Overview

At Yuzanso, you’ll wake up to the sweeping views of Lake Biwa and unwind with the healing waters of Ogoto Onsen. Located just 20 minutes from Kyoto by train, this lakeside ryokan blends nature, luxury, and relaxation into one unforgettable stay.

Mount Hiei rises behind the property, adding a mountain backdrop to the lakefront scenery. Whether you’re soaking in an open-air bath, enjoying a multi-course meal, or simply relaxing in your room, you’ll find your stay here filled with moments of calm and delight.

Accommodation

Choose from over 100 rooms, including suites with private open-air baths. The top-floor Satoyama Suites sit on the highest point in the area, offering panoramic views of Lake Biwa and Mount Hiei. These luxurious rooms include a tatami area, private bath, deck chairs on the veranda, and Mikimoto skincare amenities.

Other options include the Executive Satoyama Twin and the Hoshi no Shizuku rooms, which combine Japanese elegance with Western comfort. Each room includes yukata, towels, pajamas, and a full set of toiletries. You can find single beds on tatami floors for a blend of tradition and relaxation.

Dining

The chefs at Yuzanso celebrate the rich food culture of Shiga Prefecture. Meals highlight Omi beef, seasonal vegetables from the on-site garden, freshwater fish from Lake Biwa, and hand-selected local sake.

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast made with locally grown rice and produce. For dinner, enjoy a carefully crafted menu that might feature Omi eggplant, Ibuki daikon, or butterbur shoots fresh from the hotel’s garden. The dashi soup stock adds depth and umami to each dish.

You can savor dishes crafted by Executive Chef Junichi Mori, a nationally recognized culinary master. His creativity brings together tradition, innovation, and regional flavors on every plate.

Onsen and Wellness

The open-air baths at Yuzanso let you relax with views of Lake Biwa as the seasons change around you. The water comes from Ogoto Onsen, known for its high alkaline content (pH 9.0) that leaves your skin feeling soft and refreshed.

Public baths include features like whirlpools, jet baths, and saunas. The men’s bath is inspired by the folk tale of Benkei, while the women’s bath draws from the legend of the Heavenly Maiden’s Dance. Step outside after your soak to cool off on the breezy deck at the “Yujori-Okubo” relaxation area.

Hot spring hours run from early morning through late evening, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a soak whenever you like.

Guests with Tattoos

If you have tattoos, it’s best to ask at the front desk about using the public baths. The staff will help you find the most comfortable option for your stay.

Facilities

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the ryokan
• Free parking for up to 40 cars
• Shuttle service from JR Ogoto Onsen Station (call upon arrival)
• Multilingual support: English, Chinese, Korean
• After-bath lounge area with deck seating
• Gift shop
• Yukata, pajamas, skincare, and full toiletries in all rooms
• Air conditioning and heating
• 24-hour front desk

Activities

From Yuzanso, you can explore the heritage-rich city of Kyoto by day and return to a peaceful lakeside retreat by evening. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike Mount Hiei or visit temples in nearby towns. At the ryokan, take part in seasonal experiences or simply watch the sunset from your balcony.

You can also try different types of sake at night, carefully chosen from over ten local breweries known for their unique flavors and brewing traditions.

Additional Features

• Check-in: 15:00 / Check-out: 10:00
• Free shuttle to and from JR Ogoto Onsen Station
• Rooms with and without open-air baths available
• No smoking throughout the building
• Spacious public baths and saunas available to all
• Executive suites located on floors 9 and 10