Shiga Kogen
Shiga Kogen Ski Holidays
Located in the heart of Japan’s Joshinetsu National Park, Shiga Kogen is one of the country’s largest and most impressive ski resorts. Offering 18 interlinked ski areas and over 600 hectares of terrain, it delivers a quieter, more authentic Japanese ski experience away from the crowds of more commercial resorts. With reliable powder, ski-in ski-out accommodation, and easy access to traditional onsens and snow monkeys, Shiga Kogen is ideal for skiers, snowboarders and families looking for something uniquely Japanese.
Where is Shiga Kogen?
Shiga Kogen is located in Nagano Prefecture on Japan’s main island, Honshu. The nearest major city is Nagano, about an hour away by bus.
From Australia, the easiest way to reach Shiga Kogen is to fly into Tokyo (Haneda or Narita Airport) from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane. There are various airlines that fly from major citys in Australia to Tokyo, including Qantas, Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways and Jetstar.
From Tokyo, take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Nagano Station (approx. 90 minutes), then a direct bus or snow shuttle will take you into Shiga Kogen. You can also pre-book a Nagano Snow Shuttle directly from the airport for added convenience.
Where to Stay in Shiga Kogen?
Shiga Kogen is made up of multiple small ski villages strung along the mountain range. Each offers ski-in ski-out access, a handful of hotels or ryokans, and proximity to different terrain. The main areas include:
Okushiga Kogen – quieter and upscale, great for families and advanced skiers.
Ichinose – the hub of the resort with the most restaurants, shops and après options.
Yakebitaiyama – home to wide cruisers and family-friendly slopes.
Hasuike & Maruike – closer to the entrance of the resort with access to beginner-friendly areas.
Best Value Accommodation in Shiga Kogen?
Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel (South Wing) offers ski-in ski-out convenience, buffet dining and affordability. Pre-booking half-board is highly recommended for savings and convenience.
Best Luxury Hotel in Shiga Kogen?
Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel (East Wing) is a premium choice in Shiga Kogen, featuring spacious Western-style rooms, ski-in, ski-out access to uncrowded slopes.
Best Hotel for Families in Shiga Kogen?
Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel (East Wing) offers unbeatable ski-in ski-out access to the Yakebitaiyama ski area. Families will have direct access to gentle beginner terrain, a ski school, equipment hire and family snow parks right out the front, making it ideal for families with young skiers. The East Wing offers a variety of spacious room types which are suitable for families.
Where to Ski in Shiga Kogen?
Shiga Kogen caters to all ability levels across its 18 interconnected ski areas:
Beginner ski areas in Shiga Kogen: Try the gentle slopes at Maruike, Hasuike and Yakebitaiyama. These areas offer wide, forgiving runs and access to English-speaking ski lessons.
Intermediate ski areas in Shiga Kogen: Ichinose and Higashitateyama offer cruisy blue runs and tree-lined trails perfect for confident intermediate riders.
Advanced ski areas in Shiga Kogen: Okushiga Kogen and Terakoya boast steeper terrain, powder bowls and long descents, along with limited off-piste tree skiing.
Terrain Parks in Shiga Kogen: Ichinose Diamond area includes a snow park with jumps and rails for freestyle enthusiasts.
The lift pass covers all areas and inter-resort connections are possible via skis and lifts during the day.
Our Teams Recommendations for Skiing in Shiga Kogen:
Yvi: The snow quality in Shiga Kogen in amazing. It’s really fluffy and soft, the snow is very easy to ride in any area.
Ash: The beginner area in Shiga Kogen was great! The ski school had English speaking instructors who were very patient and awesome.
Grace: You will never ski the some run twice in Shiga Kogen! I really enjoyed the ski-in, ski-out access from the Prince Hotel East Wing, there was so many powder pockets and wide tree areas to ski through.
Is Shiga Kogen Good for Non-Skiers??
Yes, there are a few excellent non-skiing options:
Snow Monkey Park: The Jigokudani Monkey Park is a must-see, located under an hour away. Witness Japanese macaques soaking in hot springs in the snow-covered forest.
Onsen Bathing: Try traditional Japanese onsens either at your hotel or at nearby public baths such as Kanbayashi Onsen or Shibu Onsen.
Snow Parks: Maruike and Yakebitaiyama offer family-friendly snow play areas with tubing and sledding.
Snowshoeing & Scenic Walks: Some hotels can arrange snowshoe experiences in the national park.
Nightlife is low-key but there are a few izakayas, bars, and vending machines stocked with drinks for those staying in.
Our Team's Fave Things to do in Shiga Kogen:
Yvi: The Onsen in Shiga Kogen, was very nice, and a traditional experience I highly recommend. There were even some snow flakes falling into the pool which made it even more magical.
Ash: We did Snow Motor Bikes (E-Snowbikes) in Shiga Kogen. It was very fun and an activity I have never seen before! Plus being so close to the Pince Hotel made it easy to access.
Grace: A visit to the Snow Monkey Park is a must, and a short bus ride from the Prince Hotel! Getting up close to the Snow Monkeys in their natural habitat is a must do experience, and one you will never forget.
Shiga Kogen FAQs
Is Shiga Kogen suitable for families?
Yes, with gentle terrain, English-speaking ski schools, family snow parks, and ski-in ski-out hotels, it’s great for families.
Can I rent ski gear in Shiga Kogen?
Yes, rental shops are available in most villages and hotels, offering skis, snowboards, helmets, boots and outerwear. We recommend pre-booking this prior to your ski holiday.
How do I get from Tokyo to Shiga Kogen?
Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Nagano (90 minutes), then transfer via bus or pre-booked snow shuttle to Shiga Kogen (about 70 minutes).
Are there English-speaking instructors?
Yes, particularly at Okushiga Kogen and Yakebitaiyama, where English-speaking instructors are available for group and private lessons.
What is the snow like at Shiga Kogen?
Shiga Kogen gets around 10 metres of snow annually. Its high altitude (up to 2,307m) delivers dry, reliable powder throughout the season.
Is there night skiing in Shiga Kogen?
Yes, select areas such as Ichinose offer night skiing with floodlit runs.
When is the best time to visit Shiga Kogen?
Late December to early March is ideal for the best snow and lift operations. March often offers fewer crowds and great spring conditions.
Do I need a car in Shiga Kogen?
No, most villages are walkable and shuttle buses connect the ski areas during the day. Evening transport is limited, so choose accommodation with dining nearby.
TL;DR
Shiga Kogen is Japan’s largest ski resort, offering over 600 hectares of terrain across 18 interlinked areas. Ideal for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, it combines authentic Japanese charm, reliable powder, and ski-in ski-out accommodation. Families will love the snow parks and easy terrain, while advanced riders can seek out tree runs and powder stashes. With easy access from Tokyo and quiet, traditional villages, Shiga Kogen is a unique alternative to the busier ski resorts in Japan.
