In my years exploring Japanese mountain retreats, this lakeside haven stands out for its winning combination of comfort and outdoor adventure. The well-maintained rooms, while not luxurious, deliver the essentials – comfy beds, private baths, and those practical mini-fridges that budget-conscious travelers appreciate. The real star here is the natural hot spring bath – perfect after a day on the slopes or hiking trails.
A couple of heads-ups: The hotel shows its age in spots, with some dated furnishings, and if you’re expecting high-end dining, you might want to look elsewhere. But these are minor quibbles for what you get.
This place is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly skiers who’ll love the ski-to-door access and rental shop. Families with kids will appreciate the playground and spacious rooms, while nature lovers can fill their days with hiking, canoeing, or simply soaking in those mountain views. Budget-conscious travelers seeking an authentic Japanese mountain experience – without the luxury price tag – will find real value here.
We included this hotel in the 23 must-visit hotels in Shiga Highlands, Yamanouchi.
Good To Know
- Located in Yamanouchi, Nagano, Japan, the Shiga Lake Hotel offers convenient access to Jigokudani Monkey Park and Ryuoo Ski Park.
- Amenities include free parking, non-smoking rooms, hot spring bath, and a breakfast buffet, providing a comfortable and relaxing stay.
- Rooms feature private bathrooms, seating areas, TVs, and fridges, with some offering stunning views of the lake or mountains.
- The hotel offers a range of outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, canoeing, and fishing, making it an ideal base for adventure seekers.
- Guest services include baggage storage, laundry, and meeting facilities, as well as safety features such as fire extinguishers and security alarms.
Hotel Overview
The Shiga Lake Hotel is located in Yamanouchi, Nagano, Japan.
It’s 8.5 miles from Jigokudani Monkey Park, 15 miles from Ryuoo Ski Park, and 72 miles from Matsumoto Airport.
The hotel has a rating of 7.1, based on 33 reviews, with high marks for its staff, location, and free WiFi.
Guests can enjoy popular amenities like free parking, non-smoking rooms, a hot spring bath, and breakfast buffet.
The rooms feature private bathrooms, seating areas, TVs, and fridges, with some offering lake or mountain views.
On-site activities include ski access, hiking, canoeing, and a children’s playground.
Amenities and Facilities
Guests at the Shiga Lake Hotel can take advantage of a host of on-site amenities and facilities.
The hotel offers free parking, non-smoking rooms, and complimentary WiFi. Families will appreciate the available family rooms and the children’s playground.
Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s hot spring bath and take part in activities like skiing, hiking, canoeing, and fishing.
The rooms come equipped with private bathrooms, seating areas, TVs, and fridges, and some provide lake or mountain views.
Additional services include baggage storage, laundry, and meeting facilities, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay for all travelers.
Room Features and Comfort
Rooms at the Shiga Lake Hotel come well-equipped with private bathrooms featuring showers and free toiletries.
Guests can unwind in the seating area and enjoy in-room amenities like a TV and fridge. Some accommodations even offer stunning views of the lake or mountains.
The hotel’s commitment to comfort is evident in the thoughtfully designed rooms, which provide a cozy and relaxing atmosphere for travelers.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or a home base for outdoor adventures, the rooms at Shiga Lake Hotel ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Activities and Recreation
Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Shiga Lake, the hotel offers a wealth of activities and recreational opportunities for guests to enjoy.
Skiers and snowboarders can take advantage of the ski-to-door access, ski rental services, and on-site ski school. For those seeking outdoor adventure, the hotel provides access to walking tours, hiking trails, canoeing, and fishing.
Families can keep the little ones entertained at the playground. After a day of exploration, guests can unwind with a karaoke session or relax in the hotel’s hot spring bath.
Highlights:
- Ski-to-door access, ski rentals, and ski school
- Walking tours, hiking, canoeing, and fishing
- Playground for children
- Hot spring bath and karaoke
Guest Services and Policies
The Shiga Lake Hotel offers a comprehensive suite of guest services to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay. Guests can take advantage of amenities like lockers, baggage storage, and a wake-up service.
The hotel also provides fax/photocopying, laundry, and meeting/banquet facilities for added convenience. For safety, the property features fire extinguishers, CCTV in common areas, smoke alarms, security alarms, key access, and a safe.
Check-in is at 3:00 PM, and check-out is at 10:00 AM. The hotel welcomes children of all ages, though children 12 and above are charged as adults.
Pets aren’t allowed, and different policies apply for bookings of more than three rooms.
Accessibility and Safety
The hotel’s barrier-free accessibility and robust safety measures ensure a secure and comfortable experience for all guests.
Shiga Lake Hotel offers:
- Facilities for disabled guests, including wheelchair-accessible rooms and pathways.
- CCTV in common areas and a secure key access system to safeguard guests.
- Smoke alarms and fire extinguishers strategically placed throughout the property for fire safety.
- A dedicated security alarm system and a safe deposit box at the front desk for personal valuables.
These features demonstrate the hotel’s commitment to providing a safe and accessible environment for all travelers.
Location and Nearby Attractions
Shiga Lake Hotel enjoys a picturesque location in Yamanouchi, Nagano, Japan, offering guests easy access to a wealth of natural wonders and cultural attractions.
The hotel is situated just 8.5 miles from the renowned Jigokudani Monkey Park, where visitors can observe the famous snow monkeys bathing in natural hot springs.
Plus, the hotel is within 15 miles of the Ryuoo Ski Park, 22 miles of the Suzaka Zoo, and 25 miles of the historic Zenkoji Temple.
For those traveling by air, Matsumoto Airport is approximately 72 miles from the hotel.
Guests can easily explore the region’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage during their stay at Shiga Lake Hotel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guests often inquire about the hotel’s policies and amenities.
For example, the hotel has a tattoo policy that may restrict guests from accessing public bathing areas. Yukata robes aren’t provided during the winter months from December to March. Reservations are required for hiking tours at the time of booking.
The hotel accommodates children of all ages, though those 12 and older are charged as adults. No cribs or extra beds are available.
The hotel accepts group bookings, but different policies apply for reservations of more than 3 rooms. The staff is multilingual, speaking both English and Japanese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hotel Suitable for Business Travelers?
The hotel may not be the best choice for business travelers, as it lacks some typical business amenities like meeting rooms and focused services. However, the free WiFi and workspace areas could still accommodate basic business needs.
Can the Hotel Arrange Wedding or Event Services?
The hotel offers meeting and banquet facilities, making it suitable for hosting events like small weddings or corporate functions. However, specialized event planning services are not mentioned in the available information.
What Are the Options for Dining Outside the Hotel?
Outside the hotel, there are several dining options nearby. Guests can explore local restaurants, cafes, and food stalls within the surrounding area to experience the local cuisine and culture.
Is There a Fitness Center or Gym On-Site?
There is no fitness center or gym on-site at the hotel. The hotel primarily focuses on providing amenities and activities related to the nearby ski slopes and hot spring baths rather than fitness facilities.
Can the Hotel Accommodate Guests With Special Dietary Requirements?
The hotel can accommodate guests with special dietary requirements. They offer a breakfast buffet and can provide alternative meal options upon request, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free dishes.
The Sum Up
The Shiga Lake Hotel offers a serene and rejuvenating escape in the heart of the Japanese Alps. With stunning views, luxurious amenities, and a wealth of outdoor activities, this charming hotel caters to the diverse needs of its guests. Whether seeking relaxation or adventure, travelers are sure to find an unforgettable experience at the Shiga Lake Hotel.