Enjoy Learning and Fun This Summer in Nagahama, Connected to the Toyotomi Brothers — Weekly Rotating Events at a Lakeside Resort Hotel [Grand Mercure Biwako Resort & Spa]

Grand Mercure Biwako Resort & Spa, an all-inclusive lakeside resort hotel located in Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture (General Manager: Mitsuaki Hashime), will host a variety of family-oriented events this summer, rotating by day of the week.

From historical experiences unique to Nagahama—where the Toyotomi Hideyoshi and his brother Hidenaga once thrived—to parent-child workshops and scenic activities enjoying the picturesque views of Lake Biwa, a wide range of content has been prepared. Participation fees for most events are included in the all-inclusive accommodation plan, allowing guests to enjoy their stay without worrying about additional costs. (Note: Events may be changed or suspended without prior notice due to weather or other conditions.)

Event Overview

＜Events and Activities by Day of the Week＞

【Monday Only】Sunset Viewing from the Rooftop

A special activity offering breathtaking views of Nagahama’s sunset—a location selected for “Japan’s Top 100 Sunsets”—from the hotel rooftop. Guests can witness the rare and stunning scenery as both the sky and Lake Biwa are beautifully painted in evening hues.

【Dates】August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, September 7, 14, 2026

【Time】18:00–18:30 (approx. 30 minutes)

【Note】Children in elementary school and younger must be accompanied by a guardian.

【Tuesday Only】Summer Rakugo Night

An evening event featuring live storytelling by rakugo performer Asado Nampu, who brings the tale of the Toyotomi brothers to life with vivid narration. Suitable for both children and adults, this performance immerses guests in the historical era.

【Dates】August 4, 11, 18, 25, 2026

【Time】19:00–19:30 (approx. 30 minutes)

【Venue】Special Event Hall, 2nd Floor

【Wednesday Only】“Natsu-Biwapo” – Lake Biwa Clean Walk

“Biwapo” is a coined term meaning “a pleasant walk by Lake Biwa to feel the seasons.” This event takes place in the cool morning hours, combining a refreshing lakeside walk with a cleanup activity.

【Dates】July 23, 30, August 6, 13, 20, 27, 2026

※ Available for guests staying on Wednesday nights, to be held Thursday mornings

【Time】8:00–9:00 (approx. 60 minutes)

【Location】Toyo Park lakeside, in front of the hotel

【Note】Cleaning tools will be provided.

【Thursday Only】“Mitsunari-kun” Rickshaw Parade & Photo Session

“Mitsunari-kun,” Nagahama City’s tourism mascot based on the Sengoku-era general Ishida Mitsunari, arrives by rickshaw. Guests can capture memorable moments with photos.

【Dates】August 6, 13, 20, 27, 2026

【Time】16:30–17:00

【Location】1st Floor Lobby

【Notes】

・Photography will be conducted in a designated area, with guests guided in order.

・Hotel staff will take photos using guests’ smartphones or other devices.

【Friday Only】Exciting! Kids Burger School

※ Image is for illustration purposes only

Guests can enjoy creating their own original burgers by combining buns, patties, vegetables, and favorite sauces.

【Dates】July 24, 31, August 7, 14, 21, 28, 2026

【Time】17:30–18:00

【Location】Le Sensoriel Buffet Restaurant, 2nd Floor

【Capacity】Up to 80 guests per day (on a first-come, first-served basis; registration closes when full)

【Notes】

・Open to guests staying on plans that include breakfast and dinner.

・This event is designed for children up to elementary school age. Open flames and cooking tools will be used.

【Saturday Only】“Mitsunari-kun” Comes to the Hotel!

Mitsunari-kun visits the hotel on Saturdays as well. Guests can take photos, interact, and enjoy a joyful, smile-filled experience.

【Dates】July 18, 25, August 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, September 5, 12, 19, 26, 2026

【Time & Location】

1st Floor Lobby: 16:30–17:00 / 2nd Floor Restaurant: 18:00–18:30

【Sunday & Obon Period Only】Colorful Summer Calligraphy Experience

Using vibrant colored inks, guests can express summer-themed words or favorite characters. A fun and accessible experience for both children and adults.

【Dates】July 19, 26, August 2, 8–16, 23, 30, September 6, 13, 20, 27, 2026

【Time】17:30–21:00 (last registration at 20:30)

【Location】Shop, 1st Floor

＜Other Recommended Activities＞

Amphibious Bus Arrives Daily in August!

Take a ride on an amphibious bus along the lakeshore, then splash into Lake Biwa. Special departures from the hotel’s main entrance.

【Dates】

＜Evening Service＞August 1 (Sat) – 31 (Mon), 2026; September 5 (Sat), 12 (Sat), 19 (Sat) – 22 (Tue), 26 (Sat)

＜Morning Service＞August 2 (Sun), 9 (Sun) – 16 (Sun), 23 (Sun), 30 (Sun), 2026; September 6 (Sun), 13 (Sun), 20 (Sun) – 23 (Wed), 27 (Sun)

【Times】

＜Evening Service＞Check-in at 16:40, Departure at 17:10, Return to hotel at 17:50

＜Morning Service＞Check-in at 8:40, Departure at 9:00, Return to hotel at 9:40

【Fare】Adults: ¥2,500, Children: ¥1,500, Infants: ¥500 (per person, tax and service included)

【Organizer】T&T Corporation Ltd.

Garden Pool

Features a shallow area with a depth of 50 cm, making it safe and enjoyable even for families with young children.

【Operating Dates】July 17 (Fri), 2026 – September 27 (Sun), 2026

【Hours】9:30–12:30 / 13:30–18:30 (12:30–13:30 is a break period)

Immersive On-Site Activity: “The Mystery Road of Hideyoshi and Hidenaga”

Download a dedicated app and use your smartphone to explore the hotel premises while solving puzzles themed around the Toyotomi brothers.

【Duration】Approx. 30–60 minutes

【How to Participate】Check posters or flyers available in the lobby or around the hotel. (Recommended for ages 5 and up)

Bottle Gourd Harvesting Experience at the Vegetable Tunnel

Bottle gourds are currently growing in the hotel’s courtyard and will form a tunnel-like structure by August, welcoming guests.

Bottle gourds are considered lucky charms associated with Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Guests can harvest and take home the gourds grown in the “vegetable tunnel” on the hotel grounds. A guide on how to enjoy them at home will also be provided.

【Dates】August 4 (Tue), 18 (Tue), 25 (Tue), 2026

【Time】Four sessions: 8:00, 8:15, 8:30, 8:45 (Reservation required, 10 guests per session)

【Location】Next to the Garden Pool

【Sengoku Wakuwaku Summer Campaign 2026】

Grand Mercure Biwako Resort & Spa

A resort hotel located by Lake Biwa, offering serene lake views and access to one of “Japan’s Top 100 Sunsets.” Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Nagahama Station (reachable by JR local line from Osaka), and about 60 minutes by Shinkansen from Kyoto or Nagoya. Convenient access to popular tourist spots such as Kurokabe Square and the Chikubushima cruise boat terminal, making it an ideal base for sightseeing. Situated in a historically rich area known as the land of the Toyotomi brothers, this location