Welcome to our review of this lavish hot spring getaway near Lake Biwako in Japan.
Picture yourself soaking in steamy outdoor baths, surrounded by nature’s beauty. Inside, you’ll find cozy rooms with traditional touches like tatami mats and private soaking tubs. The food here is a real treat, with local ingredients served up in fancy multi-course meals.
While most guests rave about their stay, it’s worth noting that the price tag might make some travelers’ eyes water. Also, if you’re looking for a modern, Western-style hotel experience, this isn’t it – think sliding paper doors and sleeping on futons instead.
This place is perfect for those who want to enjoy Japanese culture and don’t mind splurging for a taste of luxury. It’s ideal for couples seeking a romantic retreat or anyone hoping to unwind in a peaceful, natural setting.
If you’re fascinated by traditional Japanese accommodations and cuisine, and you’re after a top-notch onsen experience, you’ll feel right at home here.
Key Points
- Biwako Hanakaido is a traditional Japanese lodging located near Lake Biwako in Ogoto, Shiga, Japan, offering a serene and relaxing experience.
- The property features various accommodation options, including rooms with private onsen baths, catering to different guest needs and preferences.
- Guests can enjoy a range of dining experiences, including a traditional multi-course kaiseki dinner highlighting seasonal and local ingredients.
- The property has received high ratings from guests, particularly for its excellent service, clean facilities, and the overall relaxing onsen experience.
- Biwako Hanakaido offers a free shuttle service to and from the nearby JR Ogoto-Onsen Station, providing convenient access to the property.
General Information
Biwako Hanakaido is a highly-rated ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) located in Ogoto, Shiga, Japan.
With a rating of 9.1 based on 292 reviews, it offers a range of amenities, including indoor and outdoor hot-spring baths, dining options, rooms with balconies and Lake Biwako views, a garden, a sauna, free WiFi, and a free shuttle to/from the nearby JR Ogoto-Onsen Station.
The ryokan’s location in the scenic Shiga region adds to its appeal, making it a popular destination for those seeking a traditional Japanese lodging experience with stunning natural surroundings.
Accommodation Options
The ryokan offers a range of accommodation options to suit different guest preferences.
Visitors can choose from twin rooms with three twin beds, standard Japanese-style rooms with three futon beds, or superior Japanese-style rooms with four futon beds.
For a more luxurious stay, there are rooms with tatami areas and open-air baths, twin rooms with private open-air hot spring baths, junior suites with open-air hot spring baths, and suites with open-air hot spring baths.
All rooms feature soundproofing, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, fridges, and attached bathrooms, with some offering additional private onsen facilities.
Room Amenities
All rooms at Biwako Hanakaido come equipped with a host of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.
Each room features soundproof walls, providing a peaceful retreat. Air conditioning allows guests to control the temperature to their preference. Flat-screen TVs and refrigerators are available for entertainment and convenience.
The attached bathrooms offer a private and en-suite experience. Plus, some rooms boast the luxury of a private open-air hot spring bath, allowing guests to soak in the natural thermal waters.
These thoughtful in-room features, combined with the stunning views of Lake Biwako, create a truly serene and rejuvenating environment for guests.
Dining Experiences
Guests staying at Biwako Hanakaido can indulge in exceptional dining experiences that showcase the best of Kyoto cuisine and local specialties.
The property’s Kaiseki traditional multi-course dinner features:
- Meticulously prepared dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients
- Artistic presentation that delights the senses
- A focus on umami flavors and traditional cooking techniques
- Complementary sake and wine pairings to enhance the culinary journey
Along With the renowned Kaiseki dinner, the ryokan offers convenient breakfast options and on-site dining venues, including a cafe and a soba noodle restaurant, providing guests with a diverse range of culinary choices during their stay.
Guest Ratings and Reviews
Biwako Hanakaido has earned an impressive 9.1 rating based on 292 guest reviews, reflecting the exceptional experiences visitors have had at the property.
The staff received a remarkable 9.6 rating, and the facilities, cleanliness, and comfort all scored highly at 9.2, 9.4, and 9.3, respectively.
Guests consistently praised the exceptional service, beautiful rooms, stunning views, and relaxing onsen experiences.
While the value for money and location ratings were slightly lower at 8.6 and 8.5, the overall feedback indicates Biwako Hanakaido provides an exceptional traditional Japanese inn experience.
Check-in and Check-out
Guests at Biwako Hanakaido can check in from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, with check-out available from 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM.
The hotel’s policies on check-in and check-out are designed to provide a smooth and efficient experience for visitors. Some key points include:
- Flexible check-in hours, allowing guests to arrive at their convenience.
- Early check-out option for those with morning departures.
- Policies may vary depending on the accommodation type booked.
- Guests should inform the property of any special requests or needs related to their arrival and departure.
Policies and Restrictions
Beyond the exceptional accommodations and dining experiences, Biwako Hanakaido enforces several policies and restrictions to ensure the comfort and safety of all guests.
Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and check-out is from 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by accommodation type.
Children of all ages are welcome, but charges apply for those 6 and above. Pets aren’t allowed, and smoking is prohibited on the property.
Quiet hours are observed from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM. Guests are advised to inform the property of any dietary needs, transportation requirements, and the gender of guests for amenities.
Requests and Special Needs
Those planning a stay at Biwako Hanakaido are encouraged to inform the property of any special requests or needs. This allows the staff to better accommodate guests and ensure a seamless experience.
Some key considerations include:
- Dietary restrictions or preferences to cater meals
- Transportation needs, such as arranging shuttle service
- Gender-specific amenities or room assignments
- Any accessibility requirements for the onsen baths or other facilities
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ryokan Open Year-Round?
Yes, the ryokan is open year-round, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy its amenities and traditional Japanese hospitality throughout the year, regardless of the season.
Can Guests Make Reservations for Specific Room Types?
Yes, guests can make reservations for specific room types at this ryokan. The property offers a variety of accommodations, including twin rooms, traditional Japanese-style rooms, and rooms with private open-air hot spring baths.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available?
The hotel offers various packages and discounts for guests, including seasonal deals, multi-night stays, and early booking incentives. Guests should inquire about current offers when making their reservation to get the best value for their stay.
How Far Is the Ryokan From the Nearest Airport?
The ryokan is located about 50 km from Kansai International Airport, which is the nearest major airport. It takes around 80 minutes to reach the ryokan by car or shuttle service from the airport.
Are There Any Activities or Events Organized by the Ryokan?
The ryokan organizes various activities for guests, including guided tours of the nearby lake, seasonal flower viewing events, and cultural experiences like traditional tea ceremonies. Guests can also explore the on-site Japanese garden and relax in the indoor and outdoor hot spring baths.
The Sum Up
Nestled on the tranquil shores of Japan’s largest freshwater lake, this ryokan offers a deep dive into traditional Japanese culture. We were immediately struck by the range of accommodations, from classic tatami rooms to luxurious suites boasting private onsen baths.
The real showstopper, though, was the Kyoto-style kaiseki dinner. Each meticulously prepared dish was a work of art, reflecting the seasons and local ingredients. It’s no wonder this place has garnered such high praise from travelers.
For those seeking a serene escape and a taste of authentic Japan, this lakeside haven is hard to beat. Our team found it to be a perfect blend of relaxation and culture.
Ready to experience it yourself? Hit the button below to book through Booking.com. It’s our go-to for free reservations and competitive rates. Happy travels!