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Top reasons to visit Hikone

• Historic Hikone Castle: A stunning landmark offering insight into Japan's feudal past, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
• Biwafront Hikone: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views along this scenic waterfront, perfect for leisurely strolls.
• Relaxing Onsen Experiences: Indulge in rejuvenating hot springs nearby, providing a serene retreat after a day of exploration.
• Cultural Exploration: Visit the Hikone Castle Museum and various temples to immerse yourself in local heritage.
• Diverse Accommodation: From traditional ryokans to modern hotels, find the perfect lodging to enhance your stay.

Find great hotels in and around Hikone

Discover an array of accommodation options in Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, where traditional ryokans meet modern hotels. Whether you seek a hot spring-themed experience or a welcoming environment for LGBTQIA travellers, Hikone offers comfort and convenience for both business and leisure guests. Explore popular choices like Comfort Hotel Hikone and find the ideal lodging to enhance your holiday experience in this charming Japanese city.

• Hotel Boston Plaza Kusatsu: Located 35km from Hikone, Hotel Boston Plaza Kusatsu boasts a commendable guest rating of 8.8. This hotel features a sophisticated environment with multiple dining options, including a bar and restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guests can unwind with entertainment choices such as pay movies and a selection of digital and LCD televisions in their rooms. The proximity to a vibrant city centre and shopping district provides ample opportunities for exploration and leisure, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both comfort and convenient access to local attractions.
• Toyoko Inn Maibara Station Shinkansen Nishi: Just 10km from Hikone, the Toyoko Inn Maibara Station Shinkansen Nishi offers a welcoming atmosphere with a guest rating of 8.2. This establishment prioritises convenience, providing a complimentary breakfast daily, including traditional Japanese options. The rooms are equipped with televisions for entertainment, allowing guests to relax after a day of sightseeing. Its close proximity to Maibara Station makes it a practical choice for travellers wishing to explore the surrounding areas while enjoying a comfortable stay.
• Toyoko Inn Hikone Station Higashi: Situated conveniently in Hikone, the Toyoko Inn Hikone Station Higashi holds a guest rating of 8.4. This hotel offers a complimentary buffet breakfast, ensuring a fulfilling start to your day. Rooms are fitted with flatscreen televisions, and additional entertainment options include karaoke and pay movies. The location is particularly appealing, with easy access to the city centre and nearby historical districts, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local heritage while enjoying the hotel’s modern amenities.

Where to stay in and around Hikone

Hikone offers a delightful blend of historical charm and natural beauty, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and romantics alike. Stroll through the scenic Biwafront Hikone for breathtaking panoramic views, or explore the city's rich cultural heritage within walking distance. Don’t miss the invigorating hot springs nearby, providing a serene retreat after a day of adventure. Hikone is an ideal base for discovering the captivating atmosphere of the surrounding regions.

• Onoe Onsen: Nestled in the scenic area of Hikone, Onoe Onsen is a tranquil village known for its soothing hot springs. Visitors can immerse themselves in a culture-themed experience, offering a romantic and outdoor atmosphere. The village is home to several local shops and body treatment venues, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Key attractions nearby include historic sites, a picturesque castle, and a serene lake, making it an excellent spot for both leisure and cultural immersion. The peak travel months are April, August, and November, offering a lively yet intimate atmosphere for visitors.
• Toyosato: Located a mere 6km from Hikone, Toyosato is a vibrant city that invites tourists with its rich cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Ideal for families, it boasts a variety of attractions including temples, historic buildings, and shrines, each narrating the area’s storied past. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy various resorts and motor racing activities, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The city experiences peak visitor numbers from March to April and November, making it a great time to explore its lively streets and beautiful surroundings.
• Sugatani Onsen: Sugatani Onsen is another charming village in Hikone, renowned for its rejuvenating hot springs and outdoor adventure opportunities. This destination is perfect for thrill-seekers, especially during the ski season, as it features well-maintained ski resorts and recreational areas. Visitors can also enjoy the natural beauty of nearby lakes and onsens, making it a delightful retreat for nature lovers. Sugatani Onsen sees a surge in travellers during April, August, and November, providing a picturesque backdrop for an unforgettable holiday.

Things to do near Hikone

Hikone, nestled in Shiga Prefecture, is an idyllic destination for outdoor and romantic getaways, boasting stunning scenery. Visitors can indulge in body treatments, explore a planetarium observatory, or enjoy a ski resort experience. Highlights include day trips, friendly activities, and sightseeing journeys, complemented by relaxing onsen experiences, making Hikone a perfect blend of culture and nature for an unforgettable holiday.

Shopping

Hikone offers charming local shops where you can find traditional crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Aeon Mall Shiga for a wider selection of retail stores and dining options, or visit the nearby Omi Hachiman for its unique boutiques and historical atmosphere.

Recreation

The Hikone Onsen is a tranquil retreat offering rejuvenating hot spring baths surrounded by nature. Visitors can indulge in soothing therapies and enjoy the calming atmosphere. Additionally, the nearby Lake Biwa presents opportunities for leisurely strolls, cycling, and scenic boat rides to enhance your wellness experience.

Adventure

At the Mt. Hachiman Castle Ruins Lift, located 18km from Hikone, you can enjoy breathtaking views as you ascend to ancient castle ruins surrounded by lush nature. The Gozaisho Cable Car, situated 34km away, offers a thrilling ride with scenic vistas, perfect for families seeking adventure.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife in Hikone with a visit to the lively bars along the waterfront. Enjoy local sake at a traditional izakaya or relax at a quaint café. For a unique experience, join a night stroll along Lake Biwa, soaking in the serene atmosphere under the stars.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Hikone

• 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: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your selection by hotel type; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you'll be presented with sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodation options available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially 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 a rich cultural experience. Key attractions include the historic Hikone Castle and the Hikone Castle Museum, both of which provide insight into the region's heritage. With a variety of temples and shrines nearby, visitors can enjoy a blend of nature and family-friendly activities while exploring the vibrant local culture.

• Hikone Castle: This historic castle, renowned for its well-preserved structure, offers a glimpse into Japan's feudal past. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, it exudes a romantic atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls and photography.
• Lake Biwa: Located 13km from Hikone, Lake Biwa is the largest freshwater lake in Japan, celebrated for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy beachside relaxation, picturesque views, and romantic sunsets over the tranquil waters.
• Shirahige Shrine: Situated 18km from Hikone, this serene shrine is dedicated to the deity of longevity and prosperity. Its striking torii gate standing in the lake adds to its cultural significance, providing a peaceful environment for reflection and appreciation of traditional Japanese architecture.

Best time to go to Hikone

The best time to visit Hikone is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	37.0°F (2.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	38.3°F (3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	62.4°F (16.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	77.0°F (25.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	79.0°F (26.1°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
September	71.8°F (22.1°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	61.5°F (16.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	52.2°F (11.2°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 Hikone

Reaching Hikone from Australia is convenient via three major airports. Osaka's Kansai International Airport (KIX) is 127km away, with nearby hotels like Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, only 161m from the terminal, providing easy access. Nagoya's Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) is 71km away, featuring options like the Centrair Hotel just 161m from the airport. Lastly, Osaka Itami Airport (ITM) is located 87km from Hikone, with suitable accommodations such as The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka, 11km away. Each airport offers various transport services to facilitate your journey to Hikone.