Search Hotels in Shiga Prefecture

Top reasons to visit Shiga Prefecture

• Scenic Lake Biwa: Enjoy the stunning views and recreational activities at Japan's largest lake, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Historic Hikone Castle: Visit this famous castle and its beautiful gardens for a glimpse into Japan's rich history.
• Cultural Temples and Shrines: Explore serene temples and shrines that reflect Shiga's deep cultural heritage.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Experience fun-filled days at amusement parks and local shops, catering to all ages.
• Relaxing Accommodations: Choose from modern hotels and traditional ryokans, including hot spring-themed facilities for ultimate relaxation.

Find great hotels in Shiga Prefecture

Explore a range of hotel accommodations in Shiga Prefecture, Japan, where you'll find both modern hotels and traditional ryokans. Catering to various travelers, Shiga boasts hot spring-themed facilities, perfect for relaxation, as well as welcoming environments for business travelers and the LGBTQIA community. Whether you're seeking the best hotels or top-rated options, Shiga offers a diverse selection to enhance your vacation experience.

• Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel: Embrace a unique golf-themed experience at the Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel, a 3.5-star retreat nestled by the scenic Lake Biwa. This hotel caters specifically to golf enthusiasts and business travelers, offering easy access to an on-site golf course. With well-appointed rooms that provide stunning lake views, guests can enjoy a relaxing stay while indulging in their passion for golf. The hotel's amenities ensure a perfect blend of leisure and business, making it an ideal choice for those looking to unwind or conduct meetings in a tranquil setting.
• Hotel Boston Plaza Kusatsu: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Hotel Boston Plaza Kusatsu, a 3.5-star hotel that combines comfort with convenience. Guests can indulge in various dining options, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner served in an inviting restaurant setting. The hotel features modern entertainment amenities like LCD and digital TVs, ensuring a relaxing evening after a day of exploring. Located near a bustling shopping district and the city center, this hotel is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture and enjoy the energy of Kusatsu.
• Apa Hotel Biwako Seta Ekimae: The Apa Hotel Biwako Seta Ekimae, rated at 3 stars, offers a cozy and practical stay in Shiga Prefecture. With dining options including buffet breakfasts and daily meals, guests can start their day on a satisfying note. The hotel provides essential entertainment features such as digital TVs, ensuring guests have access to their favorite shows. Its convenient location near transportation hubs makes it an excellent base for exploring the region, allowing you to easily discover the beauty of Lake Biwa and its surroundings.

Where to stay in Shiga Prefecture

Shiga Prefecture offers a captivating blend of outdoor adventures and rich cultural experiences. Explore the serene shores of Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake, and visit the historic city of Otsu to uncover its vibrant local shops and traditional cuisine. Don’t miss the charming town of Hikone, home to a famous castle and beautiful gardens. With friendly locals and family-friendly attractions, Shiga is the perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and exploration.

• Otsu: Nestled along the shores of beautiful Lake Biwa, Otsu is a serene city that offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities and romantic scenery. With visitor numbers peaking in March to April and July, this destination is perfect for those looking to enjoy nature's beauty. Explore the local landmarks such as tranquil lakes and rejuvenating onsens, or indulge in body treatments at local spas. The vibrant shopping areas and unique planetarium observatory add to the charm, making Otsu an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway.
• Nagahama: Known for its picturesque landscapes and rich history, Nagahama is a captivating city situated near the northern shores of Lake Biwa. The peak travel times in April and July to August attract visitors seeking outdoor adventures and romantic experiences. Engage in thrilling activities at nearby ski resorts or unwind with body treatments after a day of exploration. The city's proximity to scenic lakes and soothing onsens ensures a rejuvenating experience, making Nagahama a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation for travelers.
• Kusatsu: Famous for its stunning natural beauty and family-friendly atmosphere, Kusatsu is a charming city that showcases the best of Shiga Prefecture. With peak visitor times in February, April, and September, this destination is ideal for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities and romantic escapes. Discover the wonders of the local planetarium observatory, explore shopping areas, or unwind in the soothing waters of nearby onsens and hotsprings. Kusatsu offers a unique blend of family fun, relaxation, and scenic adventures for a memorable vacation.

Things to do in Shiga Prefecture

Shiga Prefecture offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities like hiking scenic trails, exploring ski resorts, and indulging in rejuvenating body treatments. The area also features vibrant shopping options and an amusement park for family fun. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day trip or an exciting outdoor excursion, Shiga has something for everyone to enjoy.

Shopping

In Shiga Prefecture, enjoy shopping at Mitsui Outlet Park for a variety of brands and entertainment. Visit Roadside Station Biwako Ohashi Kome Plaza for local specialties. For a family-friendly vibe, Pieri Moriyama Mall offers diverse shopping options and fun activities for all ages.

Recreation

At Kibogaoka Culture Park, immerse yourself in nature with tranquil walking trails and serene gardens designed for relaxation. G Park Shigaraki Golf Club offers a refreshing outdoor experience, perfect for golf enthusiasts. Big Breath Ibuki Sports Park is great for sports lovers, featuring various facilities for active recreation.

Adventure

Experience thrilling winter sports at Biwako Valley Ski Resort, where you can ski down picturesque slopes amidst a vibrant atmosphere. For a unique adventure, take the Mt. Hachiman Castle Ruins Lift, enjoying panoramic views and outdoor fun perfect for families and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Nightlife

In Shiga Prefecture, Biwako Hall captivates with its romantic theater performances, perfect for culture enthusiasts. The Astronomical Observation Center and Hotaru Planetarium offer fun family-friendly entertainment, making them ideal spots for stargazing and enjoying the wonders of the universe together.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shiga Prefecture

To save money during your visit to Shiga Prefecture, consider traveling during the cheaper months of June to July and September. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, particularly on Wednesdays, which are the least expensive days. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals and sort hotel prices from lowest to highest. Look for Eco-certified hotels for sustainable options, and consider package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. Free attractions and an efficient public transport system will also help you stick to your budget.

• 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. 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 Shiga Prefecture is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Shiga Prefecture is Sunday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you specify your budget, desired location, and other preferences. You can sort the results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type—if you check the Eco-certified option, you’ll discover a selection of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Shiga Prefecture with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Shiga Prefecture

Shiga Prefecture offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and rich cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for travelers. Popular attractions include beautiful temples, shrines, and museums, catering to those seeking family-friendly activities and scenic views. Whether you're exploring historical sites or enjoying nature, Shiga provides a memorable vacation for every type of traveler.

• Lake Biwa: Experience the beauty of Japan's largest lake, known for its romantic sunsets and stunning scenery. Enjoy outdoor activities like boating, cycling, and picnicking along the serene beaches, providing a perfect escape into nature.
• Mount Hiei: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of this sacred mountain, home to ancient temples and breathtaking views. Explore the tranquil surroundings and appreciate the unique blend of spirituality and art that defines this iconic landmark.
• Hikone Castle: Discover the historical charm of this beautifully preserved castle, surrounded by picturesque gardens. With its romantic ambiance and cultural significance, Hikone Castle offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal past and stunning architectural beauty.

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

Traveling to Shiga Prefecture is convenient via several major airports. Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX) is 85.3km away, with nearby hotels like Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, just 161m away, and Star Gate Hotel Kansai Airport, 6.4km away, both offering easy access. Nagoya Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) is 88.5km from Shiga, featuring hotels such as Centrair Hotel, located 161m away, and Kamenoi Hotel Chitamihama, 9.7km away. Lastly, Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) is 45.1km from Shiga and has luxury options like InterContinental Osaka, 11.3km away, providing convenient transportation services to the airport.