Lake Biwa Otsu Prince Hotel

I had a room on the 17th floor, the view over Lake Biwa was incredible- especially at sunset. There was fireworks in the lake one evening which was fantastic. I was in a Japanese style suite which was so spacious and comfy- just like having your own apartment complete with tatami mats. Free shuttle bus to and from Otsu station was very helpful, as was the luggage delivery service from Kyoto station. There were great restaurants around a 10 min walk away- Grill Sazanmi has incredible food. Was about a 30 minute walk to Otsu port to get the Michigan steam boat tour, or a 15 minute walk to the nearest stations to get elsewhere. No coin laundry facilities, but there is one about a 10 min walk away if you need it, and a local supermarket and drug store around 5 mins away. There is a small convenience store in the lobby of the hotel. Hotel breakfast was a buffet, I would recommend going earlier if you can as they tend to run out of bits around 09:30. I preferred the Top of Otsu buffet as it didn't feel like quite as much of a scramble.

The view from the room is the best. I could not wish for more. The bedroom and bathroom are spacious. A separate toilet is very good as well. The bed, blankets and mattresses heal me after the long day of traveling. I did not try breakfast, so I could not give opinions. Staff is okay. I do not have much participation but there was one day, I was stuck in the rain at Aeon Plaza nearby, after calling several taxi companies and no one sent the taxi, the hotel crew kindly saved my life by getting me one at the end. I was so appreciated. The shuttle bus is convenient but also very punctual. It runs very 30 min, so you have to come a bit early to make sure you can catch it. There is a supermarket nearby as well as convenient stores. I decided to stay here instead of Kyoto because it was a lot cheaper.

It is a nice hotel, rooms are good size, location peaceful with a beautiful view to Lake Biwa, especially view from Breakfast area is special. They operate each half hour a free shuttle bus to Otsu main Station. If you take taxi Zeze station is closer.

Lovely room. The shuttle bus to and from Otsu station is an excellent service. The breakfast is very good with lots of choice. Great lake views. Good laundry service.

The room was very spacious for 3 people and very sufficient space for open suitcases wide on the floor. The room that I was given was with lake view. The view was spectacular with the full Lake Biwa view, including view of nearby buildings and mountains. We can see sunrise from the hotel room. There are some nice christmas decorations at the hotel.