Hotels in Hikone

Discover Hikone: Where Majestic Castles Meet Serene Gardens

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Biwa, Hikone in Shiga Prefecture is a treasure trove of history and culture. Home to the stunning Hikone Castle, a national treasure that rivals even Himeji Castle, this charming city boasts beautifully landscaped gardens and serene temples that reflect Japan's rich traditions. Wander through the tranquil paths of natural parks or explore the enchanting islands of Takeshima. With its captivating blend of historical significance and natural beauty, Hikone offers a unique escape for travelers eager to experience authentic Japanese heritage and breathtaking landscapes. For the best hotel rates in Hikone and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Hikone

Some of the best places to stay in Hikone are Gion, Higashiyama Ward and Sakyo Ward. Gion, Higashiyama Ward, and Sakyo Ward offer unique experiences for travelers. Gion is famous for its traditional wooden machiya houses and geisha culture, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Higashiyama Ward features stunning temples and scenic streets, perfect for exploring. Sakyo Ward combines nature with cultural sites, appealing to those seeking tranquility. Hotel accommodations in these areas range from modern hotels to traditional ryokans, catering to couples and solo travelers alike, ensuring a comfortable stay while enjoying the local charm. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Hikone:

1. GionOpens in a new window: Gion is a vibrant area known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional wooden machiya houses. It's a great place for family travelers, offering easy access to attractions like Kiyomizu Temple and Nishiki Market. The area is bustling with shops and restaurants, making it perfect for exploring Kyoto's culinary delights. For accommodations, The Ritz-Carlton, KyotoOpens in a new window offers a luxurious experience with a full-service spa and pool, ideal for relaxation. HOTEL THE MITSUI KYOTO, a Luxury Collection Hotel & SpaOpens in a new window features a natural hot spring and amenities specifically for families, ensuring a comfortable stay. Another option is Suiran, A Luxury Collection Hotel, KyotoOpens in a new window, which combines luxury with a soothing hot spring experience, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
2. Higashiyama WardOpens in a new window: Higashiyama Ward is a family-friendly district that blends adventure with culture. It is home to Kiyomizu Temple and offers access to local markets and shopping streets. This area is perfect for those wanting to experience Kyoto's traditional charm. Four Seasons Hotel KyotoOpens in a new window caters to business and family travelers, featuring accessible business facilities and child-friendly amenities. Park Hyatt KyotoOpens in a new window provides adventure sports nearby, making it an exciting choice for active families. Lastly, Dhawa Yura KyotoOpens in a new window offers luxurious amenities, including a full spa, ensuring a relaxing retreat after exploring the area.
3. Sakyo WardOpens in a new window: Sakyo Ward is a cultural hub, known for its historic sites like Kyoto University and beautiful temples. This area attracts those interested in Japan's educational and cultural legacy. Ryokan Yoshida-sansoOpens in a new window is a luxurious ryokan that offers an authentic Japanese experience, perfect for travelers seeking tranquility. ROKU KYOTO, LXR Hotels & ResortsOpens in a new window is a family-friendly option with extensive amenities for children and a full-service spa, ensuring a relaxing stay. Additionally, Kyoto Brighton HotelOpens in a new window offers a high level of luxury, making it suitable for those looking to indulge during their visit.

Things to do in Hikone for first time

A visit to Hikone offers a delightful three-day escape, where travelers can explore stunning natural landscapes of serene lakes, lush forests, and gentle hills. Engage in activities like hiking, boating, and leisurely walks while immersing yourself in the area's rich cultural heritage and picturesque gardens. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Hikone:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the beautiful Lake Biwa, where you can enjoy a peaceful morning by the water, perhaps even rent a bike to explore the scenic trails that hug the lake’s edge. After soaking in the views, head to the Keiunkan Garden, a serene spot perfect for a leisurely stroll amidst lush greenery and traditional Japanese landscapes. Conclude your day in the lively Kurokabe Square, where you can browse unique shops, savor local delicacies, and admire the stunning glassworks that the area is famous for.
• Day 2: Start with a visit to the Taga Shrine, known for its breathtaking architecture and tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect place for reflection. Next, make your way to Konomiya Shrine, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural significance of the site. Finish your day at Kora Shrine, which is beautifully set in a peaceful environment, allowing you to relax and appreciate the spirituality and beauty of these sacred spaces.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Lake Biwa Children's Land, a fantastic destination for families, offering various fun activities and play areas for kids. After some playtime, visit the Azuchi Castle Ruins, where you can explore the remnants of this historically significant site and learn about the life of the famous samurai, Oda Nobunaga. Wrap up your day at the Nobunagano Yakatac Museum, where you can dive deeper into the rich history of the region and discover fascinating exhibits about its cultural heritage.

5 tips to find a great Hikone hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Hikone is during January, February, and September, when hotel prices are at their lowest. For international travelers, booking your flight at least one month in advance can lead to more affordable fares. To truly appreciate the great value for money this destination offers, plan for a stay of at least 2-3 days to explore its key attractions, including the iconic castle, beautiful gardens, and serene natural parks.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Hikone, Hotels.com is a great place to start. Check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find discounted rates on hotels just before your travel date. To maximize your chances of snagging a bargain, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you’ll stay informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions, helping you save on your trip to Hikone.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the season. Consequently, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Hikone.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Hikone and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

Best time to go to Hikone

Hikone experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 37.0°F (2.8°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 79.0°F (26.1°C). July is usually the wettest month. March, April, and August are the peak travel months in Hikone, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light to moderate rainfall. On the other hand, January, November, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.