Set on the northeastern shores of Lake Biwa in Japan's Shiga Prefecture, Nagahama is a fantastic city for culture buffs and outdoorsy explorers. There’s a good choice of accommodation options both in the city centre and in the quiet countryside around it. Whether you’re eager to discover Lake Biwa National Park or to visit the city’s temples and historic landmarks, the best places to stay in Nagahama offer a brilliant base for your trip.

Originally called Imahama, Nagahama was renamed in the 16th Century by General Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who built his castle in the area. Though much of the original building lies in the ruins, its reconstructed centre now houses the Nagahama Castle Historical Museum. Other intriguing sights include Daitsuji Temple, Ho Park, Keisoku-ji Temple and Shizugatake Peak, which boasts stunning views. Kurokabe Square, home to the Kurokabe Glass Museum as well as a number of workshops, galleries and cafes, comes highly recommended. Nagahama's glass-blowing is legendary, as its the region's cuisine.

Venture further afield for boat trips to Chikubu Island or afternoons at Sugar Lakeshore Village on Lake Biwa. The surrounding national park offers excellent hiking, mountain biking and bird-spotting. Retreat to one of the best places to stay in Nagahama City to unwind in time for your next adventure!

The Best Places to Stay in Nagahama

For Foodies

• L'Hotel du Lac offers 15 rooms and suites in a tranquil location on the shores of Lake Biwa. Couples, families and friends will appreciate the swimming pool, tennis courts and national park hikes. Foodies can feast on Head Chef Griffin Coleman's regularly changing menu of 12-15 dishes showcasing local produce and the fermentation processes of the Kohoku area. Innovative and minimalistic.

FOR AN APARTMENT or Holiday Villa

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Nagahama?

• Fly to Chubu Centrair International Airport in Nagoya or to Osaka's Kansai International Airport and hop aboard the train to Nagahama via Kyoto. The drive from Kyoto to Nagahama takes around an hour and 20 minutes; some fast trains will get you there in under an hour.
• You may want the flexibility of driving if you're exploring beyond the city limits. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the summer, spring or early autumn, when temperatures range between 22 and 28°C degrees. This is the best time for outdoorsy adventures.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Kyoto.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Japan.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Nagahama