"Great location!! Every attractions in Kanazawa is in walking distance. Markets are nearby and lots of dining options are available. The room is basic but equipped with everything you need."
"Great location!! Every attractions in Kanazawa is in walking distance. Markets are nearby and lots of dining options are available. The room is basic but equipped with everything you need."
"Staff don’t speak English bathroom only on the first floor we were staying at the 4th and no dinner and no breakfast available. Good for a step only one night before Kyoto. "
"Staff don’t speak English bathroom only on the first floor we were staying at the 4th and no dinner and no breakfast available. Good for a step only one night before Kyoto. "
"Small Roykan but facilities are well equipped.
Wide-view of the Lake and location is silent, but no shopping nearby.
You'll love the silence and peace atmosphere.
Around 10 rooms here so the public bath not a big one, while in-room onsen bath with lake view is the best."
"Small Roykan but facilities are well equipped.
Wide-view of the Lake and location is silent, but no shopping nearby.
You'll love the silence and peace atmosphere.
Around 10 rooms here so the public bath not a big one, while in-room onsen bath with lake view is the best."
"The bath facility and sauna was so beautiful and relaxing. Every room and super Japanese modern and designed/remodeled very tastefully. We had a very comfortable stay. "
"The bath facility and sauna was so beautiful and relaxing. Every room and super Japanese modern and designed/remodeled very tastefully. We had a very comfortable stay. "
"This is a basic type of stay. But the hotel is convenient to the train station. The way is well lit and safe. The room and bed are comfortable and quiet, even on the railway side of the building. I do not eat their breakfast, but it does look good."
"This is a basic type of stay. But the hotel is convenient to the train station. The way is well lit and safe. The room and bed are comfortable and quiet, even on the railway side of the building. I do not eat their breakfast, but it does look good."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Ryotanji Temple is just one of the places to see in Hikone, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Stroll along the lakeside or visit the temples while you're in the area.
After visiting Shigaken Gokoku Shrine, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Hikone. Wander the parks and gardens while you're in the area.
You can learn about the history of Hikone with a trip to Sawayama Castle Ruins. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the temples while you're in the area.
Explore the feudal-era Hikone Castle, one of Japan's few original castles, where you can climb ancient wooden stairs for lake views. Rent a bicycle to tour the scenic shores of Lake Biwa or visit the traditional Yume Kyobashi Castle Road with its samurai-period shops and restaurants.
I cannot recommend this place enough! It was so relaxing, beautiful, and the staff was incredible! They offer traditional and local breakfast and dinner that rivaled Michelin star restaurants! It was our first Ryokan experience but definitely will not be our last now. Such an incredible place!
I cannot recommend this place enough! It was so relaxing, beautiful, and the staff was incredible! They offer traditional and local breakfast and dinner that rivaled Michelin star restaurants! It was our first Ryokan experience but definitely will not be our last now. Such an incredible place!
This was a beautiful ryokan to stay. The staff are very helpful to english speaking visitors and can accommodate very well. This ryokan offers you to dine in an intimate setting so you're in a separate room with your guests/partner. Other ryokans have you sit in a restaurant style setting so you're in a large room with open tables. Our waitress and maid was super helpful and very caring for us while we stayed. The ryokan has several onsen locations in the building, they rotate one days the men...
This was a beautiful ryokan to stay. The staff are very helpful to english speaking visitors and can accommodate very well. This ryokan offers you to dine in an intimate setting so you're in a separate room with your guests/partner. Other ryokans have you sit in a restaurant style setting so you're in a large room with open tables. Our waitress and maid was super helpful and very caring for us while we stayed. The ryokan has several onsen locations in the building, they rotate one days the men...
Anonymous traveler
Reviewed November 23, 2016Reviewed November 23, 2016
The hotel is a bit dated but the location is excellent if you want to ride on the Gozaisho Ropeway. It is right next to the Ropeway station. Moreover and since we booked our room on a Sunday that traffic to the hotel is quite bad as a lot of people were driving to the summit to take the ropeway ride.
On the other hand, we take advantage of its vicinity to the station that we are the first taking the ride the next day. Ticket to ropeway riding is sold in the hotel at a discount.
The hotel...
The hotel is a bit dated but the location is excellent if you want to ride on the Gozaisho Ropeway. It is right next to the Ropeway station. Moreover and since we booked our room on a Sunday that traffic to the hotel is quite bad as a lot of people were driving to the summit to take the ropeway ride.
On the other hand, we take advantage of its vicinity to the station that we are the first taking the ride the next day. Ticket to ropeway riding is sold in the hotel at a discount.
The hotel...
Cheok Kuan
Reviewed November 21, 2018Reviewed November 21, 2018
Amazing! The property offered a shuttle ride from the station. We were greeted with a cup of tea. We were also taken to our room and with assistance and given a thorough tour of the space and the services that the hotel provided. The property has a beautiful view of the lake. The room was spacious for our group. Highly recommend the meals offered for dinner and breakfast. The onsen was also clean and spacious.
Amazing! The property offered a shuttle ride from the station. We were greeted with a cup of tea. We were also taken to our room and with assistance and given a thorough tour of the space and the services that the hotel provided. The property has a beautiful view of the lake. The room was spacious for our group. Highly recommend the meals offered for dinner and breakfast. The onsen was also clean and spacious.
The Boston Hotel is literally steps just outside the JR Kusatsu train station. If traveling by train, the convenience really can't be beat.
The room was very clean and well maintained, though small as with many Japanese rooms. Only 2 people can fit so we had 2 rooms for a family of 4 and it worked great. There were slippers and a sleeping gown to freely use and the selection of toiletries was surprisingly robust.
The service was exceptional as we had no trouble speaking with the lobby...
The Boston Hotel is literally steps just outside the JR Kusatsu train station. If traveling by train, the convenience really can't be beat.
The room was very clean and well maintained, though small as with many Japanese rooms. Only 2 people can fit so we had 2 rooms for a family of 4 and it worked great. There were slippers and a sleeping gown to freely use and the selection of toiletries was surprisingly robust.
The service was exceptional as we had no trouble speaking with the lobby...
Vessel Inns really growing on me. Rooms are usually bigger than most standard Japanese biz hotels with free 'proper' coffee in the lobby an added bonus. Breakfast at the downstairs bakery also good.
Vessel Inns really growing on me. Rooms are usually bigger than most standard Japanese biz hotels with free 'proper' coffee in the lobby an added bonus. Breakfast at the downstairs bakery also good.
nicolas
Reviewed December 30, 2025Reviewed December 30, 2025
Quick breakdown, I only had one week to book a hotel and I was looking for a true Japanese B&B.
Staff was amazing and very nice.
Location is 10 minutes (car ride) from JR station. When you get to the station, ask the person in the station to call for your hotel ride. DO NOT attempt to go up that hill with luggage. There is not a walkway. The transport to and from hotel is included in price.
Hotel grounds are large, you can tell that this place used to be very popular.
Public bath is...
Quick breakdown, I only had one week to book a hotel and I was looking for a true Japanese B&B.
Staff was amazing and very nice.
Location is 10 minutes (car ride) from JR station. When you get to the station, ask the person in the station to call for your hotel ride. DO NOT attempt to go up that hill with luggage. There is not a walkway. The transport to and from hotel is included in price.
Hotel grounds are large, you can tell that this place used to be very popular.
Public bath is...
Liana
Reviewed November 21, 2016Reviewed November 21, 2016
From Shikanoyu, it's a 5 minute walk to the cable car (called a Ropeway in Japan) that goes to the top of Mt Gozaisho. It's close to the Suzuka race course, and the flower garden Nabana no Sato. It's also within driving distance of Ise Jingu (1 hr 20 minutes), Kyoto (1 hr 30 minutes) and Hikone Castle (1 hr 25 minutes)
The staff was extremely friendly and helpful, and the food is what you would expect from a good ryokan in Japan...exquisite. My room was spacious and quiet, and the ofuro and...
From Shikanoyu, it's a 5 minute walk to the cable car (called a Ropeway in Japan) that goes to the top of Mt Gozaisho. It's close to the Suzuka race course, and the flower garden Nabana no Sato. It's also within driving distance of Ise Jingu (1 hr 20 minutes), Kyoto (1 hr 30 minutes) and Hikone Castle (1 hr 25 minutes)
The staff was extremely friendly and helpful, and the food is what you would expect from a good ryokan in Japan...exquisite. My room was spacious and quiet, and the ofuro and...
Historic Hikone Castle: A must-visit landmark, this well-preserved castle offers stunning views and rich history.
Beautiful Gardens: Enjoy leisurely strolls through picturesque gardens, showcasing the area's natural beauty.
Hikone Castle Museum: Dive deeper into the local culture with exhibits that highlight the region's history.
Charming Streets and Local Shops: Explore quaint streets filled with unique shops for an authentic Japanese experience.
Variety of Accommodations: From traditional ryokans to modern hotels, find the perfect stay for your needs.
Find great hotels near Hikone
Experience the charm of Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, with a variety of accommodation options tailored to your needs. From the traditional allure of ryokans to modern hotels like Comfort Hotel Hikone and Hotel Sunroute Hikone, you’ll find welcoming spaces perfect for relaxation or business travel. Many hotels also embrace hot spring themes and offer inclusive environments for all guests. Discover your perfect home away from home in Hikone.
Hotel Boston Plaza Kusatsu: Nestled 35.4km from Hikone, Hotel Boston Plaza Kusatsu offers a blend of comfort and culinary delights, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers. This 3.5-star hotel features a variety of dining options, including a buffet breakfast and dinner at the on-site restaurant. Guests can unwind with entertainment amenities like pay movies and LCD TVs. For those looking to explore, the nearby city center and shopping district provide a vibrant atmosphere, offering abundant opportunities for shopping and sightseeing.
Toyoko Inn Maibara Station Shinkansen Nishi: Just 9.7km from Hikone, Toyoko Inn Maibara Station Shinkansen Nishi is perfect for travelers seeking convenience and comfort. This 3-star hotel offers complimentary Japanese breakfast daily, ensuring a great start to your day. With easy access to the Maibara Station, guests can explore the region with ease. The hotel features simple yet cozy accommodations equipped with a television, along with a friendly environment that caters to both business travelers and tourists alike.
Vessel Inn Shiga Moriyama Station: Located 30.6km from Hikone, Vessel Inn Shiga Moriyama Station is a welcoming option for families and LGBTQIA travelers, emphasizing inclusivity and comfort. This 3-star accommodation provides thoughtful amenities for children, including toys, games, and stroller availability, ensuring a family-friendly environment. The hotel’s affiliation with LGBTQI travel guides enhances its reputation for providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, this hotel promises a memorable stay.
Where to stay in and around Hikone
Hikone, nestled in Shiga Prefecture, offers a delightful blend of history and culture perfect for outdoor and romantic getaways. Stroll through the charming streets, visit the renowned Hikone Castle, and explore local shops for an authentic Japanese experience. Nearby neighborhoods provide a mix of adventure and serene escapes, all within walking distance. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly options or secluded spots, Hikone is an ideal destination for a memorable vacation.
Onoe Onsen: Nestled within the beautiful landscapes of Hikone, Onoe Onsen is a charming village renowned for its soothing hot springs. Visitors flock here for a romantic and culturally enriching experience, with opportunities for outdoor activities. The village offers access to shopping centers and areas, making it convenient for those looking to indulge in local goods. Nearby attractions include serene lakes, historic sites, and a stunning castle, all contributing to the area's allure. With peak visitor months in April, August, and November, Onoe Onsen provides a tranquil retreat year-round, although it may be quieter in the winter and early summer.
Toyosato: Located just 6.4km from Hikone, Toyosato is a vibrant city that attracts travelers seeking cultural and outdoor experiences. The city's landmarks include an event conference venue and picturesque lakes, alongside rich historical sites that reflect its heritage. Toyosato experiences a similar seasonal influx of visitors, peaking during the spring and late summer months. The city's lively atmosphere coupled with romantic spots makes it an ideal destination for couples and culture enthusiasts alike, ensuring a memorable visit.
Sugatani Onsen: Sugatani Onsen, another serene village in the Hikone region, is famous for its hot springs and stunning natural scenery. Ideal for adventure seekers, visitors can explore nearby recreational areas and ski resorts, making it a fantastic retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. The village is surrounded by majestic mountains and ancient ruins, offering a perfect backdrop for exploration and relaxation. Like its neighbors, Sugatani Onsen sees peak tourism in April, August, and November, ensuring a vibrant yet peaceful atmosphere for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
Things to do near Hikone
Hikone offers a delightful mix of outdoor and romantic activities, perfect for a scenic vacation. Visitors can enjoy body treatments, a fun water park, and a fascinating planetarium observatory. Key highlights include sightseeing around the historic Hikone Castle and leisurely strolls through beautiful gardens, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the area's rich culture and natural beauty.
Experience invigorating activities at Big Breath Ibuki Sports Park, where you can engage in various sports and outdoor pursuits. For a tranquil escape, visit Inabe Agriculture park and Green Park Santo, both offering serene environments perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst nature.
Adventure
Experience the Mt. Hachiman Castle Ruins Lift for a thrilling cable car ride, offering stunning views and family-friendly fun. For hiking enthusiasts, the Mount Oikedake - Kurakake Pass Trail and Tenguiwa Loop provide breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventure, perfect for exploring the natural beauty around Hikone.
Nightlife
In Hikone, the Astronomical Observation Center offers a family-friendly atmosphere with stunning stargazing experiences. Nearby, Yoro Land presents an adventurous arcade vibe, perfect for thrill-seekers. The Hotaru Planetarium also provides a delightful entertainment experience, making it ideal for families and night owls alike.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Hikone
To save money on your trip to Hikone, visit during the off-peak months of January to February or August for lower accommodation prices. Book your hotel about a month in advance, and consider last-minute deals on Expedia for possible discounts. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Sundays tend to be the priciest. Utilize Expedia’s tools to find deals by sorting accommodations from lowest to highest price. Additionally, consider package deals that combine your hotel, flights, and activities for further savings.
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Hikone are January to February and August, 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Hikone is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Hikone is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Hikone is Sunday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to narrow down your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Hikone with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in and around Hikone
Hikone, located in Shiga Prefecture, Japan, is perfect for outdoor and romantic getaways, offering beautiful scenery and cultural experiences. Key attractions include the historic Hikone Castle and the informative Hikone Castle Museum. Visitors can explore temples and shrines, making it an ideal destination for families and culture enthusiasts alike. With diverse activities and sights, Hikone promises a memorable vacation for all travelers.
Lake Biwa: Located 12.9km from Hikone, Lake Biwa is Japan's largest freshwater lake, offering stunning scenery and romantic beach vibes. Enjoy outdoor activities like boating, cycling, and fishing while soaking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Hikone Castle: Situated in Hikone, this historic castle boasts rich cultural heritage and romantic ambiance. Explore its beautiful gardens, traditional architecture, and learn about its fascinating history, making it a perfect spot for photography and leisurely strolls.
Taga Shrine: Just 8.0km from Hikone, Taga Shrine is a serene place steeped in culture. Known for its spiritual significance, visitors can admire the beautiful architecture, participate in traditional rituals, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Best time to go to Hikone
The best time to visit Hikone can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Hikone falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Hikone falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
37.0°F (2.8°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
February
38.3°F (3.5°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly Low
March
44.8°F (7.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Average
April
53.1°F (11.7°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
May
62.4°F (16.9°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
June
69.4°F (20.8°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
July
77.0°F (25.0°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
August
79.0°F (26.1°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly Low
September
71.8°F (22.1°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
October
61.5°F (16.4°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly High
November
52.2°F (11.2°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 Hikone
When planning your trip to Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, you have a few airport options. Nagoya's Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) is 70.8km away, with nearby hotels like the 4-star Kamenoi Hotel Chitamihama and Wakamatsu Chita Hot Spring Resort , both offering shuttle services. Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) is 86.9km away, featuring luxury accommodations such as InterContinental Osaka and The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka, with transfer services available. Additionally, Nagoya Komaki Airport (NKM) is 64.4km from Hikone, with options like the 4.5-star Nagoya Tokyu Hotel, which provides airport shuttle services for guests. Each airport is well-connected to Hikone, ensuring a smooth start to your vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the top vacation rental in Hikone?
RESORT×SPA FutureRESORT: This vacation home rental near Hikone offers an outdoor pool, a furnished patio, and a barbecue grill to help you feel perfectly comfortable in your new surroundings. You and your friends and family can relax into your vacation with amenities like a selection of games. See all vacation rentals in Hikone.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Hikone, will I receive a refund?
Yes! The majority of hotel bookings are refundable provided that you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before the scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable reservation, you may still be able to cancel and be given a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Hikone.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip to Hikone?
For additional details about rescheduling or cancelling your trip to Hikone, click here.
What's the best LGBTQ-friendly hotel in Hikone?
Comfort Hotel Hikone is a top LGBTQ-friendly hotel, and features free breakfast and free WiFi.
What's the best hotel to stay near Hikone Castle?
Adjacent to Hikone Castle, Hikone Castle Resort & Spa is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveler data, and this 3.5-star hotel offers 2 restaurants and free parking. Other good options within a short distance include Comfort Hotel Hikone and Hotel Sunroute Hikone.
What about the best place to stay close to Sawayama Castle Ruins?
One of the top choices for your stay is Comfort Hotel Hikone, located a short 0.5 mi (0.9 km) from Sawayama Castle Ruins, and this 3-star hotel offers free breakfast and free parking. Hotel Sunroute Hikone and Hikone Station Hotel are other good choices nearby.
What's the best accommodation near Kansai International Airport (KIX)?
Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport is a popular 4-star hotel featuring 4 restaurants and free WiFi. It's located a short 0.1 mi (0.2 km) from Kansai Intl. Airport. Another good choice close to the airport is First Cabin Kansai-Airport, located just 0.1 mi (0.2 km) away.
What's it like to stay in Hikone?
History buffs enjoy visiting Hikone though all visitors are sure to find something to appreciate. Tourists can also enjoy the city's temples, gardens, and art. In Hikone, there are 25 hotels and other accommodations to choose from. Find out more about Hikone.
The hottest months are usually August and July with an average temp of 74°F, while the coldest months are January and February with an average of 41°F. The rainiest months in Hikone are July, September, June, and August, with each month seeing an average of 11 inches of rainfall.