Hotels near Lake Biwa

Top reasons to visit Lake Biwa

• Stunning Lake Views: Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake, offers breathtaking scenery that captivates visitors.
• Cultural Exploration: Discover local heritage through temples, shrines, and the historic Hikone Castle.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy activities like fishing, rowing, and hiking along picturesque trails.
• Relaxing Onsen Experience: Unwind in rejuvenating hot springs, perfect for relaxation after a day of adventure.
• Charming Local Cuisine: Savor delicious local dishes in the quaint streets of Otsu, filled with unique eateries.

Find great hotels near Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa offers a delightful selection of accommodations, ranging from charming lodges to luxurious hotels, perfect for every traveller. Experience the rejuvenating hot springs and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQIA guests. Whether you're seeking a lakeside retreat or a ski vacation, you'll find exceptional hotels like Biwako that cater to your needs, providing comfortable guest rooms and stunning views of Japan's largest freshwater lake.

• Toyoko Inn Maibara Station Shinkansen Nishi: Situated a mere 12.9km from the picturesque Lake Biwa, Toyoko Inn Maibara Station Shinkansen Nishi is a charming 3-star hotel that offers a delightful blend of convenience and comfort. Guests can indulge in a selection of complimentary breakfast options, including a traditional Japanese breakfast, ensuring a hearty start to the day. The hotel also features a television for entertainment, making it a perfect spot for travellers seeking a relaxed, homely atmosphere after a day of exploration.
• Toyoko Inn Hikone Station Higashi: Located 14.5km from Lake Biwa, Toyoko Inn Hikone Station Higashi presents a welcoming environment for visitors. The hotel offers a complimentary buffet breakfast, catering to a variety of tastes. For entertainment, guests can enjoy pay movies, a flatscreen TV, and even karaoke, adding a fun twist to your stay. The property is strategically positioned near the city centre and historical district, providing easy access to cultural landmarks and local attractions.
• Comfort Hotel Hikone: Also located 14.5km from Lake Biwa, Comfort Hotel Hikone is a standout choice for LGBTQIA-friendly travellers, promoting an inclusive atmosphere throughout its facilities. This 3-star hotel offers a comfortable and welcoming environment, ensuring that all guests feel at home. With its affiliation with LGBTQI travel guides, it provides tailored recommendations and services to enhance your stay, making it a perfect base for exploring the wonders of Shiga Prefecture.

Where to stay near Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa, nestled in Shiga Prefecture, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and adventure for every traveller. Discover the charming streets of Otsu, with its city centre brimming with local eateries and unique shops. Unwind in nearby onsens, or embark on scenic hikes along the lake's shores. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the tranquil beauty of Hikone Castle and the surrounding gardens, providing a glimpse into Japan's rich heritage and natural splendour.

• Nagahama: Situated approximately 17.7km from the stunning shores of Lake Biwa, Nagahama is a charming city that offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities and scenic beauty. Known for its romantic atmosphere, visitors flock here primarily in April and during the summer months of July to August. The city boasts various outdoor venues, including ski resorts and idyllic lakeside spots. A visit to Nagahama wouldn't be complete without indulging in the local onsens and hot springs, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploration.
• Hikone: Located about 12.9km from Lake Biwa, Hikone is steeped in culture and history, attracting tourists keen on outdoor adventures and romantic getaways. Peak travel times are observed in March to April and again in August. This city is home to the famous Hikone Castle, a historic site surrounded by beautiful gardens. Visitors can also enjoy unique experiences at the nearby water park and planetarium observatory, making Hikone a well-rounded destination for various interests. The local onsens provide a perfect retreat after a day of sightseeing.
• Takashima: Just 14.5km from Lake Biwa, Takashima is a picturesque city known for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor experiences. Popular during the summer and autumn months, particularly in July and September, Takashima offers a romantic backdrop for visitors. With access to ski fields and serene lakes, it’s an ideal spot for adventure lovers. Don’t miss the chance to unwind in the local onsens and hot springs, which add to the city’s allure as a tranquil getaway.

Things to do near Lake Biwa

Experience the charm of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture with a range of activities including fishing, rowing, and scuba diving. Enjoy a memorable stay as you indulge in onsen baths and embrace outdoor adventures perfect for summer fun. This stunning location is ideal for weekend getaways, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement amidst breathtaking natural scenery.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience, visit Shinasahi Fushamura Road Station, located 8.0km from Lake Biwa, where you'll find unique local products. If you're up for a drive, the Japan Sea Fish Market and Mitsui Outlet Park, both 20 and 33.8km away respectively, offer a vibrant mix of goods and entertainment.

Recreation

Big Breath Ibuki Sports Park offers invigorating sports facilities with a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for those looking to stay active. For a serene retreat, Green Park Santo and Green Park Omoideno-mori provide tranquil environments, ideal for relaxation and wellness activities surrounded by nature's beauty.

Adventure

At Hakodateyama Ski Area, experience exhilarating skiing with breathtaking views, located 17.7km from Lake Biwa. For a scenic adventure, the Mt. Hachiman Castle Ruins Lift offers a family-friendly gondola ride 24.1km away, while Shizugatake Lifts, also 17.7km away, promises thrilling ski experiences amidst stunning landscapes.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Lake Biwa offers a diverse range of activities. Enjoy stargazing at Ikedayama Observatory, indulge in fun at Aquatom Adventure Zone, or experience the cultural charm of Biwako Hall theatre, perfect for romance and entertainment.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lake Biwa

To save money on your visit to Lake Biwa, consider travelling between June to July or September, when accommodation prices are lower compared to peak months like April and October. Booking your stay about a month in advance often yields the best rates, with Wednesdays generally being the cheapest days. For spontaneous plans, check Expedia's last-minute deals. You can also save by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities through Expedia packages. Remember to use their price filter to compare room rates and uncover additional discounts.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Lake Biwa are June to July and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and October to November, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Lake Biwa 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 around Lake Biwa is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Lake Biwa is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel accommodation at Lake Biwa with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture offers a delightful blend of cultural and outdoor experiences, making it a perfect destination for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore an array of temples, museums, and shrines while enjoying stunning lake views. With numerous local attractions and nearby points of interest, Lake Biwa promises a memorable holiday for all travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

• Hikone Castle: Nestled 12.9km from Lake Biwa, Hikone Castle offers a romantic atmosphere steeped in history. As one of Japan's few remaining original castles, visitors can explore its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, providing a glimpse into Japan's feudal past.
• Makino Pickland: Located 16.1km away from Lake Biwa, Makino Pickland is a vibrant farm that promises an adventurous experience. Visitors can enjoy fruit picking, explore flower fields, and savour fresh produce, making it a delightful outing for families and nature lovers.
• Kunitomo Village Gun Museum: Situated 12.9km from Lake Biwa, this museum showcases a unique collection of firearms, highlighting Japan's rich culture and history in weaponry. Its informative displays offer insight into the craftsmanship and significance of these historical pieces.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Lake Biwa

To visit Lake Biwa, you can fly into several major airports. Nagoya's Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) is approximately 82.1km from Lake Biwa, with nearby accommodation options such as the 4-star Kamenoi Hotel Chitamihama, 9.7km away, and the 3.5-star Centrair Hotel, only 161m from the airport. Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) is about 59.7km away, with luxurious hotels like the 5-star Swissotel Nankai Osaka, 14.5km distant. Another option is Nagoya Komaki Airport (NKM), situated 72.4km from Lake Biwa, offering hotels such as the 4.5-star Nagoya Tokyu Hotel, 8.0km away, with convenient airport shuttle services available.