Top reasons to visit Hikone
- Historic Hikone Castle: A national treasure, this iconic castle offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal past, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
- Scenic Lake Biwa: The largest lake in Japan, perfect for outdoor activities and picturesque views, ideal for nature lovers.
- Relaxing Boat Rides: Enjoy serene boat rides on the lake, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding landscapes.
- Rich Cultural Experiences: Explore local temples and shrines, immersing yourself in the region's heritage and traditions.
- Charming Accommodation Options: Choose from traditional ryokans to modern hotels, catering to various preferences for a memorable stay.
Find great hotels in and around Hikone
Discover a range of delightful accommodation options in Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, from traditional ryokans to modern hotels. Whether you're seeking a hot spring retreat, a business-friendly stay, or an LGBTQIA-friendly environment, Hikone caters to all. Explore nearby attractions like Hikone Castle and Rakurakuen Palace, while enjoying convenient access to Serikawa Station. Read reviews to find the perfect hotel that suits your needs for an unforgettable Japanese experience.
- Hotel Boston Plaza Kusatsu: Nestled 35km from Hikone, Hotel Boston Plaza Kusatsu offers a delightful blend of comfort and modern amenities. This 3.5-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, reflecting its commitment to quality service. Guests can savour a variety of dining options including an unspecified restaurant and a coffee shop, as well as enjoy entertainment features like LCD TVs and digital channels. With its proximity to the city centre and shopping district, it serves as a convenient base for exploring the vibrant local culture.
- Toyoko Inn Maibara Station Shinkansen Nishi: Situated a mere 10km from Hikone, Toyoko Inn Maibara Station Shinkansen Nishi is a 3-star haven with a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10. This hotel caters to those seeking simplicity and convenience, offering complimentary Japanese breakfast options. With easy access to Maibara Station, guests can explore surrounding areas effortlessly. The property also features essential entertainment amenities, including television, ensuring a comfortable stay for travellers looking for a budget-friendly option.
- Toyoko Inn Hikone Station Higashi: Located within Hikone, Toyoko Inn Hikone Station Higashi is a budget-friendly accommodation with a commendable guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. This hotel provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, featuring complimentary daily breakfast and a buffet option. Guests can enjoy entertainment such as karaoke and flat-screen televisions in their rooms. With its close proximity to the historical district and city centre, this hotel is ideal for those wanting to immerse themselves in the rich history of Hikone.
Where to stay in and around Hikone
Hikone, a charming city in Shiga Prefecture, offers a delightful blend of historical allure and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the famous Hikone Castle, a national treasure, and stroll around its picturesque gardens. The surrounding area boasts serene landscapes perfect for romantic getaways or adventurous outings. Don't miss the chance to discover nearby attractions like the tranquil Lake Biwa, where you can engage in various outdoor activities while immersing yourself in the rich culture and history of the region.
- Onoe Onsen: Nestled in the scenic area of Hikone, Onoe Onsen is a charming village renowned for its serene hot springs. This destination offers a tranquil escape, especially popular for romantic getaways and cultural experiences. Visitors can indulge in rejuvenating body treatments, explore quaint shops, and savour local delicacies. The village is ideally situated near historic attractions, including a majestic castle and a picturesque lake, making it an excellent base for exploring the rich heritage of the region. Peak visiting months, such as April, August, and November, bring a vibrant atmosphere, while the quieter winter months provide a peaceful retreat.
- Toyosato: Located a mere 6km from Hikone, Toyosato is a lively city that combines culture with outdoor adventure. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, visitors flock here during the spring and autumn months to enjoy various outdoor activities and the welcoming resort vibe. The city boasts several historic buildings and temples that reflect the cultural tapestry of the area. Whether you're interested in motor racing or simply wish to explore the scenic surroundings, Toyosato offers diverse experiences that cater to all interests, making it a delightful addition to your itinerary.
- Sugatani Onsen: Another gem in the Hikone vicinity, Sugatani Onsen is a quaint village famed for its invigorating hot springs and outdoor adventures. This destination is especially appealing to thrill-seekers, offering skiing opportunities in the winter months and a range of outdoor activities year-round. The nearby ski resort and shopping centre enhance the visitor experience, while the tranquil lake and soothing onsens provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation. Peak seasons in April, August, and November invite a lively crowd, while the off-peak months are ideal for those seeking a more tranquil experience.
Things to do near Hikone
Shopping
In Hikone, visit the Hikone Castle Shopping Street for local crafts and souvenirs, alongside traditional snacks. If you're up for a drive, explore the Aeon Mall in nearby Otsu, located approximately 24km away, featuring a variety of shops and dining options for a more extensive shopping experience.
Recreation
In Hikone, the Biwako Grand Hotel offers serene hot springs with picturesque lake views, providing a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation. Visit the Hikone Castle Garden for a leisurely stroll amidst beautiful landscapes, where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the historic charm of the area.
Adventure
Take a thrilling ride on the Mt. Hachiman Castle Ruins Lift, located 18km from Hikone, where you can enjoy breathtaking views while ascending. For another exciting experience, the Gozaisho Cable Car, situated 34km away, offers stunning vistas and an exhilarating journey through the mountains.
Nightlife
In Hikone, the lively atmosphere can be found at local izakayas, where you can savour delicious Japanese cuisine and drinks. For a more relaxed evening, visit a quaint tea house or enjoy a stroll along Lake Biwa, soaking in the tranquil views and charming surroundings.
*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, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January to February and August when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel around a month in advance for the best rates, particularly on Tuesdays, which tend to be the cheapest days. Use Expedia’s tools to filter for budget-friendly options and consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Exploring on foot is a great way to enjoy the area without spending on public transport.
- 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: Book your hotel in Hikone about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable rates and offers, sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Hikone with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Hikone
Hikone, located in Shiga Prefecture, is perfect for outdoor and romantic getaways, offering stunning scenery and rich cultural experiences. Key attractions include the historic Hikone Castle, its museum, and various temples and shrines nearby. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities while exploring the area's unique charm, particularly around the old Hikone Castle, which serves as a central point for exploration in this captivating town.
- Azuchi Castle Ruins: Located 13km from Hikone, the Azuchi Castle Ruins offer a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. Visitors can explore the remnants of this once-magnificent castle, surrounded by scenic landscapes that evoke a sense of historical grandeur and cultural significance.
- Soanji Temple: Nestled within Hikone, Soanji Temple is a serene retreat known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful gardens. The temple's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, making it a perfect spot for quiet reflection and appreciation of local culture.
- Goma no Sato: Situated 24km from Hikone, Goma no Sato is a unique museum dedicated to the art of goma (sesame). Here, visitors can learn about traditional sesame production and enjoy interactive exhibits that celebrate the region's culinary heritage.
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.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Hikone
Reaching Hikone from Indonesia is convenient via several major airports. Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) is approximately 87km away, with luxurious hotels like Swissotel Nankai Osaka and The Ritz-Carlton, both about 7 to 14km from the airport, offering various transport services. Kobe Airport (UKB), located 113km from Hikone, features the ANA Crowne Plaza Kobe and Kobe Portopia Hotel, providing scheduled airport shuttles. Finally, Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX) lies 127km away, with nearby options like Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, just 161m from the terminal, ensuring easy access for travellers to Hikone.