Biwako Hotel

Great stay with a view of the huge lake Biwa. Recommend staying here rather than central Kyoto, has enough train connectivity. Hotel runs a free shuttle to the nearest metro station. Apart from the view, the just outside is the huge lakefront area to relax. The room was large enough, and the staff helpful despite the slight language barrier. Also has an Italian restaurant.

Stayed here for the first time in a Vista floor premier luxury twin room and had an amazing experience. As vista floor customers, we could check in from 2 PM, and we were welcomed with complimentary drinks at a club lounge. The staff were superb — so warm and attentive, they truly made us feel special. There are two separate lounge areas where you can enjoy a wide variety of drinks, including sparkling wine, beer, non-alcoholic options, and spritzes. I stayed on the 4th floor, which was super convenient for accessing the public bath (daiyokujō). From there, you can enjoy beautiful views of Lake Biwa (Biwako). The bath area also has an indoor & outdoor spa and a steam sauna, such a relaxing experience. The room itself was excellent — from the stunning view and comfortable bathrobes to the slippers and thoughtful details. I especially appreciated the traditional shitsuki pottery set in the room for making green tea , a lovely, authentic touch. We celebrated my mum’s special birthday with dinner at one of the hotel’s Japanese restaurants. The teppanyaki was excellent , beautifully prepared and full of flavor although it did come at typical hotel prices. Still, it was worth it for the quality and experience. The free shuttle service was also very convenient. I’d love to go back again. Thank you for the wonderful facilities and exceptional service!

Went during summer. The air conditioning in the room was so weak. Turned it to lowest possible (20 deg c) and highest fan speed and it was still very hot. Room size is very big, especially for Japanese hotel standard. Chose a lake view and it was nice, was hoping for a higher floor but got L6 (of 12). Can briefly see the fireworks from room balcony. The hotel shuttle bus is very convenient. The timetable can be found on their website. Nothing much in the area, can walk 10 minutes to convenience store and Sukiya. There’s an arcade next door with 3 food places.