Maibara(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For train travelers, Mihara Station Front Daiwa Hotel is ideal—just a 2-minute walk from Mihara Station, with convenient access to the Tōkaidō Shinkansen and local trains. The hotel offers modern Japanese-style rooms with excellent connectivity to Kyoto, Osaka, and Nagoya. Another top choice is Prince Hotel Mihara, known for its spacious facilities and business-friendly services. Both properties provide easy access to Kansai Expressway, making them perfect for travelers combining rail and road journeys.

The central district near Mihara Station is the most convenient area for lodging. It’s well-connected to major cities via rail and highway, and offers a wide range of dining options—from local Shiga regional cuisine like fresh Lake Biwa perch to international fast food. For tranquility, consider staying at Lake Biwa resort hotels along the shoreline, such as Lake Biwa Camp Resort, which provides serene views, outdoor activities, and a peaceful retreat away from urban bustle.

Visitors should explore Chōshōji Castle Ruins and Mihara Hachimangū Shrine. The former is a historic site from the Sengoku period, now a scenic park ideal for cherry blossom viewing in spring. The latter hosts the annual Mihara Festival, featuring traditional kagura dances and craft markets. Additionally, try hands-on Lake Biwa fishing experiences, learning to use traditional nets and savoring freshly caught Biwa Perch, offering an authentic taste of Shiga’s "Lake Cuisine" culture.

Recommended for families: Hilton Garden Inn Mihara, featuring a kids’ play area, family suites, and 24-hour breakfast service. Located just a 5-minute walk from Mihara Station, it’s ideal for traveling with children. For a luxury option, Lake Biwa Four Seasons Resort offers private beach access, outdoor pools, and guided family activities. Its tranquil lakeside setting and personalized service make it perfect for a memorable family getaway.

Key photography locations include Lake Biwa at sunrise or sunset, where the reflection of Mount Ibuki creates stunning visual contrasts. The Mihara Station front plaza, with its modern architecture and passing Shinkansen trains, offers dynamic urban shots. Chōshōji Castle Ruins Park features ancient stone walls and trees framing natural compositions. For rural beauty, visit rice paddies along the Shirakawa River trail, especially during autumn when golden fields stretch under the mountains—ideal for landscape photography.

Start your day at Chōshōji Castle Ruins Park, walking through historical grounds and cherry blossoms. Enjoy lunch at a station-side restaurant with local specialties like fresh Lake Biwa perch sushi and fish hot pot. In the afternoon, take a sightseeing boat on Lake Biwa or cycle along the lakeside path. Return to the city center in the evening to visit Mihara Hachimangū Shrine, experience its lantern-lit night view, and explore the old town streets for souvenirs and dinner.

While Mihara itself lacks hot springs, nearby Ena Onsen and Nearby Ōmi-Hachiman Spa District offer excellent options. Stay at Songfengting Ryokan in Ōmi-Hachiman, renowned for its open-air baths overlooking the Ōmi-Hachiman Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Alternatively, Daiwazan Onsen in Ena provides traditional tatami rooms and mineral-rich waters. Both are within a 30-minute drive from Mihara, perfect for a relaxing spa day after exploring the region.

Must-try dishes include Lake Biwa Perch (Biwa Koi), grilled or served as sushi, prized for its delicate flavor. Sushi made from fermented crucian carp (Funa-zushi)—a Shiga specialty with centuries-old tradition—is uniquely savory. Don’t miss Ōmi Beef skewers, known for rich marbling and tender texture. Also sample lotus root tempura and lotus root rice balls, showcasing the region’s agricultural heritage. These delicacies are widely available at Mihara Station Market and Chōshōji Old Town stalls.

Absolutely. Mihara City lies at the junction of the Tōkaidō Expressway and Hokuriku Expressway, making it a prime base for cross-regional road trips. Scenic routes lead to Mount Ibuki foothills and the eastern shores of Lake Biwa. Renting a compact car is recommended for navigating local roads. Most hotels offer free parking, and navigation systems are highly accurate. Use Mihara as a hub to explore central Japan efficiently.

Couples will love the nighttime illuminated path along Lake Biwa, where soft lights reflect on the water, creating a dreamy atmosphere. Book a Lake View Honeymoon Suite at Hilton Garden Inn Mihara, complete with a private balcony and soaking tub. Take a sightseeing boat cruise at dusk, enjoying wine and snacks under the stars. For culture lovers, visit Mihara Hachimangū Shrine together to pray for love, then join a handmade paper umbrella workshop—create a shared keepsake while bonding over traditional craftsmanship.