Yokoteyama–Shibutoge
Japan’s highest lifts (~2,307 m). Long scenic cruisers and wide alpine views.
The Shiga Kogen Zones
Ride with the All-Mountain Pass across dozens of lifts and multiple linked areas: Sun Valley, Giant, Hasuike, Ichinose Family/Diamond, Takamagahara, Terakoya, Higashi/Nishitateyama, Yakebitaiyama, Okushiga, Kumanoyu, and Yokoteyama–Shibutoge.
Kumanoyu
High, cold, and consistent snow quality. Quiet, compact slopes for focused laps.
Yakebitaiyama
Olympic-host slopes, fast groomers, and gladed lines; modern high-speed lifts.
Okushiga Kogen
North-facing pitches with powder pockets and tree runs; relaxed, scenic vibe.
Ichinose (Family & Diamond)
Central hub with night skiing, restaurants, and easy access to surrounding areas.
Takamagahara & Terakoya
Linking heart of the network—cruisy laps, great for mileage and connections.
Higashitateyama & Nishidateyama
Classic Shiga groomers with variety and quick links toward Ichinose/Takamagahara.
Sun Valley, Maruike & Hasuike
Gateway bases near the Nagaden bus stops; mellow terrain and good first-day warmups.
Giant
Steeper piste beside Hasuike—short, sharp laps and a nice step-up in difficulty.
Passes & Tickets
- Shiga Kogen All-Mountain Pass: Unlimited travel across the linked lifts and zones—perfect for resort hopping days.
- Area-Limited Passes: Good value if you’re staying around a single base like Ichinose or Yakebitaiyama.
When to Visit
Late Nov–Dec
High-elevation lifts spin first; early-season laps.
Jan
Coldest temps, frequent storms, dry powder days.
Feb
Prime snow with more bluebird windows for exploring.
Mar–Apr
Sunny spring laps; great views & soft snow cruising.
Onsen to Soak
Finish your day with natural hot springs around Shiga and nearby towns.
- Shiga Kogen area baths — hotels around Ichinose & Yakebitaiyama often offer day-use.
- Shibu Onsen — classic alleyways & public bath circuit near the snow monkeys.
- Yudanaka Onsen — convenient before/after the express bus to Nagano.
Mountain Fuel
Nagano comfort staples:
- Shinshu soba, oyaki, nozawana, local apple pies.
- Curry rice, ramen, and bakeries clustered around Ichinose.
- Après in Ichinose & Yakebitaiyama; izakaya runs down in Yudanaka/Shibu.
Getting to Shiga Kogen
Fly
Fly into Tokyo (HND/NRT) or Matsumoto. Most visitors take the Shinkansen to Nagano, then the express bus to Shiga Kogen (Hasuike / Ichinose).
Rail
Hokuriku Shinkansen to Nagano, then the direct Nagaden express bus to Shiga Kogen. Local trains to Yudanaka also connect to buses up the mountain.
Shuttles
Resort shuttles run throughout the linked zones. Check last-bus times if you finish away from your base area.
Alpine & Weather Awareness
Linked terrain = long traverses and variable exposure. Mind wind holds, cold snaps, and visibility. Follow patrol guidance and carry the usual winter kit when venturing off the main pistes.