Hotel Koo Otsu Hyakucho.

Instead of confining guests to a single building, Hotel Koo Otsu Hyakucho embraces a "town as a hotel" concept. Spread across seven beautifully restored, century-old machiya townhouses in central Otsu, this decentralized property integrates travelers directly into the fabric of a historic post town. Guests check in at a central reception before heading to their respective lodgings scattered throughout the neighborhood. Inside, the design marries traditional Japanese woodwork and quiet courtyards with sleek Scandinavian furniture and modern soundproofing. There are no generic buffets here; instead, the hotel serves a signature breakfast of local unagi chazuke (eel over rice). It is a highly atmospheric, thoughtful base just steps from the old Tokaido road and a short walk from Lake Biwa.