Hotels in Shiga, Japan

Shiga, located in central Japan's Kansai region, is known for Lake Biwa-Japan's largest freshwater lake covering 670 square kilometers-and the 17th-century Hikone Castle, one of only 12 original castles. The climate brings hot, humid summers (up to 90°F/32°C) and cold winters (around 32°F/0°C), perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing in Lake Biwa during July and August, or cruising the lake in spring (March-May) when cherry blossoms bloom around Otsu's waterfront. In autumn (October-November), hike Mount Hiei to see Enryaku-ji Temple's colorful leaves, while winter is ideal for exploring Nagahama's preserved Edo-period streets without the crowds.