5-Star Hotels in Shiga Prefecture, Japan

Grand Mercure Lake Biwa Resort & Spa sits on the banks of Lake Biwa, the oldest and largest freshwater lake in Japan. If you're looking for the best resort near Lake Biwa, our hotel has a beautiful lakeside location and easy access to the historical Tokaido region to explore. Relax by the pool with lake views or enjoy an onsen in our hot spring rock bath with natural iron-rich waters. Enjoy a serene atmosphere with upscale décor and rooms with mountain or lake views in our Lake Biwa onsen resort.

With a stay at Biwako Hotel, you'll be centrally located in Otsu, within a 10-minute walk of Otsu Port and Biwako Flower Fountain. This hotel is 0.8 mi (1.2 km) from Lake Biwa Canal and 1.2 mi (2 km) from Mii-dera. Don't miss out on the many recreational opportunities, including hot springs, a seasonal outdoor pool, and bicycles to rent. Additional amenities at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and gift shops/newsstands. Grab a bite to eat at one of the hotel's many dining establishments, which include 4 restaurants and a coffee shop/cafe. Quench your thirst with your favorite drink at the bar/lounge. Buffet breakfasts are available daily from 7 AM to 10 AM for a fee. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, and an elevator. A train station pick-up service is provided at no charge, and free self parking is available onsite. Make yourself at home in one of the 175 guestrooms. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected. Bathrooms feature shower/tub combinations, hair dryers, and toilets with an electronic bidet. Conveniences include safes and desks, and housekeeping is provided daily.

This ryokan is located on the shores of Lake Biwa, Japan’s lake, offering open and expansive views from the large public bath and lobby. For dinner, guests can enjoy a Japanese kaiseki meal prepared with seasonal ingredients. The annex, “Kyo-Oumi,” features VIP rooms, each with a private open-air hot spring bath, offering a view that feels as if you are floating on Lake Biwa. The facility also includes a convenience store, spa, coffee lounge, and other well-equipped public spaces. Complimentary shuttle bus service is available to and from JR Ogoto Onsen Station.

Located in Koka, Keyaki no yado En is a 3-minute drive from Kohara Yojiro Shoten and 10 minutes from Miho Museum. This ryokan is 17.1 mi (27.5 km) from Lake Biwa and 5 mi (8.1 km) from Topeak MTB Land. This ryokan offers designated smoking areas. Japanese breakfasts are available daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM for a fee. Make yourself at home in one of the air-conditioned rooms featuring Smart televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and digital programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms have shower/tub combinations and hair dryers.