$450/night

Kyoto Tokyu Hotel

Shimogyo Ward

Nishi Hongan-ji Temple (0.8 km)
Kyoto Aquarium (1.5 km)
Kyoto Station (1.2 km)

Famous for its serene waterfall courtyard, it provides a zen-inspired stay in the heart of Kyoto.

Luxurious ambiance
Shuttle service to attractions
Award-winning dining options

$200-$400/night

Kyoto Century Hotel

Kyoto Station

Kyoto Station (0.3 km)
Kyoto Tower (0.5 km)
Fushimi Inari Shrine (4 km)

This hotel combines old-world charm with modern luxury and features a Michelin-rated restaurant.

Michelin dining
Elegant interiors
Proximity to Kyoto Station

$220-$400/night

Boutique Hotels: Hidden Gems by the Lake

Uncover artistic and unique stays with our curated selection of Boutique hotels in Kyoto.

Hotel Name

Description

Price per night

Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel

Otsu

Lake Biwa Museum (5 km)
Ishiyama-dera Temple (7 km)
Hieizan Enryaku-ji (10 km)

This lakefront hotel holds the record for the tallest building in Shiga Prefecture, offering unparalleled panoramic vistas of Lake Biwa.

Lakefront location
Spectacular views
Friendly, attentive service

$100-$250/night

Hotel M'S Est Shijo Karasuma

Shimogyo Ward

Nishiki Market (0.4 km)
Gion District (1.5 km)
Kyoto Tower (2.3 km)

This stylish boutique hotel features compact, design-focused rooms with artistic touches reflecting Kyoto's cultural heritage.

Modern design
Affordable rates
Located in a lively area

$80-$150/night

Karasuma Kyoto Hotel

Shimogyo Ward

Nishiki Market (0.5 km)
Kyoto Imperial Palace (3 km)
Kyoto Station (2 km)

A favorite among tea enthusiasts, it hosts a matcha tasting event every weekend in its traditional lounge.

Cultural events
Great public transport access
Warm hospitality

$100-$180/night

Family-Friendly Hotels: Comfort for All Ages

Discover more Family Friendly hotels in Kyoto designed to cater to travelers of all ages.

Hotel Name

Description

Price per night

Hotel Vischio Kyoto By Granvia

Kyoto Station

Kyoto Station (0.5 km)
Kyoto Tower (0.8 km)
To-ji Temple (1.3 km)

This hotel features a kids' playroom designed with Japanese fairy tale themes to keep little ones entertained.

Spacious family rooms
Child-friendly amenities
Convenient location

$120-$200/night

Smile Hotel Kyoto Shijo

Shijo

Nishiki Market (0.5 km)
Gion District (2 km)
Kyoto Station (3 km)

Budget-friendly and central, it provides complimentary pajamas for children, making family stays stress-free and fun.

Affordable rates
Kid-friendly promotions
Central shopping area access

$80-$150/night

Hotel Keihan Kyoto Grande

Kyoto Station

Kyoto Tower (0.4 km)
To-ji Temple (1 km)
Nishi Hongan-ji Temple (1.5 km)

Known for its family suite packages, it also offers in-room projector games for an unforgettable family evening.

Family suite options
Innovative in-room entertainment
Adjacent to Kyoto Station

$130-$220/night

Hotels with Indoor Pools: Stay Active and Relaxed

Find more Hotels with indoor pool in Kyoto to enjoy year-round swimming and relaxation.

Hotel Name

Description

Price per night

Rhino Hotel Kyoto

Ukyo Ward

Nijo Castle (2.5 km)
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (6 km)
Kyoto Imperial Palace (5 km)

Offering a full-size indoor pool and adjacent sauna, this hotel is also home to a fitness studio used by locals.

Excellent pool and spa facilities
Affordable rates for fitness enthusiasts
Near public transportation

$100-$180/night

Dusit Thani Kyoto

Shimogyo Ward

Kyoto Station (1.5 km)
Nishiki Market (3 km)
To-ji Temple (2 km)

Inspired by Thai design, this hotel offers a heated indoor pool surrounded by tropical plants for a unique Kyoto-Thai blend experience.

Luxurious tropical-themed pool
Unique Thai influences
Impeccable service

$250-$400/night

Ana Crowne Plaza Hotel Kyoto By Ihg

Nakagyo Ward

Nijo Castle (0.3 km)
Kyoto Imperial Palace (2.5 km)
Kyoto Station (4 km)

Located near Nijo Castle, this hotel boasts the largest indoor pool in Kyoto, perfect for lap swimming enthusiasts.

Massive indoor pool
Close to Nijo Castle
World-class dining options

$200-$350/night

Frequently asked question

What are the best hotels near Shirahige Shrine at Lake Biwa?

For a scenic stay near Shirahige Shrine, you can consider hotels like Biwako Ryokusuitei, offering lake views and traditional Japanese rooms.

Are there family-friendly hotels in the Lake Biwa area?

Yes, family-friendly hotels such as Lake Biwa Marriott Hotel provide kid-friendly amenities like spacious rooms and an indoor swimming pool.

What is the average nightly cost for hotels near Hikone Castle?

Hotels near Hikone Castle typically range from $80 to $150 per night, with options like Comfort Hotel Hikone or Hikone Castle Resort offering affordability and comfort.

Are there any boutique hotels around Lake Biwa for couples?

Boutique hotels like Biwako Hanakaido are ideal for couples, offering private onsen baths and romantic lakefront views.

Which hotels near Lake Biwa provide easy access to local activities like cycling or water sports?

Biwako Hotel in Otsu City offers bike rentals and is located near water sports hubs along the southern edge of Lake Biwa.