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Top reasons to visit Shiga Prefecture

• Stunning Natural Beauty: Shiga Prefecture is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, particularly around Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Visitors can explore historical sites, including temples and the iconic Hikone Castle, steeped in Japanese heritage.
• Outdoor Adventures: The region offers diverse activities such as hiking, skiing, and exploring scenic trails, perfect for nature lovers.
• Relaxing Hot Springs: Shiga is home to traditional ryokans and soothing onsen experiences for a rejuvenating getaway.
• Charming Local Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the friendly local culture, vibrant shopping areas, and delightful cuisine.

Find great hotels in Shiga Prefecture

Explore a diverse range of accommodation options in Shiga Prefecture, where you can find both modern hotels and traditional ryokans. This picturesque region offers a unique blend of hot spring experiences, business-friendly facilities, and LGBTQIA welcoming environments, ensuring a memorable stay for all travellers. Whether you seek the best hotels or top-rated lodgings, Shiga Prefecture has something to suit every preference and budget.

• Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel: Nestled by the serene shores of Lake Biwa, this 3.5-star hotel offers a golf-themed retreat perfect for both leisure and business travellers. With its stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, guests can indulge in a myriad of golfing activities right at the property. The hotel features well-appointed rooms that provide both comfort and modern amenities, ensuring a relaxing stay. Whether you’re seeking a productive business trip or a tranquil getaway, Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel combines the best of both worlds with its exceptional service and recreational options.
• Toyoko Inn Kyoto Biwako Otsu: This 3-star hotel is ideal for budget-conscious travellers who don’t want to compromise on comfort. Known for its convenient location in Shiga Prefecture, the hotel offers complimentary breakfast options, including a delightful buffet to start your day. Guests appreciate the entertainment facilities featuring a flatscreen television, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. The welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff make this accommodation a great choice for those looking for a practical yet pleasant stay near the attractions of Lake Biwa.
• Toyoko Inn Maibara Station Shinkansen Nishi: Located conveniently near Maibara Station, this 3-star hotel is a fantastic choice for travellers seeking accessibility and comfort. Offering a range of complimentary breakfast options, including local Japanese fare, it caters to diverse tastes. The property features comfortable rooms equipped with televisions for entertainment, ensuring a relaxing stay. Its proximity to public transport makes it an excellent base for exploring the wider Shiga Prefecture and beyond, while the hotel’s warm hospitality guarantees a pleasant experience.

Where to stay in Shiga Prefecture

Shiga Prefecture, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, offers a delightful escape for travellers. Explore the historical charm of Otsu, nestled by Lake Biwa, or visit the picturesque Hikone with its iconic castle. Enjoy local shops and friendly people while soaking in the serene atmosphere. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and romantic getaways, Shiga promises memorable experiences amidst breathtaking scenery and fascinating history.

• Otsu: Nestled near the shores of Lake Biwa, Otsu is a charming city that offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and romantic scenery. The city experiences a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, with peaks in March to April and July. Otsu is well-known for its rejuvenating onsens and hotsprings, providing a perfect retreat for travellers seeking relaxation. The area boasts a variety of attractions, including body treatment facilities, vibrant shopping areas, and a planetarium observatory that offers stunning views of the night sky. The picturesque lake and surrounding landscapes make Otsu a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
• Nagahama: Located along the banks of Lake Biwa, Nagahama is a city steeped in history and natural beauty. Popular among tourists, especially during April and the summer months, Nagahama offers a plethora of outdoor activities, from scenic hikes to thrilling ski resorts. The city is also famous for its onsens and hotsprings, providing a soothing escape after a day of exploration. Visitors can indulge in body treatments or enjoy the stunning vistas that the area has to offer. With its romantic atmosphere and scenic landscapes, Nagahama is an ideal destination for couples and families alike.
• Kusatsu: Renowned for its therapeutic onsens and charming scenery, Kusatsu is a delightful city that attracts visitors year-round, particularly in February, April, and September. Kusatsu offers an array of outdoor experiences, from serene lakeside strolls to invigorating hikes. The city is home to several notable attractions, including a planetarium observatory and lively shopping areas, ensuring a memorable travel experience. The combination of stunning landscapes and romantic settings makes Kusatsu a perfect getaway for those seeking both adventure and relaxation amidst nature's beauty.

Things to do in Shiga Prefecture

Shiga Prefecture offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and scenic beauty, making it perfect for romantic getaways. Visitors can indulge in body treatments, explore vibrant shopping areas, and enjoy fun-filled days at amusement parks. Key activities include discovering picturesque hiking trails, visiting ski resorts, and embarking on enjoyable day trips to soak in the stunning landscapes and local culture.

Shopping

In Shiga Prefecture, you can enjoy shopping at Mitsui Outlet Park and Pieri Moriyama Mall, both offering a mix of entertainment and family-friendly options. Don’t miss Roadside Station Biwako Ohashi Kome Plaza for unique local products and souvenirs to take home.

Recreation

At Big Breath Ibuki Sports Park, immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere filled with various sports activities that invigorate the body. Meanwhile, Green Park Santo offers a serene environment perfect for relaxation and wellness, while G Park Shigaraki Golf Club invites you to enjoy the great outdoors amidst stunning golf courses.

Adventure

Biwako Valley Ski Resort offers exhilarating skiing experiences amidst stunning landscapes, perfect for snow sports enthusiasts. For families seeking adventure, the Mt. Hachiman Castle Ruins Lift provides breathtaking views and outdoor exploration. Additionally, the Hakodateyama Ski Area promises thrilling skiing opportunities with a vibrant atmosphere.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Shiga Prefecture offers a blend of culture and entertainment. Enjoy a captivating performance at Biwako Hall, or immerse yourself in the cosmos at the Astronomical Observation Center and Hotaru Planetarium, both perfect for family fun and wonder under the stars.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shiga Prefecture

To save money on your trip to Shiga Prefecture, consider visiting during the cheaper months of June to July and September. Booking your accommodation around a month in advance typically yields the best prices, with Wednesdays being the least expensive nights to stay. Utilise Expedia’s last-minute deals and search tools to find affordable options, and consider combining your hotel with flights and activities for added savings. Opt for eco-certified hotels for budget-friendly, sustainable choices, and enjoy free activities in the region to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Shiga Prefecture are June to July and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, August and November, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Shiga Prefecture about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Shiga Prefecture is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Shiga Prefecture is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel reservation in Shiga Prefecture with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Shiga Prefecture

Shiga Prefecture offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, breathtaking scenery, and romantic getaways. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including temples, shrines, and museums, providing rich cultural experiences for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're seeking tranquillity or family-friendly activities, Shiga Prefecture has something to offer every traveller.

• Lake Biwa: Experience the serene beauty of Japan's largest lake, perfect for a romantic getaway or outdoor adventures. Enjoy picturesque beaches, scenic views, and opportunities for water activities, making it a tranquil escape in nature.
• Hikone Castle: Step into Japan’s rich history at this well-preserved castle, renowned for its stunning architecture and cultural significance. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, Hikone Castle offers a romantic atmosphere and a glimpse into the Edo period.
• Mount Ibuki: Embark on an adventurous journey to Mount Ibuki, where breathtaking vistas await. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, this mountain offers hiking trails that reveal stunning scenery and a sense of accomplishment at its summit.

Best time to go to Shiga Prefecture

The best time to visit Shiga Prefecture can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Shiga Prefecture falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Shiga Prefecture falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	37.2°F (2.9000000000000004°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	38.8°F (3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	45.5°F (7.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	70.3°F (21.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
July	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly Low
August	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	72.9°F (22.700000000000003°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
December	41.9°F (5.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Shiga Prefecture

When planning your visit to Shiga Prefecture, you can fly into several major airports. Kansai International Airport (KIX) is approximately 85.3km away, with nearby accommodation options like the 4-star Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, just 161m from the airport, and Star Gate Hotel Kansai Airport, located 6.4km away. Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) is about 88.5km away, offering options such as the 4-star Kamenoi Hotel Chitamihama, 9.7km from the airport, and the 3.5-star Centrair Hotel, a mere 161m from NGO. Kobe Airport (UKB) is around 46.4km from Shiga, with the 5-star ANA Crowne Plaza Kobe, 8.0km away, and the 4.5-star Kobe Portopia Hotel, just 3.2km from the airport.