Search Shiga Prefecture Hotels

Top reasons to visit Shiga Prefecture

• Stunning Lake Biwa: Explore Japan's largest freshwater lake, offering scenic views and various water activities.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Visit historic temples, shrines, and museums that showcase Shiga's unique heritage.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities amidst breathtaking landscapes.
• Charming Cities: Discover picturesque towns like Otsu and Biwa Valley, perfect for leisurely exploration.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Experience a range of stays, from modern hotels to traditional ryokans.

Find great hotels in Shiga Prefecture

Shiga Prefecture offers a delightful array of accommodation options, including hotels and traditional ryokans, perfect for every traveller. From the serene hot spring retreats to LGBTQIA-friendly stays, you'll find a welcoming atmosphere suited for both leisure and business. Notable choices like ab hotel Hikone provide modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable and connected experience during your visit to this picturesque region of Japan.

• Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel: Embrace the tranquillity of nature at Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel, a 3.5-star retreat nestled alongside Japan's largest freshwater lake. Perfectly tailored for business travellers and golf enthusiasts, this hotel offers a unique golf-themed experience with easy access to on-site golfing facilities. Guests can indulge in breathtaking lake views while enjoying well-appointed rooms that blend comfort with modern amenities. With a focus on relaxation and recreation, the hotel also provides business services, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both work and leisure in a serene setting.
• Toyoko Inn Maibara Station Shinkansen Nishi: Strategically located near Maibara Station, this 3-star hotel offers convenience and comfort for the discerning traveller. The property features complimentary Japanese breakfast options, ensuring a hearty start to your day. With a variety of local restaurant guides available, guests can easily explore the culinary delights of the area. Entertainment options, including television, provide a relaxing atmosphere after a day of exploring Shiga Prefecture. Known for its friendly service and solid value, Toyoko Inn is a great choice for those looking for practicality without compromising on comfort.
• Toyoko Inn Hikone Station Higashi: Located conveniently near Hikone Station, this hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere with a focus on guest satisfaction. With complimentary daily breakfast options, including a buffet, guests can enjoy a delicious start to their mornings. The hotel features various entertainment choices such as pay movies and karaoke, ensuring a fun stay. Guests can explore nearby attractions like the city centre and the historical district, making it an ideal base for sightseeing. The combination of comfort, convenience, and engaging activities makes Toyoko Inn Hikone Station Higashi a popular choice for visitors.

Where to stay in Shiga Prefecture

Shiga Prefecture offers a delightful blend of culture and scenery, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Explore charming cities like Otsu, with its stunning views of Lake Biwa, and venture to the picturesque Biwa Valley. Just a stone's throw from Kyoto, Shiga provides easy access to cultural experiences and family-friendly activities. For winter sports fans, the closest ski resorts are within reach, ensuring a memorable stay in this welcoming region.

• Otsu: Nestled by the shores of Lake Biwa, Otsu is the capital city of Shiga Prefecture, offering a blend of stunning natural scenery and cultural heritage. Visitors are drawn to its picturesque landscapes, especially during the cherry blossom season in March and April, as well as in the summer months. Otsu is renowned for its onsen (hot springs) and body treatment facilities, making it an ideal destination for relaxation. The city is also home to the impressive Otsu Festival, showcasing traditional floats and vibrant performances. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the nearby planetarium observatory for a unique stargazing experience.
• Nagahama: Situated along the northern shores of Lake Biwa, Nagahama is a charming city with a rich history and vibrant outdoor experiences. This city sees a surge in visitors during April and the summer months, offering a perfect backdrop for romantic getaways and family adventures. Explore the historic Nagahama Castle and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding parks. For those seeking a bit of adventure, the nearby ski resorts provide excellent opportunities for winter sports. Nagahama's onsens and body treatment centres further enhance its appeal, promising a rejuvenating escape.
• Kusatsu: Known for its rejuvenating hot springs, Kusatsu is a delightful city located in Shiga Prefecture, attracting families and couples alike. The peak visitor seasons in February, April, and September bring lively atmosphere and numerous activities. Stroll through the picturesque town centre, where traditional ryokans (inns) and modern shopping areas coexist harmoniously. Kusatsu also features beautiful lakes and scenic spots perfect for outdoor adventures. The planetarium observatory provides an educational yet captivating experience, making Kusatsu a well-rounded destination for relaxation and exploration.

Things to do in Shiga Prefecture

Shiga Prefecture is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers, offering breathtaking scenery and a variety of activities. Visitors can indulge in body treatments, explore vibrant shopping areas, or enjoy the thrills of amusement parks. For those planning day trips, Shiga provides numerous options to experience its natural beauty and cultural heritage, ensuring a memorable vacation.

Shopping

Mitsui Outlet Park offers a vibrant shopping experience with a mix of business and family-friendly entertainment. For unique local products, visit Roadside Station Biwako Ohashi Kome Plaza. Pieri Moriyama Mall combines a lively atmosphere with diverse shopping options, perfect for souvenirs and gifts from Shiga Prefecture.

Recreation

At Kibogaoka Culture Park, immerse yourself in nature with tranquil walking trails and serene gardens, perfect for relaxation. G Park Shigaraki Golf Club offers a delightful golfing experience amidst lush landscapes, while Big Breath Ibuki Sports Park provides various sports facilities for active recreation and invigorating outdoor activities.

Adventure

Biwako Valley Ski Resort offers exhilarating skiing experiences amid stunning landscapes, perfect for adrenaline seekers. For a unique adventure, take the Mt. Hachiman Castle Ruins Lift, which provides breathtaking views and a family-friendly outdoor experience, making it an ideal spot for exploration and fun.

Nightlife

In Shiga Prefecture, Biwako Hall offers a romantic theatre experience, immersing you in culture and entertainment. The Astronomical Observation Center and Hotaru Planetarium provide family-friendly fun under the stars, making for a delightful evening of exploration and wonder.

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 prices are lower. Midweek stays, particularly on Wednesdays, often yield the best hotel rates. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodation by sorting options from lowest to highest price and looking for last-minute deals. Combining hotel, flight, and activity bookings through an Expedia package can lead to further savings. Additionally, take advantage of free activities like exploring the scenic landscapes, and use public transport, which is both affordable and efficient.

• 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Shiga Prefecture is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• 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 preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservations in Shiga Prefecture with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Shiga Prefecture

Shiga Prefecture offers an enchanting blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking scenic beauty and family-friendly adventures. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including temples, shrines, and museums, all of which showcase the rich heritage and natural splendour of the region. Whether you're drawn to serene landscapes or immersive cultural sites, Shiga promises an unforgettable holiday experience.

• Lake Biwa: Experience the serene beauty of Japan's largest freshwater lake, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich cultural history. Enjoy outdoor activities like cycling, boating, and relaxing on the beach, all while soaking in the romantic atmosphere that Lake Biwa offers.
• Sawayama Castle Ruins: Explore the remnants of this historic castle, which offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal past. The ruins are set against a backdrop of lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.
• Konki Park: This urban park is ideal for families, featuring playgrounds, walking paths, and picnic areas. Enjoy a leisurely stroll amidst the city vibes, or partake in outdoor activities while appreciating the park's well-maintained gardens.

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