J-Hoppers Lake Biwa Guesthouse

8.8
Excellent
(125 reviews)

931-1 Kitahira, Otsu, Shiga 520-0503, Japan

+81 77-596-1616

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Hotel Description

Lake Biwa Travelers' Lodge

Nestled just a two-minute stroll from the stunning white-sand beaches of Lake Biwa, J-Hoppers Lake Biwa Guesthouse offers an inviting and cozy atmosphere in a three-story building that prioritizes comfort and accessibility. Located at 931-1 Kitahira, Otsu, Shiga 520-0503, Japan, this humble hostel serves as a perfect base for travelers eager to explore the rich beauty and culture of the area. Guests can enjoy the vibrant surroundings, including the picturesque views of Lake Biwa and the lush greenery that surrounds it. The guesthouse is conveniently situated just 1 km from Omi-Maiko train station, providing easy access to public transport and enabling guests to easily explore local attractions. Yobai Falls, a natural wonder only 5 km away, beckons nature enthusiasts and those looking to immerse themselves in the serene Japanese landscape. The design of the guesthouse reflects a traditional yet relaxed vibe, making it an ideal spot for both solo travelers and families seeking a friendly and authentic experience. The rooms at J-Hoppers are designed with comfort in mind, featuring a variety of accommodations ranging from cozy private rooms to single-sex dormitories. Some rooms are adorned with tatami mats and furnished with futon beds, providing a unique cultural experience that enhances the stay. All rooms come equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi and air-conditioning, ensuring guests feel right at home. The ambiance of the guesthouse promotes relaxation, with clean and simple decor that fosters a peaceful environment conducive to unwinding after a day of adventure. One of the standout features of J-Hoppers Lake Biwa Guesthouse is its commitment to providing essential amenities that enhance the overall guest experience. The guesthouse offers complimentary rice, tea, and coffee, which can be enjoyed in the casual TV lounge or the communal kitchen, where guests can prepare their own meals. The furnished terrace provides stunning views of the lake, making it a perfect spot to enjoy breakfast or unwind with a book. Additionally, the guesthouse features a covered patio equipped with BBQ facilities, encouraging guests to socialize and enjoy outdoor dining. For those traveling with bicycles, secure bike storage is available, allowing guests to explore the scenic cycling routes along the lake. Other amenities include a coin-operated laundry and convenient parking facilities for those with vehicles. Transportation to and from J-Hoppers is incredibly convenient, with several public transport options nearby. The Omi-Maiko train station is just a short distance away, making it easy for guests to access the larger cities of Osaka and Kyoto. For those flying in, the Osaka International Airport (Itami) is approximately a 1-hour and 17-minute taxi ride away, while the Nagoya Airport (Komaki) is about 2 hours and 13 minutes by taxi. Other nearby airports, including Kobe Airport and Chubu Centrair International Airport, are also accessible, ensuring that guests can travel comfortably and efficiently. In light of the ongoing global health situation, J-Hoppers Lake Biwa Guesthouse has implemented stringent health and safety measures to ensure the well-being of all guests. These measures include enhanced cleaning protocols throughout the property, easy access to hand sanitizers, and social distancing practices in common areas, highlighting the guesthouse’s dedication to maintaining a safe and comfortable environment for all. Guests at J-Hoppers will find a myriad of activities and experiences available both on-site and in the surrounding area. Whether it’s exploring the serene beaches, renting bicycles to ride along the lake, or participating in local cultural events, there is something for everyone. The nearby Biwako Terrace offers breathtaking panoramic views and serves as an ideal spot for sunset watching. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in water sports such as kayaking and jet skiing at Omi-Maiko Nakahama Beach, just an 11-minute walk from the guesthouse. The local area is rich with significant landmarks and attractions that enhance the overall experience for guests. Notable sights include the Biwako Terrace, a stunning viewpoint that is just a 19-minute ride away, and the historical Sanzen-in Temple, a venerable Buddhist site known for its lush gardens and tranquil atmosphere, which is approximately 29 minutes from the guesthouse. The Shirahige Shrine, known for its iconic in-lake torii gate, is also nearby, offering guests a glimpse into Japan's spiritual heritage. Dining options abound in the vicinity of J-Hoppers Lake Biwa Guesthouse, with a variety of restaurants catering to diverse tastes. Guests can indulge in authentic Japanese cuisine at きまま亭 しま, just a 7-minute taxi ride away, or enjoy the laid-back vibes of R cafe, a Hawaiian restaurant only a minute away. For those seeking local specialties, シゼンゴハンノオミセオオキナキ is a mere 5-minute taxi ride, and Kenzuiya, serving delicious traditional dishes, is just 4 minutes from the guesthouse. The Japanized western restaurant, キノシタリョウリテン, offers a unique dining experience just 6 minutes away. J-Hoppers Lake Biwa Guesthouse invites you to experience a perfect blend of comfort, culture, and convenience. With its welcoming atmosphere and extensive offerings, it is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the breathtaking beauty of Lake Biwa and immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Japan. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, J-Hoppers promises an unforgettable stay that caters to all your travel needs.

The Most Outstanding Trait

1. Guests praised the kitchenettes for added convenience

2. Just an 11-minute walk to Omi-Maiko Nakahama Beach

3. The service includes a helpful concierge to assist guests

4. One of the few hotels in the area that has a restaurant

5. Offers secure bike storage for cycling enthusiasts


6.0 Good

Location rating

Top sights

Biwako Terrace The Main-Grand Terrace
19 min
Omi-Maiko Nakahama Beach
11 min
Shirahige Shrine Torii
17 min
Sanzen-in Temple
29 min
Shirahige Shrine
13 min

Nearest locations

R cafe
1 min
COCO beach
1 min
Kenzuiya
4 min
シゼンゴハンノオミセオオキナキ
5 min
一心 〜Hito_Kokoro〜
5 min
キノシタリョウリテン
6 min
炭火焼き ペパーミント
6 min
きまま亭 しま
7 min
See more Interesting locations

Good to know

Check-in15:00
Check-out12:00
Location rating6.0
Nearest airportOsaka International Airport (Itami Airport)
Travel time to airport1 hr 17 min

Nightly price (Only for reference price for sample day)

Check-in: Sun, Nov 17
Check-out: Mon, Nov 18
    Official Hotel

    $40

    Booking.com

    $36

    Bluepillow.com

    $39

    Priceline

    $43

    Vio.com

    $39

    goseek.com

    $39


Location

931-1 Kitahira, Otsu, Shiga 520-0503, Japan

Airports:

Osaka International Airport (Itami Airport)

Taxi: 1 hr 17 min

Transit: 2 hr 12 min

Nagoya Airport (Komaki Airport)

Taxi: 2 hr 13 min

Transit: 2 hr 23 min

Kobe Airport

Taxi: 1 hr 45 min

Transit: 2 hr 31 min

Chubu Centrair International Airport

Taxi: 2 hr 21 min

Transit: 2 hr 40 min

Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX)

Taxi: 2 hr 1 min

Transit: 2 hr 48 min

Transit:

Kita-Komatsu Station

Taxi: 9 min

Walking: 52 min

Hira Station

Taxi: 6 min

Walking: 21 min

Ōmi-Maiko Station

Taxi: 3 min

Walking: 18 min

Shiga Station

Taxi: 9 min

Walking: 59 min


Nearby locations

6.0

Good Location

A 2-minute walk from the nearest white-sand beach along Lake Biwa, this humble hostel in a 3-story building with stair-only access is 1 km from Omi-Maiko train station and 5 km from Yobai Falls.

Top Attractions

Top Restaurants


Amenities and Facilities

Activities

Bicycle rental

Languages spoken

English

Japanese

Public bath

Public bath

Private bath

Accessibility

Not accessible

Accessible parking

Food & drink

Restaurant

Table service

Vending machines

Wellness

No fitness center

No spa

Pools

No pools

Rooms

Air conditioning

Parking & transportation

Parking

Self parking

Services

Front desk

Baggage storage

Concierge

Convenience store

Self-service laundry

Pets

No pets

Policies & payments

Smoke-free property

Credit cards

Cash

Business & events

Meeting rooms

Children

Kid-friendly

Activities for kids

Internet

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi in public areas

Public internet workstation


Reviews

100% reviews from partners and customers booking on Dinogo

8.4

72 reviews

Wonderful
39
Excellent
19
Good
5
Below Average
7
Not Good
1
Cover Image for Masaru Bunya

Masaru Bunya

4/5
Dormitory useSecond use. A facility often used by foreigners.It's far from the station and there are no shops around.Self-catering facilities are available, and many people cook their own meals.There is a large bathtub where you can relax.Recommended.

Cover Image for いい人いい人

いい人いい人

2/5
I don't want to be singled out, so I'll take the time to comment.Other people have written about how kind the receptionist is, but I didn't really feel that way. It felt like I just received the accommodation fee early and that was it.

Cover Image for Antonio Moreno

Antonio Moreno

5/5
Excellent location, quality and price

Cover Image for Yoko Ikeda

Yoko Ikeda

5/5
Great experience. THANKS.

Room 5

Service 5

Location5

Cover Image for ひぐちともみ

ひぐちともみ

5/5
This is a very clean inn located right next to Lake Biwa.I think it's easy for families to use and enjoy long stays.

Cover Image for イヴ

イヴ

5/5
Near the lake, premises of exemplary cleanliness where you can rest peacefully after a good bath in the clear water of Lake Biwako.Everything is available (kitchen...).Excellent value.

Cover Image for Shinobu Sengoku

Shinobu Sengoku

2/5
My Black friend and I stayed here together and experienced some bonafide racist nonsense. Let's get into it ladies and gentlemen.We had a private room booked with 3 futons and were planning to have a third friend come up the following day to join us, which we had already let the staff know about. The evening before, we met up with another friend to swim in the lake and went back to our room for beers. The moment we walked in around 8.30pm, the young Japanese woman at the counter (I think her name is Chi) gave us strange instructions and attitude, saying "he's not staying so first floor only". Her tone was like she was speaking to staff. We had no idea what her instructions meant (there's nothing on the first floor except the showers and the lobby...?) but our room was on the first floor anyway so we said ok and went to our room. We'd been in the room for 30 seconds when the woman suddenly knocked on the door demanding our friend leaves. She changed her tune and started talking about this rule of "no guests after 9pm", which is an insane rule for a hotel/hostel anyway, but it doesn't say this anywhere in the hostel, on their website, or on our booking. It is totally made up. I can only assume she thought we were staff and had to make up something when she realised we were paying guests.She was still being kind of rude to us and wouldn't leave us alone until she saw him leave, so our friend apologised and we all went outside the building to discuss what to do now since we had been basically kicked from our room, but this woman followed us and continued to be rude for no reason even though we did as she asked. My friend at this point started to get angry with her, and she responded with comments like "you can't act like, this is Japan" which is a CRAZY thing to say. After I asked her what exactly she wants from us she realised the answer is nothing and went to her car and called her boss lol.The managers drove down and double down on this made up rule. They didn't even address the random first floor rule, were rude too and tried to insinuate we were sneaking a third person in, even after he literally left, and even threatened to call the police. We were literally just sitting on deck chairs outside the hostel doing nothing. It was so wild. Eventually they realise there is nothing else to say because no "rules" (made up or otherwise) had been broken nor intended to be broken, so they go and sit in the lobby to gossip until we went back to our room.As a white person I've never experienced such confusing nonsense in my life. We were polite from the outset and did nothing to warrant being treated the way we were. I can only attribute the behaviour to anti-Blackness. I will never give this business my money again!P.S. the futons were VERY uncomfortable, I had to pile up 3-4 winter duvets on top of my futon and pillow to get any degree of comfort

Cover Image for tanaka

tanaka

4/5
I stayed there.The room charge was cheap which was very helpful.I was glad that the room was clean as well.

Cover Image for Ho Kong

Ho Kong

5/5
It is very convenient for camping for 2 nights and 3 days, as there is a kitchen and bathhouse.It takes about 12 minutes to walk to the nearby swimming hole.

Cover Image for X XS

X XS

2/5
I used a dormitory, and a white man who lived downstairs kept coming in and out all night, making me feel restless, so I could hardly sleep.Every time I entered the cafeteria, I was followed by the Japanese guy who was having a drinking party there, and it was creepy.I think it was just bad luck, but I feel like this kind of thing tends to happen when guesthouses get bigger.I used it at Biwaichi, but to be honest, I don't think I would recommend it as an accommodation for Biwaichi.I made a reservation based on the idea of ​​supporting Biwaichi, but I was a little surprised at how unfriendly the woman at the reception desk was.For reference, I asked Biwaichi users where they usually park their cars, such as in the coin parking lot, but I didn't feel like they were bothering me at all, and they responded to the paperwork.It was a no-brainer.