Biwako Hotel is 90% Kids-Friendly
What are the highlights at Biwako Hotel (with kids)?
- Lake-view onsen allows parents to relax while kids watch fountain shows.
- Short walks to lakefront park, fountain, and boat cruises with safe play areas.
- Outdoor pool with shallow section and seasonal operation.
- Free shuttle from station and ample free parking.
- Family-friendly rooms with cribs, extra beds, and children’s yukata.
How Kids-Friendly is Biwako Hotel?
Family-sized rooms, seasonal outdoor pool, children’s breakfast pricing, free station shuttle, and grass play space at Hama-Otsu Nagisa Park 100 m away keep kids active; cribs and children’s meals are available on request; ask about pool schedule.
Considerations for visiting Biwako Hotel (with kids)
Good match for:
- Families Seeking Onsen with Kids: Kids ≤7 can bathe free with parents in indoor and outdoor baths.
- Easy Lake Activities: Within 5 min walk to park, fountain shows, and boat cruises on Lake Biwa.
- Train-Friendly Access: Under 10 min walk to Biwako-Hamaotsu Station for quick trips to Kyoto.
Things to keep in mind:
- Families Looking for Theme Parks: No onsite water slides or amusement rides; nearest parks are 10 km away.
- Travelers Seeking Urban Nightlife: Otsu offers a quiet lakeside atmosphere rather than busy nightlife districts.
Transport & Nearby Access
Biwako-Hamaotsu Station: 570 m (8 min walk)
JR Biwako Line to Kyoto Station in 15 min.
Shimanoseki Station: 570 m (8 min walk)
Keihan Keishin Line to central Kyoto in 20 min.
Kids-Friendly Activities around Biwako Hotel
Hama-Otsu Nagisa Park: 100 m (2 min walk)
Open grassy areas by the lake where kids can play and watch ducks.
Tip: Bring a picnic blanket and snacks for family time on the lawn.
Lake Biwa Flower Fountain: 530 m (7 min walk)
World’s longest horizontal fountain with timed water shows.
Tip: Catch the 18:00 light and music show in summer.
Michigan Sightseeing Cruise: 290 m (4 min walk)
Family-friendly boat tours on Lake Biwa with deck space for kids.
Tip: Book the 60-min daytime cruise for snacks and music onboard.
Map of Biwako Hotel
Address: 2-40 Hamamachi, Otsu, Shiga 520-0041, Japan
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How to get to Biwako Hotel:
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Biwako Line to Biwako-Hamaotsu Station (15 min). Walk 570 m (8 min) to the hotel or call to arrange free station pick-up 24 h in advance.
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Kids-Friendly Hotel Facilities
Free facilities in Biwako Hotel:
Public Hot Springs (Onsen):
Separate indoor and outdoor baths with lake views; children ≤7 bathe free with parents.
Outdoor Seasonal Pool:
Shallow area for kids and sun loungers; open mid-May to mid-September.
Station Pick-Up Service:
Free transfer from Biwako-Hamaotsu Station; reserve 24 h in advance.
Paid or on request with possible fees:
Private Open-Air Bath:
Reserve a family-only bath for 3 000 ¥/60 min; includes garden view.
Bicycle Rental:
Rent bikes with child seats or trailers from 2 500 ¥ per child bike.
Buffet Breakfast:
Western and Chinese buffet; children 5–12 pay 1 750 ¥, under 4 eat free.
Accessibility at Biwako Hotel:
All public areas are step-free and reachable by elevator. Wheelchairs are available at the front desk.
Maximizing Your Stay Experience
- Reserve Kids’ Amenities: Request crib, high chair, and children’s yukata when booking to ensure availability.
- Book Private Bath Early: Call ahead to secure the 60-min private onsen slot for family bathing.
- Pack Swimsuits Seasonally: Bring swimsuits and towels for the outdoor pool if visiting mid-May through September.
Reviews of Biwako Hotel
A K
Stayed here for the first time in a Vista floor premier luxury twin room and had an amazing experience. As vista floor customers, we could check in from 2 PM, and we were welcomed with complimentary drinks at a club lounge. The staff were superb — so warm and attentive, they truly made us feel special. There are two separate lounge areas where you can enjoy a wide variety of drinks, including spa...
Nishank Jain
Great stay with a view of the huge lake Biwa. Recommend staying here rather than central Kyoto, has enough train connectivity. Hotel runs a free shuttle to the nearest metro station. Apart from the view, the just outside is the huge lakefront area to relax. The room was large enough, and the staff helpful despite the slight language barrier. Also has an Italian restaurant.
Audrey Han
If you’re looking for a hotel with a view of Lake Biwa, Biwako Hotel is one you should consider. A family of 2 adults and 2 kids, we booked the Lake view "Superior floor" with a natural feel based on "wood" room. We requested for 4 beds. Room was reasonably big to occupy 4 beds and still be able to open two large suitcases. The reception was welcoming and check-in was easy. Staff spoke good Engli...
Will Clayviellie
Biwako Hotel, located in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture, offers a delightful blend of modern amenities and traditional Japanese hospitality. Situated just a short distance from Kyoto, this hotel provides stunning views of Lake Biwa from every room, making it a serene retreat for travelers.
J L
Wonderful stay last night. Dinner and breakfast were delicious, and the osen ♨️ was an amazing experience. Slept great. What stood out also was the hospitality. The attendant who received us gracefully helped us find the bathroom in a pinch despite my non-existent Japanese. The next morning she offered to photograph me and my father when I was taking a photo of him by the lobby Christmas tree 🎄. ...
About Biwako Hotel
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