Welcome to our review of this lakeside gem in Hikone! This well-loved hotel offers a mix of Japanese and Western-style rooms, perfect for soaking up local culture or sticking with familiar comforts.
You’ll find free parking, Wi-Fi, and tasty Japanese eats right on-site. Plus, the views of Lake Biwa are a real treat!
Now, let’s talk straight: Some guests have mentioned that English can be a bit tricky here, so brush up on your Japanese or bring a translation app.
Also, if you’re used to plush, modern digs, the traditional rooms might feel a bit basic.
But don’t let that stop you! This place is a great fit for castle buffs (Hikone Castle is nearby), train travelers (it’s close to Maibara Station), and anyone looking to explore Shiga Prefecture without breaking the bank.
If you’re after an authentic Japanese experience with a dash of practicality, you’ve found your spot!
Key Points
- KAMENOI HOTEL Hikone is a 7.9/10 rated hotel located near Hikone Castle, Maibara Station, and Taga-taisha Shrine in Shiga Prefecture.
- The hotel offers various room types, including Japanese-style, standard twin, and family rooms, catering to diverse guest preferences.
- On-site dining includes two restaurants serving traditional Japanese cuisine for breakfast and dinner, with mixed guest feedback on food quality.
- Hotel facilities include free parking, free WiFi, public bath, hot spring bath, and open-air bath, along with accessibility features.
- The hotel’s well-connected location and free shuttle service provide convenient access to nearby attractions and transportation hubs.
Hotel Overview
The KAMENOI HOTEL Hikone is a well-regarded accommodation option located in the city of Hikone, Shiga Prefecture.
Rated 7.9 out of 10 by guests, the hotel has 150 reviews and offers an array of facilities, including free parking, free WiFi, non-smoking rooms, family rooms, and accessibility features.
Guests can enjoy two on-site restaurants serving Japanese cuisine, as well as amenities like a public bath, hot spring bath, and open-air bath.
The hotel’s location puts it in close proximity to popular attractions like Hikone Castle, Maibara Station, and Taga-taisha Shrine, making it a convenient choice for travelers exploring the region.
Accommodation Details
Turning to the hotel’s accommodation details, the KAMENOI HOTEL Hikone offers a range of room types to suit various travelers’ needs. Guests can choose from standard twin rooms, Japanese-style rooms with 8, 10, or 12 tatami mats (accommodating up to 4-6 adults), Japanese-Western rooms, family rooms, deluxe rooms with private view baths, and accessible rooms. All accommodations feature amenities like flat-screen TVs, fridges, and kettles, with some rooms offering picturesque views of Lake Biwa. Whether seeking traditional Japanese or more Western-style accommodations, the hotel caters to a diverse array of preferences and group sizes.
| Room Type | Bedding | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Twin | 2 single beds, 1 sofa bed | – |
| Japanese-style | 8, 10, or 12 tatami mats | Up to 4-6 adults |
| Japanese-Western | 2 single beds, 3 futon beds | – |
Dining at the Hotel
Dining at the KAMENOI HOTEL Hikone offers guests a range of culinary experiences.
The hotel features two on-site restaurants that serve Japanese cuisine for breakfast and dinner. Guests can savor an Asian-style breakfast, including warm dishes and local specialties.
The dinner menu provides an extensive selection, allowing guests to explore traditional Japanese flavors. While some guests found the food a bit bland, others appreciated the quality and variety.
The hotel’s restaurants cater to diverse tastes, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy a satisfying dining experience during their stay.
Guest Experiences
Guests tend to commend the KAMENOI HOTEL Hikone for its friendly and accommodating staff, earning them an impressive rating of 8.6 out of 10.
Visitors frequently praise the hotel’s spacious accommodations and stunning views of Lake Biwa. Some guests, however, note challenges with English communication.
The hotel’s additional services, including a free shuttle, luggage storage, karaoke, and massage options, further enhance the overall guest experience.
While the public bathing areas have restrictions for guests with tattoos, the hotel’s diverse range of room types, from traditional Japanese-style to accessible options, caters to a wide variety of traveler needs.
Hotel Policies
The KAMENOI HOTEL Hikone adheres to a set of policies that aim to provide a comfortable and regulated stay for its guests.
Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and check-out is until 10:00 AM.
Children of any age are welcome, but those 3 and above are charged as adults.
Pets aren’t allowed, and smoking is prohibited throughout the property.
Guests with visible tattoos may be restricted from using the public bathing areas.
The hotel offers a free shuttle service and luggage storage, while massage services are available at an additional charge.
Nearby Attractions
Within close proximity to the KAMENOI HOTEL Hikone lies an array of captivating attractions that beckon guests to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Just 2.7 km away, visitors can enjoy the grandeur of Hikone Castle, a renowned historical landmark.
Taga-taisha Shrine, a revered Shinto shrine, is situated 10 km from the hotel, offering insights into Japan’s spiritual traditions.
Plus, the lush Green Park Santo, located 18 km away, provides a tranquil escape amidst verdant landscapes.
For those seeking convenient access, Maibara Station lies 6 km from the hotel, and Nagoya Airport is within a 72 km radius, facilitating seamless travel to and from the KAMENOI HOTEL Hikone.
Getting to the Hotel
Conveniently located, the KAMENOI HOTEL Hikone can be easily accessed from various transportation hubs in the region.
The hotel is a 2.7 km drive from the iconic Hikone Castle and just 6 km from Maibara Station, a major railway hub.
Guests traveling from further afield can reach the hotel in around 18 km from Green Park Santo or 72 km from Nagoya Airport.
The hotel offers a free shuttle service to assist guests with their transportation needs.
Whether arriving by train, car, or plane, the KAMENOI HOTEL Hikone is well-connected and accessible, making it a convenient choice for travelers exploring the Shiga prefecture.
Booking Information
To book a stay at the KAMENOI HOTEL Hikone, guests can check availability and make reservations through the hotel’s official website or by contacting their reservation team directly.
Rates and room types can be viewed and selected based on individual needs and preferences. The hotel accepts a variety of payment methods, including credit cards and cash.
Guests are encouraged to inquire about any special offers or packages available during their desired travel dates.
The hotel’s reservation team is available to assist with any questions or special requests, ensuring a seamless booking experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the On-Site Restaurants?
The hotel does not specify a formal dress code for its on-site restaurants. Casual attire is generally acceptable, allowing guests to dine comfortably in the hotel’s Japanese-style dining establishments.
Are There Any Special Events or Activities Organized by the Hotel?
The hotel offers a range of additional services and activities for guests, including a free shuttle service, luggage storage, karaoke, and massage services, though some may incur an extra charge. It also has public bathing facilities like a hot spring bath.
Can Guests Request Early Check-In or Late Check-Out?
Guests can request early check-in or late check-out, though it’s subject to availability and may incur additional fees. The hotel aims to accommodate requests when possible, though they can’t guarantee availability outside of the standard check-in/out times.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Longer Stays?
The hotel offers various packages and discounts for longer stays, such as multi-night deals and extended stay rates. Guests should inquire about these options when making their reservation to take advantage of potential savings.
What Are the Payment Methods Accepted by the Hotel?
The hotel accepts a variety of payment methods, including major credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. They also accept cash payments in Japanese yen. Advance deposits may be required for certain bookings or rates.
The Sum Up
Tucked away on the shores of Lake Biwa, this hotel offers a slice of Japanese tranquility that’ll have you saying "arigato" in no time. Our stay here was a delightful blend of traditional hospitality and modern comfort.
From the moment we stepped into the lobby, we were whisked away into a world of tatami mats, sliding shoji screens, and that unmistakable aroma of green tea. The rooms? A perfect mix of East meets West, with futons for the adventurous and Western-style beds for those who prefer to keep their backs off the floor.
But let’s talk about those hot springs! After a day of exploring nearby Hikone Castle (a must-see, by the way), there’s nothing quite like soaking in a steaming onsen while gazing out at the misty lake. It’s the kind of experience that makes you wonder why you ever thought a bubble bath at home was relaxing.
The staff here are attentive without being intrusive – a skill that seems uniquely Japanese. They’re always ready with a helpful suggestion or a map to the nearest convenience store (because, let’s face it, sometimes you just need a late-night snack run).
If you’re looking to learn about Japanese culture without diving headfirst into the chaos of Tokyo, this lakeside retreat is your ticket. And speaking of tickets, you can book your stay through the button below. We use Booking.com for our reservations (it’s free and usually offers competitive prices), so you can rest easy knowing you’re getting a good deal while we get to keep bringing you these juicy travel tidbits. Now, who’s ready for some sushi?