Being a luxury chain hotel, everything was of the Western-style. Staff was very accommodating - English friendly. There are a ton of amenities located on the property (tennis courts, gym, etc.) They have an in-hotel restaurant that was really classy, possibly the classiest meal I've had in Japan - nothing like the Marriott Hotels in America.

Aside from being located across some of the Biwako statues and landmarks, there isn't much to do around the area. You are more or less limited to what the Hotel has to offer (which it has a lot of). Unless you have a car or are renting a taxi, you are limited to having dinner at the Hotel (which isn't a bad thing, but expensive).

Excellent hotel right by Lake Biwa. Booked last minute during off-season after a day hike along the lake. The hotel offers a free shuttle bus from JR Katata Station every half an hour. Gym is new and equipped enough for a quick workout, the sports facilities and public bath are located in an older wing but well-maintained. The Japanese style room with lake view was good. Meanwhile, the restaurant on the top floor with a near 360-degree view of Lake Biwa for breakfast was outstanding, together with a rich Japanese and Western buffet served by very attentive staff. Would definitely stay again!

The only store nearby is the Pieri shopping centre, a 15-to-20-minute walk away. There is a sidewalk, but the light is sparse and dim in the evening, making it hard to navigate. Having the shuttle bus stop at the centre during various times of the day would be great.

20 mins drive from the ski resort, it was ideal to stay here and access the resort easily. There is also a sports gymnasium with basketball and tennis courts, and a spa.

The restaurants close by 9pm and they have no room service after. Also we had to pay extra charges on top of what we paid at booking.com so that was a bit disappointing.

I booked Western room for 2 friends and Japanese room for my family of 3. The western room is newer, bigger and nicer than Japanese room. It was good that both rooms have a lake view.

Japanese room seems dated and bathroom is very small.

nice hotel for a short break and relaxation

none

The staff was very friendly and supportive. When a family with loud children made disturbances next door. The front staff moved us to a quiet room. The breakfast was also excellent.

staff were very nice and they answered me quicky possible.

i didn't check the Shattle bus schedule at Katata station. it was more than 1 hour waiting. I used a taxi.

Great location, incredible Kew from the room. Awesome food and staff were exceptional

It needs a bit of a facelift

Room was spacious and view of lake biwa was amazing. Conveniently located to many attractions around Biwa

No coin laundry service in hotel

Japanese room. Excellent view of the lake

Very crowded at breakfast.