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Overview
Shiga Kogen lies in Nagano Prefecture within easy reach of Tokyo. The resort forms the heart of the Joshinetsu National Park with Shiga’s base sitting around 1400m above sea level and then rises a further 1000m above the base making it the highest ski resort area in Japan.
Secluded, beautiful and vast are three superlatives that come to mind when describing Shiga Kogen. It's higher elevation promises colder conditions and dryer powder which rivals Niseko and other resorts in Hokkaido (Japan's Northern Island) meanwhile promising less crowds and a more authentic Japanese experience.
Shiga Kogen is well suited for beginner, intermediate or advanced skiers and snowboarders with plenty of variety of trails over the 600 hectares the resort has to offer. Shiga has 18 interconnected ski areas on the one all mountain pass, making it Asia’s largest resort - with something for everyone. Shiga Kogen was also home to ski and snowboard slalom events during the 1998 Winter Olympic events.
Backcountry gates are now available in the Okushiga Kogen area of Shiga so those that want to experience challenging off piste terrains it can also find it here.
Amongst the 18 ski areas there are 5 main bases Ichinose, Okushiga, Yakebitaiyama, Giant and Sun Valley. Ichinose is the biggest with over 20 hotels as well as bars and restaurants to enjoy, while Yakebitaiyama is the closest to Ichinose and home to the Prince group of hotels, Okushiga is close by as well and offers a great international ski school, while Giant and Sun Valley have around 10 hotels each.
Featured Packages
Save 25%
Deluxe Shiga Kogen
The price is based on no peak. This is applied from 1st March 2025-31st March 2025.
Save 15%
Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel West Wing
Twin share per person rate from 2nd March 2025-15th March 2025. It excludes New year, Saturday, Public holiday.
Featured Accommodations
Adventures & Attractions
Our recommended resort highlights.
Shiga Kogen Family Friendly Activity Area
Yakebitaiyama Family Snow Park, by Prince Hotel West Wing, offers snow bikes, sleds, and tubes from mid-Dec to late-March. Reduced rates for guests.
Shiga Kogen Restaurants and Bars
Shiga Kogen has limited but good dining options. In Ichinose, you’ll find 25 hotels with bars and restaurants, including Teppa Room and izakayas.
Snowmobiles in Shiga Kogen
Snowmobiles in Shiga Kogen offer fun rides for all ages. No license needed; minimum age 6, with tandem rides required for ages 6-12.
Snow Monkey
The famous wild monkey park in Yamanouchi, Nagano, is reachable by daily shuttle from Akakura Onsen. A 20-30 min forest walk leads to the park.
Shibu Onsen
The historic village, once frequented by samurai and poets, offers peace and charm. Bathing in all its onsens is said to bring good fortune.
Shiga Kogen Winter Festivals
Experience local winter festivals with traditional performances, food stalls, and cultural events celebrating the season.
Madarao Kogen Ski Resort
Madarao ski resort boasts varied terrain, including tree runs, open slopes and fresh powder. Perfect for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort
Nozawa Onsen offers epic powder, long runs and a charming village with natural hot springs - perfect for a true Japanese winter experience.
Myoko Kogen Ski Resort
Myoko offers deep powder, varied terrain and a mix of runs for all levels. Enjoy stunning views, tree skiing and a vibrant apres-ski scene.
- How to Reach Shiga Kogen
- Resorts & City Guide
By Air
Matsumoto Airport is the closest (1.5 hours by train), but Tokyo or Osaka airports offer the easiest access to Shiga Kogen.
By Train
Take the bullet train to Nagano or Iiyama, then a 45-60 minute bus to Shiga Kogen. Kudanaka Station is an alternative but less frequent option.
By Car
Hiring a car from Nagano Station makes the 1-hour drive to Shiga Kogen easy. A car isn’t necessary once in the resort due to its connectivity.
By Bus
Nagano Snow Shuttle, resort transfer buses, and direct buses from Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagano make bus travel to Shiga Kogen convenient.
By Private Transfer
Private transfers from Tokyo, Osaka, Matsumoto, or Nagano can be arranged for direct access to Shiga Kogen.
Below are some PDF tourist maps to help you navigate and enjoy your time in Shiga Kogen.
