Trips around Lake Biwa, and sightseeing in Kyoto
Urban Hotel Kusatsu is located close to Lake Biwa.
The location is also where the Tōkaidō and Nakasendō (both major pre-modern highways) meet,
and serves as a departure point for trips to the Kotō Sanzan and Konan Sanzan temples.
Kyoto is just 21 minutes away by train, making Urban Hotel Kusatsu convenient for exploring Kyoto as well.
Located close to Kusatsu-juku Honjin, a landmark that has stood witness to the evolution of Kusatsu over centuries, Urban Hotel Kusatsu is enveloped in the ambience of a historic post-station town. Here is a selection of the scenic highlights of Shiga Prefecture, where Lake Biwa and the surrounding natural beauty reign supreme.
Konan (lit. south of the lake) is the destination for lakeside leisure. Central to the area is Kusatsu-juku, situated just 5 minutes on foot from the hotel, which was originally the 52nd of the 53 post station towns along the Tōkaidō (a major pre-modern highway starting at today's Tokyo and terminating at Kyoto). Other lakeside attractions include the Lake Biwa Museum, lotus colonies, and Nagisa Park.
Kotō (lit. east of the lake) is an area for enjoying seasonal flora and historic buildings. Highlights include Hikone Castle (a National Treasure) renowned for its original medieval keep; Taga-taisha Shrine, which attracts worshippers seeking longevity and luck in romance; and the three Tendai temples collectively known as Kotō Sanzan, famous for their beautiful autumnal foliage.
Kosei (lit. west of the lake) soothes the minds of visitors with its scenic lakeland beauty spots, which include Ōmi Shrine, the mecca of competitive karuta; Biwako Valley, which offers a breathtaking panorama of Lake Biwa; and Shirahige Shrine and its grand torii gate standing tall in the lake.
Kohoku (lit.north of the lake) is Shiga Prefecture's foremost visitor destination. Highlights include Nagahama, a historic town first built by warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, which later developed as a post station on the Hokkoku Kaidō (a major highway connecting the Hokuriku and Kansai regions in pre-modern times); the peaceful and serene Kannon no Sato; and Chikubu Island on Lake Biwa, known as a so-called "power spot."
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