This article introduces JR West's Hanaakari Sightseeing Train, a limited-time sightseeing train operating from Osaka around Lake Biwa to Ogoto Onsen in summer 2026. Learn about the train's highlights, scenic views, and what to see and do at the historic Ogoto Onsen, one of Shiga Prefecture's best-known hot spring destinations.
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Ogoto Onsen is said to have been opened about 1,200 years ago by Dengyo Daishi Saicho to reward the work of the craftsmen who built Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei, a World Heritage Site. Among them, Yumotokan is a long-established inn with a history of 96 years. The secret to its popularity is its four different hot springs, including an open-air bath overlooking Lake Biwa from the 11th floor and an open-air bath that gives the illusion of being a hot spring in the forest, as well as its Kyoto-style kaiseki meals made with carefully selected seasonal ingredients, including "certified Omi beef," one of Japan's three great wagyu beef brands. Although it is only 20 minutes by train from Kyoto, this inn allows you to feel the warmth of nature and Japan, such as Lake Biwa and the Hira mountain range.
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Table of Contents
- Experience the Hana Akari Sightseeing Train Around Lake Biwa
- Arrive at Ogoto Onsen: A Historic Hot Spring Retreat
- Experience Traditional Hospitality at Yumotokan
- Only 20 Minutes from Kyoto: A Convenient Base for Sightseeing
- Plan Your Summer 2026 Journey on the Hanaakari Sightseeing Train
Experience the Hana Akari Sightseeing Train Around Lake Biwa
In the summer of 2026, JR West's sightseeing train "Hanaakari" will operate on a special route around Lake Biwa. "Hanaakari" is a sightseeing train that sets itself apart from typical express trains. Its beautiful black and gold exterior is a modern expression of traditional Japanese aesthetics. Even before boarding, passengers are foreshadowing a special journey.
Departing from Osaka Station, the train circles Lake Lake Biwa , Japan's largest lake, while visiting representative cities of Shiga Prefecture such as Kyoto, Hikone, and Nagahama . The final destination is Ogoto Hot Spring Station, which boasts a history of approximately 1200 years. The train's interior features warm, woody furnishings, and large windows offer leisurely views of Lake Biwa and the surrounding countryside. Furthermore, passengers can enjoy local cuisine such as Omi beef bento boxes and traditional Shiga sweets from long-established Shiga shops, making the train journey itself a special sightseeing experience.
Arrive at Ogoto Onsen: A Historic Hot Spring Retreat
The Saturday and public holiday service of the "Hanaakari" train terminates at Ogoto Hot Spring Station. Upon disembarking, you'll find yourself in Ogoto Hot Spring with a history of approximately 1200 years. The natural hot springs that soothe the fatigue of your journey, the beautiful sunset Lake Biwa, and the tranquil atmosphere of the hot spring town will further enrich the lingering memories of your train journey. One accommodation you should definitely consider staying at in Ogoto Hot Spring is "Ogoto Hot Spring Yumotokan," where you can enjoy four different types of hot springs.
Experience Traditional Hospitality at Yumotokan
At Yumotokan, you can enjoy the open-air bath on the top floor (11th floor) overlooking Lake Biwa, as well as a variety of other baths with different atmospheres. For meals, we offer Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine featuring "certified Omi beef," known as one of Japan's three finest wagyu beef brands, and seasonal local Omi vegetables. Our cuisine, which reflects the four seasons of Shiga, has received high praise from many domestic and international guests.
Among them, our top recommendation is the "Hamo & Certified Omi Beef Kaiseki" plan. Enjoy a plan that lets you savor the summer of Omi, including "Hamo" (pike conger) with a refreshing texture thanks to the chef's special ponzu sauce, and "certified Omi beef," so you can beat the summer heat. In addition, in rooms with open-air baths or lake-view rooms, you can enjoy the leisurely pace of time while gazing at Lake Biwa.
*The "Conger Eel & Certified Omi Beef Kaiseki Course" is available until August 30th.
Only 20 Minutes from Kyoto: A Convenient Base for Sightseeing
Ogoto Hot Spring boasts excellent accessibility, being only about 20 minutes from Kyoto Station by JR train. Enjoy a tour of Lake Biwa aboard the "Hanaakari" train, and indulge in the hot springs and local Omi cuisine. This luxurious trip, offering a taste of quintessential Japanese scenery, food, and hot springs all in one, is highly recommended for international visitors.
The following day, visitors can also explore tourist spots within Shiga Prefecture, such as Enryaku-ji Temple on Mount Hiei, Omihachiman, Hikone Castle, and Nagahama , making this a noteworthy new way to enjoy traveling in the Kansai region.
Plan Your Summer 2026 Journey on the Hanaakari Sightseeing Train
The "Hanaakari" sightseeing train, which will operate only during the summer of 2026, is a special train that allows you to fully enjoy the charm of Shiga and the beauty of rail travel. And to make your trip even more memorable, we recommend staying overnight at the final stop, Ogoto Hot Spring. Hot springs overlooking Lake Biwa, gourmet cuisine unique to Shiga, and heartfelt hospitality. A relaxing time at Yumotokan, continuing the excitement of your train journey, will surely become an unforgettable memory of your trip to Japan.
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