As Japan’s largest and one of the world’s most ancient lakes, Lake Biwa is a popular destination for tourists who want to discover its history and rich biodiversity. Situated in Shiga Prefecture, Lake Biwa is a relaxing spot where you can find peace and comfort when taking a break from busy days.

Additionally, did you know that several sightseeing spots surround the area? Spend time visiting Shirahige Shrine, Hikone Castle, and Biwako Valley. And while you’re at it, why not stay at one of the traditional ryokans located around Lake Biwa? Continue reading this guide to know more!

1. Biwako Hanakaido

Situated near the shuttle bus station is Biwako Hanakaido, a traditional ryokan with retro-modern decor. It makes you feel like you’re entering the Taisho era.

This ryokan has 43 guest rooms, including regular and premium ones. If you’re willing to spend more, we recommend booking the special room with an open-air onsen. It is more than 90 square meters, and the private onsen offers views of Lake Biwa.

Biwako Hanakaido is also famous for its delicious cuisine, which is served in the dining room. Popular dishes include freshwater clams and sweetfish! For a complete experience, pay an extra fee and taste the full kaiseki meal for breakfast.

Book It Here: Biwako Hanakaido

2. Ryokan Beniayu

Ryokan Beniayu is at Lake Biwa’s northern end. You can get to this accommodation by car, which is about 10 minutes from Takatsuki Station. Once you enter the lobby, the view of the Chikubushima greets you, featuring different expressions on various parts of the day.

Ryokan Beniayu has 15 rooms with open-air onsens, from which you can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Biwa. The rooms are smaller than average but can accommodate 2 to 5 guests.

Apart from the beautiful rooms, Ryokan Beniayu stands out for its unique dinner experience. The local chefs carefully selected the finest ingredients, including Omi beef, Kyoto vegetables, and Omi vegetables. If you’re staying here, we also suggest trying out the wagyu beef and the mouthwatering shabu-shabu.

Book It Here: Ryokan Beniayu

3. Biwafront Hikone

One of the most luxurious and modern ryokans right at the shore of Lake Biwa is Biwafront Hikone, located at the eastern end. This beautiful ryokan features divine views of Lake Biwa and the Hira Mountains, allowing guests to experience nature’s bright blue colors.

Biwafront Hikone isn’t your typical ryokan, and your first stop upon after checking in shouldn’t be your room. Instead, head to the 10th floor and witness the breathtaking Lake Lounge Ohmi. After which, head to the top-floor lounge for the best views of Lake Biwa. Red automatic doors will greet you, much like you’re entering a Japanese castle.

The rooms are modern and stylish, with luxurious bedding to ensure a comfortable sleep. Each room has ceiling-to-floor windows right in front of the beds. Other amenities include an observation lounge with a library, a boutique store, complimentary drinks, and a private hot spring bath.

Book It Here: Biwafront Hikone

4. Tobaya Ryokan

Tobaya Ryokan might be the oldest traditional ryokan on this list. It was constructed in 1880 and has been the only operating ryokan since World War II. Experience everything traditional yet historical with this Japanese accommodation.

As it’s very traditional, the rooms look like the rooms found in old Japanese homes. Tatami mats cover the floors, and the mattresses and pillows are flat. Basically, you will be sleeping on the tatami-coated floors. Windows also have shoji paper screens. There are also no private bathrooms. What’s excellent with this ryokan is the beautiful garden outside where guests can chill and interact.

Book It Here: Tobaya Ryokan

5. Ogoto Onsen Yunoyado Komolebi

If you’re feeling more luxurious, why not spend a few more bucks booking a three-star accommodation? Ogoto Onsen Yunoyado Komolebi is a beautiful traditional ryokan equipped with an indoor hot spring bath. There are even yukuta robes you can rent to experience living like a true Japanese local.

Besides the tatami mats and Japanese futon bedding, everything looks modern with Ogoto Onsen Yunoyado Komolebi. You can play table tennis and pool and even try out cycling. Situated in a quiet environment, you can definitely relax and experience traditional Japanese hospitality with the friendly staff and the warm atmosphere.

For the meals, this ryokan also offers full kaiseki meals for breakfast and dinner. It also holds a particular tea time every afternoon, during which guests can bond.

Book It Here: Ogoto Onsen Yunoyado Komolebi

6. Kamenoi Hotel Hikone

Standing on the shore of Lake Biwa, Kamenoi Hotel Hikone is a ryokan-turned-hotel that presents beautiful views of Mt. Ibuki, Chikubu Island, and Takeijima Island. This modern accommodation has two types of rooms: Japanese-Western guestrooms and newly constructed suites with more modern facilities.

Guests are after the breathtaking lake views from all rooms. Additionally, authentic Japanese dishes from the ryokan’s on-site restaurant, Biwa Restaurant, are to die for! Choose from different kaiseki meals centered around the Omi beef, snow crab, and Omi beef shabu-shabu.

Finally, on the top floor, don’t forget to dip in Kamenoi Hotel Hikone’s own hot springs. Glass windows surround a large public bath, so you can also catch panoramic views of Lake Biwa. On the other hand, you may also book the private open-air or indoor baths.

Book It Here: Kamenoi Hotel Hikone

7. Honmachi Juku

Just 5 minutes away from Lake Biwa is Honmachi Juku, a traditional ryokan that recently underwent modern renovations. No private bathrooms are available, but the fast internet connection is definitely commendable.

Honmachi Juku has tatami mats lining the entire property. We also recommend trying the ryokan’s breakfast options. They’re not buffet-style, but we love how fresh the vegetables served were!

Book It Here: Honmachi Juku

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Lake Biwa’s enormous size makes it one of the easily seen bodies of water in Japan. Don’t dare miss out on this beautiful view when you stay at any of the ryokans we mentioned above!

If you know other traditional Japanese inns in Lake Biwa, we’d love to hear them out! Let us know in the comments below, and share your experiences too!

After touring Lake Biwa, why not take a side trip to Mt. Fuji? Check out our list of the most beautiful ryokans in Hakone with Mt Fuji views in this guide.