Explore Shiga Kogen: A Premier Ski Destination in Japan

Over the years, I've visited numerous ski resorts in Japan, and I'm excited to share my experiences with fellow ski enthusiasts. This post focuses on Shiga Kogen, the venue for the 1998 Winter Olympics snowboarding and slalom events. Shiga Kogen boasts 18 ski resorts and 48 lifts, with a total ski run length of 80 kilometers, making it the longest in Japan. I've included ski maps, lift ticket prices, and bus schedules in the last three images. 1⃣ Ski Resort Highlights Popular Ski Resorts: 🎿 Ichinose Family: Ideal for families and beginner to intermediate skiers, offering a relaxed vacation atmosphere. 🎿 Yakebitaiyama: A former Olympic venue with advanced facilities, suitable for skiers of all levels. 🎿 Okushiga Kogen: Known for excellent snow quality and scenic views, perfect for beginner to intermediate skiers. 🎿 Takamagahara: Features several intermediate slopes, great for skill improvement. 🎿 Yokoteyama: Home to the highest lift station at 2,307 meters, with the longest ski season. 2⃣ Transportation Options Hokuriku Shinkansen 🚅: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes from Tokyo to Nagano City. Shiga Kogen Express Bus 🚌: Direct from the east exit of Nagano Station to the ski resort in about 70 minutes. Nagano Electric Railway 🚆 + Shiga Kogen Bus 🚌: From Nagano Station to Yudanaka Station, then transfer to a bus. 3⃣ Accommodation Choices In Shiga Kogen, there are various accommodation options to suit different needs and budgets: Recommended Hotels: 🏨 Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel: Located at Ichinose Family, offering ski-in/ski-out facilities, ideal for ski enthusiasts. 🏨 Yakebitaiyama Shiga Kogen Hotel: Situated at Yakebitaiyama, featuring hot spring facilities for a luxurious experience. 🏨 Shiga Kogen Hotel Grand Phenix: Offers Italian-style decor and international cuisine, along with hot springs and an indoor pool. 4⃣ Non-Ski Activities 🛀 Snow Monkey Park 🐒: A unique experience watching monkeys bathe in hot springs. Hot Springs ♨: Shibu Onsen and Yudanaka Onsen are great places to relax. Walking Exploration 🚶‍♂: Visit Kanbayashi Onsen and the park to connect with nature. Photos were taken before the pandemic. Feel free to share your latest pictures and travel updates about Shiga Kogen in the comments section! #Skiing #Snowboarding #SkiResort #Japan #Nagano #ShigaKogen #TravelTips