Hotels in Shiga Prefecture

Top reasons to visit Shiga Prefecture

• Scenic Lake Biwa: Enjoy the stunning views and outdoor activities around Japan's largest freshwater lake, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
• Cultural Richness: Visit ancient temples, shrines, and museums that showcase Shiga's unique history and traditions.
• Family-Friendly Adventures: Explore amusement parks and charming towns like Otsu, catering to visitors of all ages.
• Traditional Accommodation: Experience unique stays in ryokans with hot springs, offering a blend of comfort and cultural immersion.
• Winter Sports: Access nearby ski resorts for thrilling winter activities, making Shiga a year-round destination.

Find great hotels in Shiga Prefecture

Discover a range of accommodation options in Shiga Prefecture, from modern hotels to traditional ryokans, each offering a unique experience. Popular facilities include hot springs, ideal for relaxation, and amenities catering to business travellers. Many establishments, like AB Hotel Hikone, provide free Wi-Fi and are welcoming to LGBTQIA guests, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors. Explore the diverse lodging choices that perfectly suit your needs during your vacation.

• Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel: Immerse yourself in a golf-themed retreat at the Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel, a 3.5-star establishment nestled by the serene shores of Lake Biwa. Perfect for both leisure and business travellers, this hotel boasts an impressive golf experience that allows guests to indulge in their passion while enjoying stunning views of the lake. The spacious accommodations are designed for comfort and relaxation, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a blend of recreation and professional amenities.
• Hotel Boston Plaza Kusatsu: Experience a delightful stay at Hotel Boston Plaza Kusatsu, a charming 3.5-star hotel situated in the heart of Shiga Prefecture. This property features a variety of dining options, including a restaurant and coffee shop, ensuring that guests can savour delicious meals throughout their stay. With engaging entertainment offerings such as digital TV and pay movies, you’ll have ample options for relaxation. The hotel's prime location provides easy access to nearby shopping districts and the city centre, making it a perfect base for exploring the vibrant local culture.
• Apa Hotel Biwako Seta Ekimae: The Apa Hotel Biwako Seta Ekimae is a 3-star accommodation that combines comfort with convenience. Situated conveniently in Shiga Prefecture, this hotel offers a variety of dining options, including a restaurant and breakfast facilities tailored to suit families. Guests can unwind in their rooms equipped with digital TVs and traditional television options, ensuring a relaxed evening after a day of sightseeing. The hotel's commitment to guest satisfaction and its proximity to local attractions make it an excellent choice for both short and extended stays.

Where to stay in Shiga Prefecture

Shiga Prefecture offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore charming cities like Otsu, situated near Kyoto, and discover the breathtaking Biwa Valley. For those seeking winter sports, the closest ski resorts are easily accessible. With its rich historical atmosphere and friendly locals, Shiga Prefecture promises a memorable vacation for families and budget-conscious travellers alike.

• Otsu: Nestled at the foot of the stunning Mount Hiei, Otsu is a scenic city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Located on the shores of Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake, Otsu provides visitors with a tranquil setting ideal for outdoor pursuits such as hiking and boating. The city is renowned for its onsen (hot springs), making it a romantic getaway for couples. Key highlights include the picturesque Biwako Valley and the charming Omi Shrine, where you can immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture. Shopping areas and a planetarium observatory add to the vibrant atmosphere, ensuring a memorable travel experience.
• Nagahama: Situated along the western shores of Lake Biwa, Nagahama is a city steeped in history and natural splendour. Known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, the city attracts visitors seeking outdoor adventures and romantic scenery. Nagahama boasts a variety of attractions, including the historic Nagahama Castle and the serene Kurokabe Square, famed for its glassware artisans. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in skiing at nearby resorts during winter, while relaxing in the local onsen throughout the year. The city's blend of culture and nature makes it a delightful destination for travellers.
• Kusatsu: Renowned for its exceptional hot springs, Kusatsu is a charming city that lies amidst lush landscapes and mountainous scenery. It is an ideal retreat for families and couples alike, offering a range of outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing in winter. Visitors can enjoy the iconic Yubatake (hot water field) and soak in the rejuvenating onsen that Kusatsu is famous for. The planetarium observatory and local shopping areas provide additional entertainment options, making Kusatsu a well-rounded destination for relaxation and adventure. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with breathtaking views, ensures a delightful stay.

Things to do in Shiga Prefecture

Shiga Prefecture offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and stunning scenery. Visitors can indulge in body treatments, explore shopping areas, and enjoy a day at an amusement park. Ideal for day trips, Shiga provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration, making it a wonderful destination for those seeking both leisure and cultural enrichment.

Shopping

In Shiga Prefecture, visit Mitsui Outlet Park for a blend of shopping and entertainment, or head to Aeon Mall Kusatsu for family-friendly options. For unique local goods, explore Roadside Station Biwako Ohashi Kome Plaza, offering a charming selection of souvenirs and gifts.

Recreation

Kibogaoka Culture Park offers a tranquil atmosphere with lush greenery, perfect for relaxation and meditation. G Park Shigaraki Golf Club invites you to enjoy the outdoors while honing your golfing skills. Meanwhile, Big Breath Ibuki Sports Park provides various sports facilities for an invigorating workout experience.

Adventure

At Biwako Valley Ski Resort, immerse yourself in exhilarating skiing and snowboarding amidst breathtaking mountain vistas. Experience the thrill of the slopes at Hakodateyama Ski Area, where you can enjoy a vibrant ski atmosphere and outdoor adventures in the heart of Shiga Prefecture.

Nightlife

Experience an enchanting evening at Biwako Hall, where culture and romance intertwine through captivating performances. For a family-friendly outing, visit the Astronomical Observation Center or Hotaru Planetarium to marvel at the stars and enjoy a delightful atmosphere filled with entertainment.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shiga Prefecture

To save money during your visit to Shiga Prefecture, consider travelling in June to July or September when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance often yields the best rates, while Wednesdays are typically the cheapest days to stay. For spontaneous travellers, check last-minute deals on Expedia. Utilise their search tool to compare prices and filter for budget options, including eco-friendly hotels. Lastly, consider booking packages that combine flights, hotels, and activities for greater savings.

• 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 customise your search based on your budget, desired location, and various other criteria. You can organise the results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to easily find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can reduce your expenses by combining your hotel accommodation in Shiga Prefecture with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Shiga Prefecture

Shiga Prefecture offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for a scenic getaway. Visitors can explore a range of attractions, including temples, shrines, and museums, all catering to those seeking family-friendly adventures. Whether you're keen on immersing yourself in local traditions or enjoying the natural beauty, Shiga Prefecture promises an enriching experience for every traveller.

• Lake Biwa: Experience the natural beauty of Japan's largest lake, surrounded by stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Enjoy romantic lakeside strolls, sandy beaches, and water sports, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and adventure alike.
• Mount Hiei: Discover the rich cultural heritage at this sacred mountain, home to the renowned Enryaku-ji Temple. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere and breathtaking views, which offer a glimpse into Japan's spiritual traditions.
• Hikone Castle: Step back in time at this historic castle, known for its stunning architecture and picturesque gardens. The enchanting setting creates a romantic backdrop, while its cultural significance showcases Japan's feudal history.

Best time to go to Shiga Prefecture

The best time to visit Shiga Prefecture is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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