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Holiday houses in Lake Biwa

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Top-rated holiday rentals in Lake Biwa

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

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Top Guest favourite
A spacious house is illuminated in the evening, showcasing a welcoming entrance surrounded by lush greenery. The exterior features traditional sliding doors and a wooden fence, creating a blend of privacy and openness. Warm light glows from the interior, enhancing the inviting atmosphere.
Home in Otsu
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 182 reviews

9 minutes from Kyoto Station / Parking for up to 10 people / No accommodation tax / 4 bedrooms / 5 minutes on foot from the station / Children welcome / Spacious detached house / Accessible

Why not deepen your connection with your loved ones at a quiet, barrier-free accommodation in a single-family home selected from the top 1%? 5 mins walk to JR Otsu station. 10 minutes from Otsu Station to JR Kyoto Station, and about 40 minutes to JR Osaka Station. A 2-minute walk from Keihan Kamisaka Station, with excellent access to Kyoto Sanjo and the shores of Lake Biwa. Free parking available on site. The interior is clean, there are few steps, and there are many handrails, so you can feel at ease.Even 10 people can relax.Babies welcome😄 Access to Kyoto and Osaka is also convenient, and as a representative of Lake Biwa, there are historic buildings such as Hikone Castle, Lake Biwa Valley, marine sports, cycling, Ishiyama-dera Temple, and many other tourist resources such as autumn leaves, and you can feel the appearance of Japan in all seasons.❗️ I love this area. There are many restaurants, major coffee shops, convenience stores, and supermarkets around JR Otsu Station, making it convenient.😊 We have a lot of amenities, including towels and coffee.😊 As a business, I use English to convey the charm of Japan and abroad to parents and children throughout Japan, and develop children who can think of from a global perspective. We hope to be able to help you with memories that will last a lifetime.

LocationFamilyNearby

Guest favourite
A room designed in a traditional style is furnished with two spacious beds, arranged parallel to each other. Natural light filters through a window adorned with light curtains, illuminating the tatami flooring and subtle wooden accents throughout the space.
Home in Hikone
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 105 reviews

A private house within walking distance of Hikone Castle, a National Treasure/1 group per day/50 minutes to Kyoto/Free parking for up to 2 cars

Located in the center of Hikone-shi, this place is close to everything you want to visit with your family. Free parking is in front of the inn, so it is easy to carry your luggage! It is comfortable to stay with about️ 1 person to 4 people, but up to 6 people can stay if not possible.It is also a great place for biwaichi around Lake Biwa by bicycle. In winter, you can reach the Grand Snow Oku-Ibuki Ski Resort in one hour.This is the perfect place for a one-night stay. There is a shopping street called "Taisho Romantic Shibancho Square" within walking distance, so you can feel like you're traveling by walking.There are also various restaurants and restaurants. It is a 3-minute walk to the Hiko Nara Museum, a 5-minute walk to Castle Road, and a 10-minute walk to Hikone Castle, a national treasure.It's also a great place to take a walk with your car♪ There are many delicious morning shops nearby, so you can rest assured that you can have breakfast.♪ Located in the center of Shiga Prefecture, it is a convenient place to visit sightseeing spots such as "La Colina" in Omihachiman, "Black Wall Square" in Nagahama, and Taga's "Taga Taisha". You can access most popular tourist destinations in Shiga, and Kyoto is also an hour away by train or car.

FamilyLocationWalkability

Guest favourite
Home in Takashima
4.95 out of 5 average rating, 131 reviews

[Koshin] Entire traditional house rental *Popular with groups* Long-term stays welcome * BBQ allowed * 50 minutes from Kyoto * 10-minute walk to Lake Biwa

This is an entire old house [Kokoro-]. It will be a private house for one group per day where you can feel the rich nature of Shiga Prefecture and enjoy rural life. It is an old and calm space that can accommodate up to 10 people. Please relax with your family and friends. It is about 1 hour by car from downtown Kyoto, and if you come by train, it is about 20 minutes by bus from Azumikawa Station on the JR Kosei Line, and 10 minutes by taxi. It is popular with overseas customers, families, and groups. BBQ set (equipment) is available for a fee, so please feel free to contact us. Free parking on premises. Parking is available for up to 3 vehicles if it is a regular car. In case of large cars, please contact us in advance as it may be difficult for 3 cars. If you consult us in advance, we can also rent it for a fee. We also rent bicycles for free. There are also plenty of outdoor facilities in the surrounding area, so please use it as a base for activities. Please use it as a base while cycling at Lake Biwa. We also upload information on surrounding tourist destinations and facility information on social media. Instagram @ kokoro_shiga.takashima

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Superhost
The entrance area features a traditional wooden table surrounded by seating on tatami mats. Soft light filters through the shoji screens, creating a welcoming atmosphere. A large emblem is prominently displayed, contributing to the space's character and charm.
Hut in Otsu
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 183 reviews

Lake Biwa View Old Private House 30 minutes from Kyoto Station SUGIE

Sugie is a simple lodging (licensed as a hotel) in a spacious old house surrounded by the beautiful Lake Biwa Canal, a Meiji-era legacy, and is conveniently located 30 minutes from Kyoto Station and 35 minutes from Keihan Sanjo. My grandparents were wealthy merchants who used the above-mentioned Soso (inclined canal) to transport white sand, gravel, granite for gate pillars, etc. to the shrines and temples of Kyoto in wooden boats from the early Showa period. They built a torii gate and shrine in the garden of the house and worshiped Inari to prosper in business. There are many old and rare items such as a large water house (dish rack), a long brazier, and a lantern with a family crest.

LocationValueBiking

Guest favourite
A traditional Japanese room features a tatami mat floor and sliding doors. A low wooden table is centered, surrounded by round cushions. Natural light enters through large windows, complemented by soft shoji screens. Decorative elements include a vase with flowers.
Home in Omihachiman
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 114 reviews

15PPL Home | Walk to Old Town/La Collina | 2 Baths

📍 90% of local sights within walking distance. Perfectly located in the historic district. 🚶 Top Location: 10-min walk to La Collina: Most visited, iconic architecture & sweets. 7-min walk to Hachiman-bori: Top-rated canal & iconic Samurai movie site. 5-min walk to Local Market: Perfect for premium Omi Beef. ✨ Highlights: 4BR Home: Traditional layout with backyard & balcony. Modern Perks: Full kitchen w/ dishwasher & premium cookware Convenience: 4-min walk to 24h Lawson & free parking

ValueFamilyParking

Top Guest favourite
A light-filled living area is presented, featuring two dark sofas with soft cushions. A low wooden table is positioned in the center. Large windows provide a view of the peaceful garden, allowing natural light to illuminate the space.
Home in Takashima
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 233 reviews

Spacious house with garden, facing a local shrine

To ensure you enjoy the stay to the fullest, I set check-in and check-out time to both 12:00 Noon. So you can stay up for 24 hours with one night booking. YAMANOTE HOUSE is accessible from major Kansai stations with 37min from Kyoto Sta. or 65min from Osaka Sta. If you come by car from Kyoto it takes less than 1 hour. The area aournd the house is once small castle town. The house is located next to the Shrine, Hiyoshi-Jinja, where the Omizo Festival is held on May 3 and 4 every year.

FamilyValueIndoor spaces

Guest favourite
An exterior view of a traditional wooden guest house is displayed, featuring a tiled roof and wooden slatted doors. The facade is a blend of white and dark wood, providing a classic appearance. A wooden ramp leads to the entrance, ensuring accessibility.
Hut in 近江八幡市新町
4.89 out of 5 average rating, 133 reviews

Omi's Machiya "Kado" Traditional building preservation area

This is the only guest house (entire house rental) facing Shinmachi Street in an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. The streets lined with merchants' houses, built in the late Edo period to the Meiji era, give you a strange feeling as if time has stopped when you step into it. This Shinmachi neighborhood is important not only for its scenery but also as a historical site. This is a very rare accommodation where you can stay in such an area.

LocationFamilyAccess

Top Guest favourite
Hut in Takashima
4.94 out of 5 average rating, 145 reviews

然 -sikari- | A Stayable Kissa in Rural Japan

A quiet private house with a small skateable garden, one hour from Kyoto and near Lake Biwa. The handmade concrete landscape can be skated or enjoyed as sculpture. Surrounded by rice fields, with birds, wind, and clear starry nights. Renovated by the host, a Japanese painter, into a simple teahouse-like space. Ideal for writers, artists, and anyone seeking stillness. Two nights or more recommended. Not a place to consume, but to pause and reconnect with your senses.

ValueLocationSleep quality

Top Guest favourite
Home in Otsu
5 out of 5 average rating, 32 reviews

Aogawara (The Blue Roof)

Showa Retro House with Easy Access to Kyoto & Osaka. Enjoy the best of both worlds—excellent access to top sightseeing spots and a quiet, relaxing local neighborhood. With two convenient train lines nearby, you can easily explore Kyoto, Osaka, and Otsu’s historic sites during the day. After a day of sightseeing, return to a calm, non-touristy area where you can truly unwind. The shores of Lake Biwa are also just a 15-minute walk away, perfect for a peaceful stroll.

LocationFamilyLong stay

Guest favourite
The exterior view of a two-level wooden house is displayed, featuring palm trees and a gravel yard. A car park for three vehicles is visible, along with boats and kayaks stored under a covered area. Bright blue skies with scattered clouds provide a vivid backdrop.
Villa in Takashima
4.91 out of 5 average rating, 533 reviews

Lake Biwa Lakeside villa/

We have a Canadian house, just a stone through away from the beautiful Lake Biwa. Suitable place to stay for a big group of family / friends and a work trip. Sleeping arrangements: 6 bedrooms 12 beds 3 futons Facilities: 1 bathroom with a tub 1 shower room 2 toilets Fully equipped BBQ Grill Fire Place Canoe, kayak, and two SUP boards are available (May–October) free *only for ppl with experience and reservation required. Parking for up to 4 cars in the property

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Guest favourite
Cabin in Takashima
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 135 reviews

【連泊15%オフ】薪ストーブ&BBQデッキがあるログハウス一棟貸し|最大8名|メタセコイア車10分

滋賀県高島市、琵琶湖と箱館山に挟まれた豊かな自然の中に佇む1日1組限定の一棟貸しログハウス「グリーン・ビュー・ロッジ」です。 ご家族、ご友人グループ、女子会、連泊でのご滞在に最適な広々とした空間をご提供しています(最大8名様まで)。 ■ 充実の設備・特徴 ●薪ストーブ: 冬場(12月~3月)は薪ストーブの温もりの中でゆったりとお過ごしいただけます。 ●ウッドデッキ: 開放感のあるウッドデッキでバーベキューや星空鑑賞をお楽しみいただけます(BBQコンロ無料貸出)。 ●キッチン&カフェカウンター: 広々としたキッチンと雰囲気あるカウンターがあり、大人数での料理作りや食事・歓談にぴったりです。 ●インナーテラス: お天気を気にせず寛げる明るいインナーテラスを完備。 ■ 周辺観光・アクセス(お車での所要時間) メタセコイア並木: 車で約10分 箱館山スキー場 / パフェ専門店: 車で約6分 琵琶湖湖畔(今津エリア): 車で約7分 マキノ高原・温泉: 車で約15分 白髭神社: 車で約20分 最寄りスーパー・コンビニ: 車で約10分

ValueFamilyCleanliness

Top Guest favourite
Townhouse in Kyoto
4.97 out of 5 average rating, 156 reviews

Kiyomizu Area | Machiya House | 6 Guests | Gion

TABITABI MITSU is a fully renovated 100-year-old Kyoto machiya near Rokuharamitsuji Temple. This private entire house offers a calm stay for one group per day. The entrance features historic stone paving once used for Kyoto’s streetcars. The flooring showcases traditional “Naguri” hand-carved textures. Enjoy a serene garden view and relax in the semi-open-air bath with a Shigaraki ceramic tub. Upstairs includes a tatami room and bedroom with refined design details.

FamilyValueCleanliness

Popular amenities for Lake Biwa holiday rentals

Other great holiday rentals in Lake Biwa

Top Guest favourite
A traditional Japanese storehouse is set against a clear blue sky, featuring dark wooden walls and a distinctive tiled roof. Outdoor seating is arranged on green grass, with two red lounge chairs and a wooden table. Scenic hills are visible in the background.
Hut in Nagahama
4.99 out of 5 average rating, 86 reviews

Kakurekura Traditional Stay| Private Japanese Home

LocationFamilyComfort

Guest favourite
Cabin in Takashima
5 out of 5 average rating, 32 reviews

Nordic Mountain Cabin Takashima | Near Lake Biwa | Campfire | Sunset | Stunning Mountain Views

FamilyLocationDecor

Guest favourite
A traditional Japanese room features sliding shoji doors, revealing a serene garden view. A bright red umbrella is positioned outside, alongside lush greenery and jagged stones. Natural light illuminates the tatami mat flooring, enhancing the tranquil environment.
Home in Otsu
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 60 reviews

[Kominya Onigiri] 159㎡ private rental / 2 minutes to Lake Biwa / 40 minutes to Kyoto / BBQ for large groups

FamilyLocationBiking

Superhost
Home in Higashiomi
4.93 out of 5 average rating, 70 reviews

A trad house with garden views and open air bath

LocationFamilyKitchen

Top Guest favourite
Home in Nagahama
5 out of 5 average rating, 17 reviews

[Shiragatake] [Limited to 1 group per day] Traditional kominka house with a garden featuring koi carp [Biwaiichi]

LocationFamilyNearby

Guest favourite
The entrance of the traditional building is framed by lush greenery, highlighting the structure's wooden features and tiled roof. A sign above the door identifies the property. A pathway leads through a vibrant garden, inviting guests to explore further.
Hut in Higashiomi
4.92 out of 5 average rating, 24 reviews

A 150-year-old house built on the grounds of a shrine with a Japanese garden with a pond and a tea room, private rental for up to 6 people  

FamilyValueCondition

Top Guest favourite
Home in Otsu
5 out of 5 average rating, 8 reviews

3 stations, 13 minutes from Kyoto Station. A unique inn where you can enjoy jazz and travel like a local

LocationComfortGetting around

Top Guest favourite
Home in Takashima
5 out of 5 average rating, 11 reviews

[4-Minute Walk from Lake Biwa] Entire private vacation rental with floor heating throughout, a hot tub, tiled deck, and BBQ, surrounded by the sounds of birdsong

ValueLocationComfort

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Where is Lake Biwa located?

    Lake Biwa sits in Shiga Prefecture on Japan’s main island of Honshu, surrounded by mountains and traditional towns. The area is near Kyoto and draws both residents and visitors interested in nature, culture, and local food.

  • When is the best time to visit Lake Biwa?

    Late spring and autumn are frequently suggested for exploring Lake Biwa, when temperatures are mild and outdoor views are vibrant with seasonal flowers or changing leaves. Summer brings warmer weather for water activities, while winter tends to be quieter with crisp air.

  • What are some things to do near Lake Biwa?

    Around Lake Biwa, you can explore activities like visiting historic shrines and castles, enjoying lake cruises, or relaxing at traditional hot spring inns. The area also has walking and cycling paths, as well as seasonal cherry blossom and autumn foliage viewing.

  • How is the weather near Lake Biwa?

    Lake Biwa experiences cool winters with temperatures ranging from 34–49°F (1–9°C) in January, and warm, humid summers reaching 76–92°F (25–33°C) in August. Spring and autumn are milder with moderate rainfall, making outdoor activities pleasant.

Destinations to explore