Smile Hotel Otsu Seta in Otsu

One of the best mid-range business hotels in Japan.
The room is not large, but it is comfortably sized and has everything you need.
The location is excellent, right next to the station, making it very convenient for getting around Shiga or traveling to Kyoto.
The staff are very friendly and professional.
The view from the room looks directly over the railway tracks, which feels quite relaxing, but it is not noisy at all.
Right near the hotel, there are izakaya restaurants, traditional local eateries, and convenience stores. Aeon is also very easy to reach for shopping.
Suitable for both business trips and leisure travel, and a good choice for a wide range of guests.

This hotel was really close to the station, and much of the walk was under a covered sidewalk (good for rain). The train ride to Kyoto is around 20 minutes, which honestly would be the same as some areas of Kyoto, so for the price it's a great value. Also great for Lake Biwa and Hikone sightseeing.

Room: Pretty Clean (10/10)
Location: 2 Mins walk to the Seta Station (10/10)
Service: They even say good night to me (10/10)
Facilities: They have laundry at 2nd Floor easy to use (10/10)
Btw I come to Seta for anime lol

This hotel is super convenient, just 50 meters from the Seta Station exit on the Biwako Line, making it incredibly easy to get around by car or train. While the hotel is a bit older, it's well-maintained. The views from the window are expansive, the price is reasonable, and breakfast is also available.

The room was compact and clean, typical of a standard Japanese hotel in terms of layout and hygiene, though a bit dated. The peeling wallpaper didn't affect our stay. It was my first time using a key for both opening the door and activating the electricity. Toiletries, a fridge, a coin-operated washer/dryer, and breakfast were all provided, which was very convenient for my cycling trip. The hotel staff could communicate in simple English, and even if they didn't understand, they used a translator; their attitude was friendly and welcoming.

The location is definitely its biggest advantage, being very close to JR Seta Station and bus stops. It only takes 5 minutes from the room to the platform, so bringing my bicycle wasn't an issue. There are convenience stores, ramen shops, yakiniku restaurants, and even a Torikizoku that stays open late nearby. If I come back to Kansai for another cycling trip, I'd definitely consider staying here again.

This is a decent hotel I stayed in during my travels in Japan. The main problem is that the wallpaper is peeling, which makes people feel uncomfortable. The location is good, Seta Station can be seen at a glance, not far from Kyoto, and the transportation is convenient. The service attitude is very good. My companion couldn't find the breakfast coupon, so the front desk gave him another one. The breakfast was also okay. It is a good hotel with a little renovation.

good clean

The lady receptionist is very helpful and kind. Much appreciated for your help! In general, the hotel situates for just a 2-minute distance from Seta JR Station, and it takes around ~20min travelling time from/to Kyoto. Reasonable facilities given the price is economic. Thank you for the hospitality.

The room was clean, and the location of the hotel is very close to the JR Ishiyama station.
The staff was friendly and spoke fluent English.