Find the best Shiga Prefecture Hotels

Top reasons to visit Shiga Prefecture

• Stunning Natural Scenery: Shiga is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, particularly the stunning autumn foliage and scenic views around Lake Biwa.
• Cultural Richness: Explore a wealth of cultural attractions, including ancient temples, shrines, and museums that showcase the region's history.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy a range of outdoor activities, from skiing to golfing, catering to adventure enthusiasts and families alike.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Shiga offers amusement parks and water parks, ensuring fun for visitors of all ages.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from traditional ryokans to modern hotels, many providing a welcoming atmosphere and affordable rates.

Find great hotels in Shiga Prefecture

Shiga Prefecture offers a delightful array of accommodation options, from traditional ryokans to modern hotels. Whether you're seeking a hot spring experience, a business-friendly environment, or an LGBTQIA welcoming atmosphere, you'll find suitable choices in Moriyama and Nagahama. Many hotels provide free Wi-Fi and affordable rates, making it easy for travellers to enjoy the beauty and culture of this charming region without breaking the bank.

• Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel: Nestled alongside the serene Lake Biwa, this 3.5-star hotel is perfect for both business and golf enthusiasts. With a focus on facilitating productive stays, it features comprehensive business amenities including a well-equipped Business Centre, multiple Meeting Rooms, and expansive Conference Space. Golf lovers will appreciate the easy access to golf-themed activities, ensuring a fulfilling experience amidst stunning natural surroundings. The hotel's tranquil ambiance and picturesque views make it an ideal retreat for professional travellers seeking a blend of work and leisure.
• Hotel Boston Plaza Kusatsu: This charming 3.5-star hotel boasts a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Kusatsu. Guests can indulge in a delightful array of dining options, including a breakfast buffet, various restaurants, and a coffee shop. Entertainment is at your fingertips with Digital TV, LCD screens, and Pay Movies available in rooms. Located near the city centre and shopping districts, the hotel offers easy access to local attractions, making it a perfect base for exploring the lively culture and vibrant shopping scene of the area.
• Apa Hotel Biwako Seta Ekimae: A welcoming 3-star hotel, Apa Hotel Biwako Seta Ekimae combines affordability with comfort. It offers a range of dining options, such as a daily restaurant service and buffet breakfast, ensuring a satisfying start to your day. Guests can unwind with entertainment options that include Digital TVs and traditional television setups. Its convenient location makes it ideal for those looking to explore Shiga Prefecture, providing easy access to nearby attractions while offering a relaxing atmosphere for a restful stay.

Where to stay in Shiga Prefecture

Shiga Prefecture offers a delightful blend of breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and historical charm, perfect for family vacations. Explore the stunning autumn foliage that blankets the landscape, visit the picturesque cities like Otsu, and enjoy budget-friendly attractions. With its friendly locals and vibrant atmosphere, Shiga promises a memorable experience filled with outdoor adventures and cultural discoveries that cater to every traveller's desires.

• Otsu: Nestled at the edge of Lake Biwa, Otsu serves as the capital city of Shiga Prefecture. It offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures and romantic scenery, making it a delightful destination year-round. While visitor numbers peak during the cherry blossom season in March to April and the summer months of July, the city remains a hidden gem in the off-peak months. Otsu is renowned for its luxurious onsen and hotspring resorts, providing a perfect retreat after a day of exploration. Don't miss the planetarium observatory for a stargazing experience and the opportunity to partake in winter sports at nearby ski facilities.
• Nagahama: Located along the shores of Lake Biwa, Nagahama is famed for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant outdoor activities. The city sees a surge of visitors from April through August, drawn by its scenic beauty and romantic atmosphere. Nagahama is ideal for those seeking relaxation and adventure alike, with excellent body treatment services and ski resorts in the vicinity. Explore the serene lakeside and indulge in the local hotspring culture that makes this city a peaceful getaway. The charm of Nagahama lies in its ability to offer both tranquillity and fun, ensuring a memorable experience for all.
• Hikone: Renowned for its rich cultural heritage, Hikone is home to the stunning Hikone Castle, a designated Important Cultural Property. The city attracts visitors primarily in spring and late summer, favouring those interested in outdoor, romantic, and culturally themed experiences. As you wander through Hikone, you'll discover beautiful lakeside views and historic sites that reflect the area's storied past. Enjoy thrilling adventures at the local amusement and water parks, or unwind with body treatments in the nearby spas. Hikone is an enchanting destination where tradition meets leisure, offering something special for every traveller.

Things to do in Shiga Prefecture

Shiga Prefecture offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions. Visitors can indulge in body treatments, enjoy the thrills of amusement and water parks, or embrace the beauty of the region through challenging rounds of golf and classical music performances. For those seeking adventure, skiing classes provide an exhilarating experience, making Shiga a perfect destination for a memorable vacation.

Shopping

In Shiga Prefecture, you can enjoy shopping at Mitsui Outlet Park and Pieri Moriyama Mall, both offering a vibrant mix of entertainment and family-friendly activities. Don't forget to stop by Taga Service Area Nobori for unique gifts and local souvenirs during your visit.

Recreation

Kibogaoka Culture Park offers a serene environment for relaxation amidst nature, perfect for leisurely strolls. At Big Breath Ibuki Sports Park, engage in invigorating sports activities that boost your vitality. Ritto-city Yasu River Athletic Park provides tranquil spaces for wellness, ideal for yoga and meditation amidst scenic views.

Adventure

Biwako Valley Ski Resort offers thrilling skiing and snowboarding experiences amidst stunning mountain scenery. For a blend of adventure and outdoor fun, visit the Biwako Valley skiField. Alternatively, take the Mt. Hachiman Castle Ruins Lift for breathtaking views and family-friendly adventures in the great outdoors.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Shiga Prefecture at Biwako Hall, where culture and romance blend seamlessly. For a unique twist, visit the Hotaru Planetarium or the Astronomical Observation Center, both offering captivating entertainment under the stars. Enjoy an enchanting evening immersed in the local atmosphere.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shiga Prefecture

To save money during your visit to Shiga Prefecture, consider travelling in the off-peak months of June to July and September for lower accommodation rates. Booking your hotel about a month in advance usually yields the best prices, particularly if you target stays on Wednesdays, which are less expensive than Sundays. Utilise Expedia's search tools to find budget-friendly options, including eco-certified hotels. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities to maximise 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to tailor your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most economical options and offers, simply adjust the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You might find it beneficial to save on costs 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 a delightful blend of outdoor activities, stunning scenery, and family-friendly experiences. Visitors can explore a variety of cultural attractions, including temples, shrines, and museums, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a rich cultural experience alongside outdoor adventures. Whether you're interested in the area's historical sites or its natural beauty, Shiga Prefecture provides an array of options for every traveller.

• Lake Biwa: Experience the serene beauty of Japan's largest lake, where you can enjoy picturesque beaches, stunning landscapes, and a romantic atmosphere. Ideal for outdoor activities such as boating and cycling, Lake Biwa offers a refreshing escape into nature.
• Hikone Castle: Step back in time at Hikone Castle, a splendid example of traditional Japanese architecture. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, this castle exudes a romantic charm and provides a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.
• Mount Hiei: Discover the spiritual and cultural significance of Mount Hiei, home to numerous temples and stunning vistas. This site offers a peaceful retreat and an opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and history.

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

For your visit to Shiga Prefecture, you can consider flying into three major airports. Osaka's Kansai International Airport (KIX), located 85.3km away, has nearby hotels such as the 4-star Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, just 161m away, and the Star Gate Hotel Kansai Airport, 6.4km away. Nagoya's Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) is 88.5km from Shiga, with options like the 4-star Kamenoi Hotel Chitamihama, 9.7km away. Closer is Osaka's Itami Airport (ITM), situated 45.1km from Shiga, featuring the luxurious InterContinental Osaka and Conrad Osaka, both 11.3km away. Each hotel offers convenient transportation services to the airports.